IFI-CIC EcoTherapy programs combine conventional and alternative therapy methods with a strong emphasis on the beneficial human-animal bond. The term 'Eco-Therapy' is used to describe a daily schedule of work, study & social integration incorporating Animal Assisted Therapy and Therapeutic Riding in a relaxing rural environment. Additional focal points are arts, sports & music.

Recognizing that diversity is one of the American community's greatest assets, IFI-CIC offers a model of non-judgmental, multi-voiced therapeutic methods that emphasize the importance of individualism & multiplicity. This technique, devoid of any agenda to “convert” the participants to a particular way of life or practice, has enormous potential to help the current generation of young at-risk populations. Furthermore, by encouraging participants to include an understanding of the 'other' in the development of their 'self,' the IFI-CIC method can make a unique contribution to the enrichment of today's community. 

Great efforts are now being made to meet funding requirements for the new IFI-CIC EcoCenter, a safe-haven for at-risk children and teens in upstate NY. The EcoCenter will augment traditional methods employed by medical and therapeutic professionals, educators and state community services, by providing Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT); Animal Assisted Activities (AAA); Equestrian Therapy; and live-in vocational opportunities for at-risk children & youth.

AAT & AAA received substantial recognition in the 1988 NIH Report, and practitioners continue to supply evidence of the positive outcomes from integrating animals into the therapeutic and recreational settings of children with behavioral or emotional disorders.

Examples of such remarkably successful programs are those run by the Green Chimney’s Farm and the Delta Society. The latter outlines eleven potential benefits that therapists and clients may derive from animal-assisted interactions: empathy, outward focus, nurturing, development of rapport, acceptance, entertainment, socialization, mental stimulation, physical contact, physiological, and socio-spiritual enrichment.

Animals can serve as friends, a source of confidence, comfort & support. The bond formed with the animal enables a reliable, securely attached relationship, strengthening physical and emotional stability - an important factor in establishing future relationships based on affection and trust. Animals can smooth communication between a child and a therapist, while demonstrating the model of a living creature with needs, thoughts and emotions that the child can relate to.

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