As a facilitator for programs dealing with at-risk teens and rescued animals, Crossroads Foundation, Inc. is faced with a new challenge created by today’s economy. For over 8 years, Crossroads has provided a natural therapeutic intervention for teenagers 12-17, disguised as a consequence to negative behavior.  Working around animals, coupled with an outdoor component has proved to be an idea that really works.

Assigned by the juvenile court, the teens attend the program during the day from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturdays and Sundays year round, rain or shine. Their tasks are to walk, brush, and bathe dogs, clean out chicken coups, muck horse stalls, clean out all food and water containers, rake leaves, and other tasks when necessary. Instead of being inside and possibly grounded all day long, they are put to work, and work it is. In the beginning, the plan was to provide a consequence to negative behavior however, in most cases; teens found a positive experience taking place.

A drastic cut of funding from our primary source has left us wondering how we will feed the animals that provide the interactions necessary for our programs.  Our needs are varied, but consist mostly of food for the animals.  If you would like to know more about our programs or how to help out, please contact Becki Jo Sowers at 770.843.8001 or e-mail her at info@crossroadsfoundation.net. Crossroads Foundation Inc. is a 501(C)(3) charitable organization and all contributions are tax deductible.