Newman’s Own Foundation Recognized as Distinguished Partner

Individualized Approach Takes Student from Struggle to Success

November 19, 2024

April 11, 2022

Green Chimneys could never have thrived for 75 years without the help of thousands of individuals, foundations, and corporations over many years who have supported, and continue to support, the Green Chimneys mission. Newman’s Own Foundation has had a longstanding collaboration with Green Chimneys to bring support to children with special needs and their families—a relationship that started more than three decades ago.

Actor and Philanthropist Paul Newman and Green Chimneys Founder Sam Ross

This remarkable partnership began when our founder, Sam “Rollo” Ross, heard that actor and philanthropist Paul Newman was planning to open a camp for children with life-threatening conditions. Rollo thought he could be of some help after running a boarding school and camp for several decades, and gave Mr. Newman a call. This one phone call established a relationship between two innovative thinkers and their thriving organizations that has been invaluable.

Thanks to Newman’s Own Foundation, Green Chimneys has expanded its school and services, providing education and nature-based therapies to thousands of children. In 2010, in honor of this enduring partnership and the incredible work that the Foundation continues to provide to children and people in need throughout the world, the Green Chimneys School complex was named The Newman’s Own Education Center.

“Newman’s Own Foundation has been a welcome and valuable partner in the success of our children for more than 30 years,” states Executive Director Edward Placke. “We are truly proud and honored to recognize the Foundation as a Distinguished Partner as we celebrate our 75th Anniversary; we cannot thank them enough for all of their support.”

Sowing the Seeds for the Future

Green Chimneys 75th Anniversary Gala

May 19, 2022 • Braw Burn Country Club • Purchase, NY

Each year this event raises critical funds for innovative education and animal-assisted therapy programs for children with special needs, as well as for the care of our animal partners. Please join us for a commemorative celebration as we recognize those who have contributed to Green Chimneys’ success. Purchase tickets

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.