The Chris Center’s spring and summer programming is now open for registration. The mission is to assist teenagers with their emotional wellness through connecting them to nature.
Alpaca Program Facilitator Katrina Stewart (left) and Mackie Malinzak. (Photo provided)
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. Many teenagers in central Indiana are struggling with their mental and emotional wellbeing, 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 wellbeing of adolescents through alpaca-assisted activities. This program wrapped up its first session in October and will begin session two at the end of April. Click here to see dates, times and registration information.
(From left) Rusty, Coco, Sunny and Pepper. (Photo provided)
The Hiking Club provides kids (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. Because the mission is to promote the mental and emotional wellbeing of teens, 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 call The Chris Center CEO and Founder Nancy Elbert at (630) 363-1400.
(From left) Leona Henning, Katrina Stewart, Abbie Smith, Sierra Neidlinger and Mackie Malinzak. (Photo provided)
About The Chris Center
The Chris Center’s mission is to promote the mental and emotional wellbeing of teenagers in central Indiana by connecting them with nature and the healing power of human-animal interaction. The Chris Center’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.