Winds of Change: A weekend work program 

Who do we serve?

At-risk teenagers from the ages of 12 to 17  

What are the hours of operation?

This program is a work program (currently operating on weekends)  that began in July 2001.  The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

What is the purpose of the program?

The program was designed to be an immediate cause and effect provision of a negative consequence for adjudicated youth as well as a deterrent for future delinquency. 

Where is the program located?

The program is currently held at a non-profit organization providing a no-kill shelter for rescued animals, including horse, dogs, and other animals that have been abused, abandoned or neglected. 

Who is responsible for running the program?

Rebecca Carey, the Director of Crossroads Foundation, Inc., Linda Musgrave, our Core Volunteer Supervisor, and additional volunteer supervisors conducts the program.  A background check from the county is mandatory for any volunteer. 

How many teens do we serve?

The program will serve 12-15 teens a weekend and will provide services for a minimum of 45 weekends of 16 hours a weekend for each.  The total amount of hours served should range from 8640 to 10,800 hours served.  The total amount of teens served should range from 540 to 675.  

How are we supported?

Currently, the county pays for our services monthly through the process of a grant.  The money is used to help support the shelter and supplies needed, plus the training received to get the Level One certification.  At some point we hope to have the money to cover all of the expenses and possibly hire staff.  There is no fee to participants or their families.

Additional Information:

·         This program is a pass/fail program.  The teen is given a list of rules and regulations along with an example of a report card.

·         The teen will experience an equine assisted psychotherapy exercise on both days by a horseman with a minimum of a Level One certification.  These exercises often provide the supervisors with an understanding of how the teen thinks and responds to various situations.  The primary purpose for these exercises is to aid in developing additional skills such as trust, cooperation, leadership and communication. 

·         Although this program was created to provide a consequence to delinquent behavior, it adds a therapeutic aspect by utilizing rescued animals as well as the outdoor farm atmosphere.

The program would be held at Crossroads, which provides a no-kill shelter for rescued, and farm animals that have been abused, abandoned or neglected.