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Green Chimneys

Internship Program

Explore a world of possibilities, discover new skills, and meet new people through a truly rewarding experience at one of the most innovative facilities for education and treatment of children with special needs.

The Henry J. and Erna D. Leir Global Internship Program

The Sam and Myra Ross Institute at Green Chimneys

Build a future in the field of HAI. The Henry J. and Erna D. Leir Global Internship Program offers a unique immersion experience for individuals interested in exploring the human-animal bond and nature-based activities to benefit children with special needs. This hands-on opportunity takes place in Green Chimneys’ enriched and supportive environment where students receive individualized therapeutic education and clinical services.

The Leir Internship can serve as a supplementary practicum in training for a career in Social Work, Psychology, Education, Veterinary Science, Animal Care and Program Administration. There is no academic pre-requisite.

VIEW THE INTERNSHIP GUIDE

Our program in Putnam County, NY serves 240 children in residential care or day treatment where a professional treatment team of medical staff, social workers, teachers and childcare professionals are supported by experts in animal-assisted activities, horticulture education, outdoor education and nature-based life skills training. At our Brewster Campus, the Farm & Wildlife Center is home to over 300 farm animals, horses, and permanently injured wildlife. Our Clearpool Campus in Carmel, NY serves day students in a smaller program environment on an extensive property surrounded by woodlands. Institute Interns also interact with children and families through public programs and special events open to all community members.

Program Schedule

The Leir Internship is a full-time, 4- or 8-month commitment in designated sessions that take place at set times of the year. Interns work five days a week and also participate in occasional weekend activities and events. Exact dates vary, depending on the Green Chimneys agency calendar.

Farm Animal, Equine, and Wildlife program tracks

January – August (interview in October)
September – December (interview in May)

Garden Education track

January – November (interview in October)

International Applicants

January – December (interview in May)
September – August (interview in January)

Choose your track

What Our Interns Say

The Leadership and Legacy of Henry J. and Erna D. Leir

The Leir Foundation has supported Green Chimneys for decades. Furthering the legacies of its founders, Henry J. and Erna D. Leir, the foundation has been and continues to be, integral in the success of Green Chimneys and this internship program. The leadership of the Leirs and the support of The Leir Foundation is reinforcing the future of human-animal interaction.

Meet Our Animals
gyr

Gyrfalcon

Crowned the best for falconry in medieval times, gyrfalcons were once reserved for kings. As the largest falcon in the world, with exquisite plumage ranging from bright white to deep charcoal, gyrs are revered for their powerful skill of flight. Their long wings make hunting waterfowl from 3,000-feet-high a feasible and fantastical feat. This falcon was flown in the sport of falconry for several years.