The Chris Center, 1721 Wood Valley Drive, Carmel, has added additional programming to assist teenagers with their emotional wellness through connecting them to nature. A 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2020, The Chris Center offers an innovative approach to teen wellness by connecting adolescents to nature and providing opportunities for human-animal interaction.
Kothe Birge and Maxine Birge are greeted by The Chris Center’s four-member alpaca team. (Photo provided)
Many teenagers in Central Indiana are struggling with their mental and emotional well-being, and The Chris Center strives to be part of the solution. The organization’s programs are based on research demonstrating the health and wellness benefits of interacting with animals and participating in farming activities. These benefits include improved self-esteem and mood, increased social interaction, and decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- The Alpaca Adventure Program is designed to promote the mental, emotional, and social well-being of adolescents through alpaca-assisted activities. This program wrapped up its first session in October and will begin session two in the spring.
- The Hiking Club provides teenagers (ages 12 to 19) the opportunity to explore nature, practice mindfulness, and connect with peers.
- The Parent Education Series objective is to offer support and information for parents raising adolescents. The Chris Center’s mission is to promote the mental and emotional well-being of teens, and supporting parents and families is critical to that mission.
Registration and additional information can be found at chriscenterpaws.com. For additional information or questions, please contact The Chris Centers CEO and Founder Nancy Elbert at (630) 363-1400.
About The Chris Center
The Chris Center’s mission is to promote the mental and emotional well-being of teenagers in Central Indiana by connecting them with nature and the healing power of human-animal interaction. The organization’s vision includes bringing the first care farm for teen wellness to Central Indiana. The idea behind a care farm is that mental and emotional wellbeing can be improved by connecting to nature, interacting with animals and participating in farm activities. The concept is well accepted in Europe, and research supports the mental health benefits associated with care farming. The Chris Center Inc. is a registered nonprofit, headquartered in Indiana.
Teens can also clear their minds on a hike through the woods. (Photo provided)