Zoe Ciarametaro

Program Coordinator

Andi Bernans

Program Coordinator

Andi graduated from Penn State in 2023 with a Bachelors degree in Human Development and Family Studies. They’ve lived in DE most of their life, and PA for a year while working at their local Trader Joe’s. Andi’s favorite pastimes include reading, hiking, paddling, and rock climbing! They also love to spend time with their cat, Ethel, who is a very sweet girl. A fun fact about Andi is that they love scary movies, and collecting strange and unusual trinkets

Program Coordinator

Lisa Gardner

Recreation Special Activities Coordinator

Karim Chapman

Overnight Support Staff

Leandro Pedrosa

Program Coordinator

Overnight Support Staff

Program Coordinator

Brian Hummer

Program Coordinator

Brian comes to us as a PC from Boulder, CO. He most recently worked as a patient access coordinator and has also managed the recreation department at First Light Resorts in Groveland, CA. He has a BS in Business Administration with a Marketing major from Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA; a Bachelor of Arts in English, and a minor in Film Studies. He is an active member of Lambda Chi Alpha and Alpha Phi Omega.

Program Coordinator

Jessie Foley

Program Coordinator

Curt Hoffman

Evening Shift Supervisor

Most recently a Residential Counselor at The Howard Center in Rutland, with a BS from Elon University in Integrative Biology, Curt is the Ranch’s Evening Shift Supervisor.

Chris Colm

Case Manager

(he/him) Chris joined Spring Lake Ranch in 2007 as an Independent Apartment Living Case Manager and has continued to serve clients in this position ever since. Before coming to the Ranch, Chris worked for 15 years as head of a large dairy at another therapeutic farm community in Pennsylvania. It was there that Chris realized that his calm, caring, and empathetic nature is helpful to the people he works with. Chris built his own Green Mountain home almost three decades ago when he was a single parent of his two daughters and has lived there ever since. When Chris is not working you may find him, depending on the season, riding his mountain bike in the local woods or cross-country skiing in the nearby wilderness area of the Green Mountain National Forest.

Alex Schoch

Program Coordinator Supervisor

Paddy Martin

Facilities Technician

Joann Bradley

Housekeeper

Austin Osborne

Facilities Technician

BS, Forestry, Colorado State University; AS Sustainable Agriculture Austin grew up in Iowa and after a short stint in the Army, he found himself in Colorado until they moved to Vermont in 2021. Prior to his time at the Ranch, he worked in the bicycle industry and with multiple federal agencies in conservation and law enforcement. Whilst not at work, Austin enjoys exploring nature with his wife and dogs, riding singletrack and bikepacking, and tinkering with projects in the garage.

Ray Pratt

Facilities Technician

Forestry, Plant and Soil Science Ray joined the Spring Lake Ranch team in 2016 and previously served as manager of the Ranch’s Shop Crew. Ray also serves as a Resident Advocate. He was previously a self-employed Carpenter and Farm Manager for a youth employment training program. He resides in Tinmouth with his wife. He takes pride in being a father of three and grandfather of four!

Hattie Hevrin

Facilities Administrative Coordinator

Rachel Stark

Executive Director

MBA, Corporate Finance; Fordham University BA, Economics; Fordham College Rachel came to the Ranch after a 16-year career in finance in the New York Metropolitan area. After her own struggles with addiction and related mental health issues, Rachel was hired in 2007 as a House Advisor and hasn’t left since. Rachel took over the responsibility of admissions in 2009, became Director of Operations in 2019, then moved into the Executive Director position in 2022. She is a passionate believer in our model of work therapy and community. Rachel lives on the hill, and can often be found paddle boarding on Spring Lake as soon as it gets moderately warm out.

Nathan Hewitt

Logistics Manager

BS, Forestry; Paul Smith’s College Before joining Spring Lake Ranch in 2012, Nathan was a self-employed logger and carpenter for 15 years. Outside of his time at the Ranch, he enjoys running a family maple syrup operation and spending time outdoors with his wife and kids.

Kelly McCracken

Assistant Chef

Hello, Friends. I’m a tall dude from Oklahoma. I’m married to Rose. I was a debate, speech, and philosophy teacher for 20+ years at an amazing high school (Booker T. Washington) in Tulsa. Loved every minute of it. BUT, it’s time for something new and I’m going to put my passion for cooking and service to work in SLR’s kitchen. I’m a big fan of biscuits, BBQ, and pizza. I play tennis. I make furniture. And I am a news/politics junkie.

Cathy Johnson

Food Services Manager

Cathy went to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. She started her career in country clubs and various restaurants. Prior to the Ranch, Cathy was a food service director and head chef at Equinox Terrace, a prestigious assisted living facility in Manchester, VT. Coming to the Ranch has truly been an inspiring and unique learning experience, working with much younger residents and acclimating to their menu likes and dislikes! When she’s not at the Ranch, Cathy enjoys spending her summers on her boat on Lake Bomoseen with her husband Josh and two fur babies Gracey and Stella, both Boston Terriers. During fall and winter months, she enjoys going to professional football games. Her husband turned her into a Minnesota Vikings fan. Besides home games in Minnesota, Cathy and Josh enjoy taking in culture and football at other football stadiums around the country. When the football season is over, they enjoy taking cruises throughout the Caribbean.

Harold “Hal” Niblack

Driver/Recovery Coach

A Desert Storm Army Veteran, Hal came to Spring Lake Ranch after a career in Adult Community Justice. In his former role as a liaison between the jails and the courts, he witnessed how devastating addiction and related mental health issues can be to everyone they touch. He worked closely with individuals and their families to help them navigate difficult circumstances. Hal always understood the past, does not define the future, and there is hope in recovery. Hal enjoys music, sports, the outdoors, and animals, especially his two “Faux Frenchies”, Bennie & the Jax. His gentle, friendly nature ensures he has never met a stranger, always embracing opportunities to connect with people and learn more about them

Erin Barber

Administrative Assistant

BS, Recreation Management; University of Vermont Erin joined the Spring Lake Ranch community after working in both therapeutic recreation environments as well as camp-based settings. She has always believed that inner peace can be found through both nature and recreation; both of which have helped her on her own mental health journey. Erin is a certified yoga instructor who favors teaching both original hot and yin yoga. When not at the Ranch or in the yoga studio, she enjoys open-water swimming, reading, and spending time kayaking and traveling with her family.

Jennifer Haskins

Administrative Coordinator

Jenn has several years of experience in retail management, operation management, and customer service. Focusing on business management and finance in college, Jenn took a real-life approach to gain experience in several types of businesses. She will provide assistance to both the Business Office and Human Resource Department in their day-to-day operations. Although Jenn has great talent in the business management area, her passion is working, riding and, teaching others about horses. Jenn received her certification in Equine Massage Therapy and Kinesiology Tape application and started her own business in 2019. She hopes to bring her knowledge of the equine world to Spring Lake Ranch and those interested in learning how to build a relationship with horses.

Rita Francisco

Outreach Manager

Jennifer Pryslak

HR Manager

Jennifer comes to the ranch with 20 years of human resources experience, a pre-HR career in art and design, and a certificate in health and wellness coaching from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN). She has worked in a variety of industries including hospitality, the trades, and most recently, mental health and non-profit as an HR leader. She felt instantly connected to Spring Lake Ranch when she visited, and is thrilled to be able to offer human resources support to the organization. Things that bring joy to her life are nurturing her creative and artistic side, sharing that side with others, a good road trip to anywhere she’s never been before, gardening (without a road map), and spending time with her family.

Anna Sutton

Development and Communications Manager

MEd, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, North Carolina State University; MFA, Creative Writing, Poetry, University of North Carolina Wilmington; BFA, Art Education, Painting, Tennessee Technological University/Appalachian Center for Craft (she/her) In 2022, Anna joined the Ranch, bringing along with her a diverse educational and professional background. She has worked in nonprofit administration, education, literary publishing, and most recently, she worked as an administrator and fundraiser in the UNC System. A Nashville native, Anna is also a published poet and licensed therapist.

Leslie Sall

Admissions and Operations Manager

Jackie Osborne

Transitions Manager

BA, Business Management, Buena Vista University Jackie is an Iowa native who moved to Vermont from Colorado. Prior to her time at the Ranch, she worked in the healthcare industry including primary care, eye care, and most recently gastroenterology. She felt drawn to SLR because of its unique approach to mental illness, with its focus on outdoors, work-centered therapy, and community. She is eager to be a part of the team, and to learn and become a resource for those struggling to find their place. Outside of work, Jackie enjoys exploring the outdoors, being amongst loved ones, and reading.

Jill Loeber

Finance Manager

The Katharine Gibbs School Jill came to the Ranch in 2004 and worked in the front office before moving to the Business Office where she spent the next eight years. When the Rutland Program was reorganized in 2013, Jill moved into town to co-lead the Rutland Program and manage our transitional home on Royce Street. Recently, she has returned to the Hill and is now the Business Manager. Jill resides in Rutland with her long-time partner and has two adult children.

Loretta Fermin

Gardens Crew Assistant

Loretta grew up right down the road from Spring Lake Ranch. Her family did a lot of farming and gardening, where she learned about food preservation and baking. She served in the military and did a tour in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Cuba. She later earned a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology and began volunteering in many different nonprofit organizations. Since moving back to Vermont in 2015, Loretta worked at a substance abuse treatment facility before joining the Ranch. She enjoys empowering residents with the knowledge and love of cooking. In her free time, she enjoys swimming, roller-skating, baking for others, and hiking with her dog, Charlie.

Rose McCracken

Development and Communications Director

BA, Arts Management, University of Tulsa. Rose McCracken moved to Vermont from Oklahoma in 2023 to join Spring Lake Ranch as Development Director. She has more than 15 years of experience raising funds for nonprofits from arts organizations to human service agencies. She has also ten years of experience owning and operating a small farm and community center. She believes in the inherent healing that comes from being outdoors, surrounded by nature and looks forward to working with the SLR team to create new opportunities for future residents.

Alfred Henderson

Woods Crew Assistant

Olivia Mancivalano

Farm Crew Assistant

Nathan Frazier

Woods Crew Manager

AAS in Forest Technology and BS in Criminal Justice Nathan has worked, lived, and traveled in a thousand and one places, but grew up close to Vermont and the Ranch. He recently bought a home in Shrewsbury with his fiancé, where they own and operate a Xmas tree farm, have two young boys, and enjoy spending as much time outside as possible.

Benjamin Price

Shop Crew Manager

Benjamin began learning to work with his hands as a child, sailing and repairing wooden boats. His father’s hand tools were often his toys. Living and working on the Atlantic until he was 30, he found within himself a deep love and respect for the forces of Nature. After two years studying Physics and Visual Arts at Yale University, he dropped out and returned to the boat building shop. Through his 20’s he descended into major depression and severe alcoholism. After attempts at sobriety, and several institutions, he became a Resident of the Ranch in 1999, and stayed for most of a year. At the Ranch he found a safe refuge in a dependable, compassionate, and patient community. It was not until 2 years later, after the birth of his daughter Eliza, that he was able to find Recovery and accept medical help for his mental illness. Making a home in Southern Vermont for the last 22 years, he has put all his energy into being a father, while working for himself as a carpenter. He has been active in 12 Step Recovery programs, and mentoring people as they struggle to care for themselves and their mental illness. Running the Shop at the Ranch has been his dream job for a few years.

Ella Hayslett-Ubell

Gardens Crew Manager

Ella was born and raised in Vermont, and has always spent as many hours as possible with her hands in the dirt growing food. After studying neuroscience and then working in community mental health for several years, she pursued certification as a horticultural therapist, deepening her understanding of how to share her love of gardening with people as a healing modality. She first came to the Ranch in 2020 as a program coordinator and spent the majority of her year here on garden crew, witnessing the immense power of collectively working and growing food for the community. When she left, she went to work on a family-run vegetable farm to continue to grow her knowledge about organic, regenerative, and productive farming practices in Vermont so that she could one day run a program like the garden crew at Spring Lake Ranch – her dream job. Most recently she worked with unaccompanied teens in an emergency intake shelter at the southern border in Texas as a horticultural therapist, and as a middle school teacher in her hometown. She is thrilled to return to the Ranch, this time in her dream role, to once again participate in the healing and empowering act of working with the land in community, growing beautiful and nutritious food to eat together.

Carl Mancivalano

Farm Crew Manager

Carl joined Spring Lake Ranch in 2015 and oversees all aspects of its farming, including daily care of the animals, haying, grooming, and much more. Carl has years of experience working in both St. Thomas (Virgin Islands) and at a family farm in Southern Vermont, just to name a few! Carl enjoys educating residents and staff alike about the animals that call the Ranch home, including sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, chickens, turkeys, and llamas. Carl resides at the Ranch and enjoys spending time with his children.

Allison Filepp MS, RD, RYT200

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

MS, Nutrition & Health Promotion, Didactic Program in Dietetics, Simmons College. BA, English Literature & Studio Art, Providence College. Allison Filepp is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Registered Yoga Teacher with a master’s degree in Nutrition and Health Promotion from Simmons University. Allison specializes in Food and Mood, providing education and nutrition counseling to help clients eat in a way that supports optimal mental health. In addition to providing individual nutrition counseling for clients, Allison facilitates a weekly Food and Mood group, delving into the science behind how what we eat can affect our mental health and providing practical tools and tips to utilize this knowledge in daily life. Outside of the office, Allison’s favorite activities include practicing and teaching yoga, traveling, practicing her five languages, reading, or playing with her dog and cat.

Rebecca C. Hunke, LCMHC, LADC

Consulting Clinician

Rebecca C. Hunke, LCMHC, LADCMS, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling, College of St. Joseph, Rutland, VT. BS, English, State University of New York at Brockport Mental Health Counselor, Alcohol and Drug Counselor “Becky” first worked with the ranch in 2014. She works with the ranch as an individual and group counselor. Specialties include: Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing), Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and working with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. She has worked with Rutland Regional Medical Center and Rutland Mental Health Services.

Tomás Browne

Consulting Clinician

MS Clinical Psychology 2005 (St. Joseph’s College) Level II certified in EMDR Tomas has been working in the field since 1997. His early years were in residential work. After completing his degree, he worked at the local psychiatric inpatient unit and as a crisis clinician. Since 2008, he has been working, in a collaborative practice with Dr. FauntLeRoy, with people struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, self-acceptance, and especially with the impact of trauma on coping with life challenges. He tailors his approach to a wide range of capacities for insight. In his own words, “My style is highly communicative and collaborative with each client I see, and I believe that anyone who is appropriately challenged and supported can work through problematic issues and attain greater well-being.”

Amanda Wood, MSW

Consulting Clinician

MSW, Master of Social Work, Brescia University. BSW, Bachelor of Social Work, Brescia University. I am grateful to work with such a cohesive team, dedicated to supporting residents in a stabilizing community environment. I believe that everyone has their own story that shapes who they are and contributes to how they learn to cope with different situations. Sometimes these coping skills may have been necessary early on but are no longer useful. During my sessions, we look at these kinds of things and the emotions that surround them. I also help people work on other things like reflecting on their interactions with others and social skills building. I use specialized method for helping ease the pain of traumatic events. Therapy looks different for many people depending on their needs and situations so I find it is very important to tailor the type of therapy to the needs of the resident. I enjoy being a part of the journey with residents as they get community support in a diverse and supportive program.

Liz Walz

Med Room Assistant

MA in Depth Psychology; Doctoral Candidate in Depth Psychology with Specialization in Jungian and Archetypal Studies. Liz came to the Ranch for a 6-month position in August 2022 and stayed. Past work experience includes nine years as Executive Director of a spiritual retreat center; Liz continues to offer individual spiritual direction and facilitate group retreats. She is passionate about dreams, our bodily felt senses, and imagination. Liz holds certifications in Kripalu-Iyengar yoga, Kripalu Massage Therapy, Ayurveda for Self-Care, NonViolence Training, BioSpiritual Focusing, and Dream Tending. At the Ranch, Liz has become entranced with the community, lake, trails, farm and woodland animals and birds, clay studio, wood shop, and various kitchens.

Bonnie Hanley

Manager of Nursing Services

Bonnie Hanley, MSN, RN-BC has lived in Vermont since 2014. She earned a BSN from Regis College in Weston Massachusetts and MSN in Nursing Leadership and Management at Walden University. She has been devoted to psychiatric mental health nursing for her entire 37-year career. Before coming to Spring Lake Ranch, she served as an Associate Professor of Nursing at Vermont State University for 10 years where she taught psychiatric mental health nursing in the BSN program. She is ANCC certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse. “Spring Lake Ranch provides the best care I have ever experienced, and I am happy to be a part of it.”

Ruthie Tenenbaum

Care Coordinator

Born and raised in Vermont, Ruthie attended UVM for a BA in psychology and a minor in Sociology. Ruthie has worked in community mental health, substance abuse treatment, and developmental services within Rutland County and Burlington for the last 13 years. Previously working in a psychiatric hospital setting, she witnessed the different approaches to treatment and difficulties upon discharge. Upon learning of the Ranch, she was immediately drawn to its model of care and programming. She is passionate about providing supports that will meet people ‘where they are’ and help to reach goals that are realistic and meaningful. In spare time, some things Ruthie enjoy are caring for houseplants, poetry, reading, animals, being outside in the sun, and spending time with her family. She is excited and proud to be a new part of this community.

Becky Day, LICSW

Clinician

(she/her) MSW, Master of Social Work from the University of South Florida, Tampa FL. BA in Psychology from Eckerd College, St. Petersburg FL. Becky comes to the ranch after 14 years in various roles within community mental health and 6 years in private practice. She has worked extensively with at-risk adolescents and young adults as well as their families. Becky also has previous experience with youth in the juvenile justice system, child welfare and refugees escaping war-torn countries to resettle in the United States. After a decade living in Florida, she decided to take an opportunity to go to Nepal for a year and be part of a grassroots effort to create a counseling program for a rural school of 350+ children. She is an ally of LGBTQIA+ individuals and confident in working with clients exploring their gender expression and sexual identity. She is thrilled to be part of the ranch and have the opportunity to work in such a beautiful environment and be part of an incredible team. Things that bring joy to her life are opportunities to be outside, spending time with her pup Kodie (who traveled back with her from Nepal), hiking, traveling, rock climbing, and paddleboarding.

Derrick Cline, LPC-PA

Clinician

MS Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling; University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill: School of Medicine. BS Forensic Sociology/Religious Studies; Rosemont College. Derrick joined the Ranch in late 2022 as a serendipitous fulfillment of his dream job. Derrick has previously worked in vocational rehabilitation, community mental health, and in both forensic and medical settings in therapeutic capacities. He believes strongly in a person-centered and individualized approach to recovery and healing. Derrick is passionate about meeting individuals where they are in their journey and helping them discover the next steps. He is drawn to the therapeutic aspects of the great outdoors and constructive work; as well as the chance to learn from each person that we work with. Every day on the Ranch is an opportunity to discover new passions and learn from each other. Derrick loves animals, Harry Potter, hiking, cooking, Philadelphia sports, and above all else: his dog Lilo. Look for him and his dog wandering around the woods or getting their hands dirty on work crew!

Cynthia Hanson, LADC

Senior Clinician

MA, Mental Health Counseling; Johnson State College MA, Transformative Art; John F. Kennedy University Graduate Certificate in Dream Studies; John F. Kennedy University BA, Writing and Literature, Transpersonal Psychology; Burlington College Cynthia is drawn to residential treatment because of the “it takes a village” approach to helping individuals with mental health and substance abuse challenges. Everything is therapeutic at the Ranch, from a range of crews offering structure, skills, and meaningful work to the building of relationships with peers and staff; from informal in-the-moment mentoring to scheduled therapy. The Ranch excels at caring on many levels and in many forms, and Cynthia is glad to be a part of a community of staff that all bring their unique experience and areas of expertise. She has previously worked as a clinical director and private practitioner.

Donny Grenier, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Consulting Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Donny Grenier is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with almost a decade of mental health experience. Several of those years have been at Spring Lake Ranch in various capacities. Donny holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Castleton University and a Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration from Norwich University. Donny is dedicated to promoting holistic wellness and recovery for individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Drawing upon a deep-rooted belief in the power of person-centered care, Donny’s approach to treatment is firmly grounded in the recovery model, emphasizing the individual’s strengths, resilience, and capacity for personal growth. His experience spans a diverse range of mental health settings including inpatient psychiatric units, residential therapeutic communities, and outpatient care. Throughout his career, he has focused on providing comprehensive, evidence-based care, tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Donny’s commitment to holistic wellness extends beyond clinical practice, as he actively engages in professional development opportunities and regularly participates in community initiatives to promote mental health wellness.

Jennifer FauntLeRoy, MD

Consulting Psychiatrist

M.D. New York University School of Medicine; M.A. Johns Hopkins University; A.B Goucher College Dr. FauntLeRoy has been the consulting psychiatrist for Spring Lake Ranch since 2006, during which time she also operated her own private practice in nearby Rutland. Prior to that, she served as the Medical Director for the Psychiatric Services Unit at Rutland Regional Medical Center, had a partnership practice in Boston, and was the Staff Psychiatrist at Tri-City Community Mental Health in Malden, Massachusetts. She completed her psychiatry residency at St. Elizabeth’s of Boston. Dr. FauntLeRoy is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the Vermont Psychiatric Society.

Heather Hildebrant, LICSW

Program Director

MBA Ball State University, MSW, Simmons University, BA Psychology and BS Rehabilitation Counseling and Human Services, Boston University. (she/her) Heather brings extensive experience in mental health to the Ranch, with a background that spans residential, school-based, and community settings. Her clinical work is grounded in trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based approaches. She has a special appreciation for the milieu model, where every individual—staff and resident alike—plays a meaningful role in the healing community. As a leader, Heather is passionate about building collaborative, cohesive teams and fostering a culture of shared purpose. Outside of work, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, reading, crossword puzzles and word games, and discovering new places through travel. She’s also a passionate Philadelphia Eagles fan—Go Birds!

Lynn J. Pilcher

Director of Quality Assurance

MA, Counseling Psychology; Antioch University New England BA, Psychology; St. Olaf College Lynn served as Spring Lake Ranch’s Assistant Director from 2002-2014, provided leadership as Interim Director in 2006 and 2014, and eventually became Executive Director in June 2014 until passing on the reins in January 2019 to Interim Director, Graham Parker. During her tenure as Assistant Director Lynn oversaw the coordination of all resident care including psychiatric services, resident advising, and nursing. Seeing a greater need for clinical support for residents and families, she was integral in the expansion of clinical services while Executive Director and helped to establish the highly successful bi-annual Family Weekend. It is Lynn’s belief that the integration of meaningful work, clinical expertise, and community support create the optimal opportunity for recovery to occur. Starting in 2019 Lynn now oversees quality assurance and program improvement, risk management, and outcomes for the organization. She is also the lead on preparing the organization for international certification through CARF.

Kevin Molloy

Director of Operations and Admissions

BA, Economics; Castleton University (he/him) Kevin joined the Ranch in 2017 and worked for two years as a House Advisor/Assistant Farm Manager before transitioning into the Admissions role in 2019. Since 2022, he has been serving as the Director of Operations & Admissions and manages much of the day to day here at the Ranch. Kevin originally arrived at the Ranch in early 2015 as a resident after struggling with his own addiction and mental health related issues. He knows first-hand the healing power of our program and is motivated to pay it forward. Kevin has a golden retriever named Cooper that you are bound to run into either in his office or on one of our many hiking trails around the Ranch.

Alan Barber

Cook

Alan has been cooking for 16 years. He enjoys and takes pride in his work. He is married and is in the process of adopting his two foster children. He enjoys kayaking, spending time by the water, yoga, hiking, and other adventures, as well as trying different restaurants.

Strategic Plan

2025-2030

Executive Summary

Spring Lake Ranch Therapeutic Community (SLR), a 700-acre nonprofit residential treatment program, has been serving individuals with mental health and substance use challenges since 1932. The 2025-2030 Spring Lake Ranch Strategic Plan outlines initiatives to expand SLR’s program offerings, improve marketing outreach, and promote financial sustainability. A key focus is the development of the Transitional Living Program (TLP), an innovative approach to longer-term, supportive housing for residents transitioning out of more intensive residential care.

The following objectives guide SLR’s efforts over the next five years:

Infrastructure Upgrade and Expansion: Invest in facility renovations, including the construction of a 12-bed Transitional Living Program (TLP), a new community center, and expanded farm facilities to better support therapeutic and sustainability initiatives.
Expand and Improve the Continuum of Care: Strengthen clinical integration with work-based therapy, introduce phased treatment tracks, and enhance transition support with individualized length-of-stay options and new vocational services.
Increase and Stabilize Census: Drive census growth through strategic digital marketing, referral network expansion, and partnerships with hospitals, treatment centers, and community organizations. Enhance public awareness with a comprehensive public relations strategy to position SLR as a national leader in work-based mental health recovery.
Expand Access through Financial Aid: Double financial aid availability by 2030 to ensure affordability particularly for marginalized populations. Develop a comprehensive funding plan incorporating diverse funding streams and partnerships to support long-term financial stability.
Recruitment and Retention of Staff: Address staffing challenges by offering competitive salaries, expanding staff housing options, fostering professional development, and enhancing staff well-being initiatives.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship: Strengthen environmental practices by implementing energy-efficient upgrades, promoting food sustainability, and involvement of entire SLR community in eco-conscious projects which align with SLR’s values.
Enhance Technology and Data Management: Modernize technology to improve operational efficiency and resident outcomes through advanced data analytics, expanded telehealth capabilities, and improved electronic health records (EHR) systems.

The strategic plan initiatives and long-term financial sustainability goals will be, in part, supported by a 3-year $18 million capital campaign. With $14.9 million already raised in the early part of the campaign, SLR is well positioned to meet its strategic plan goals and objectives. By 2030, SLR aims to be a national leader in farm-based work-therapy programs for mental health recovery.

Spring Lake Ranch Therapeutic Community (SLR), located in Cuttingsville, Vermont, founded in 1932 by Wayne and Elizabeth Sarcka, provides a unique blend of therapeutic work programs, community engagement, and clinical care to support individuals with serious mental health and substance use challenges. At its core, SLR fosters a deep sense of community, where residents, staff, and volunteers live and work together, creating an environment of mutual support and shared experiences.

SLR operates as a nonprofit organization, generating revenue through resident fees, donations, and an endowment fund. SLR’s community-centered approach emphasizes the importance of collaboration and relationships in the healing process. Daily communal activities such as shared meals, group work projects, and recreational events strengthen the bonds between residents, staff, and the surrounding community, creating a supportive atmosphere where individuals can feel valued and understood.

SLR’s expansive 700-acre campus includes residential housing, a working farm, a woodshop, hiking trails, and recreational facilities. This natural setting, combined with work-based therapy and community involvement, offers residents the opportunity to reconnect with the land, engage in meaningful work, and develop a sense of belonging. Through these experiences, residents build self-confidence, responsibility, and independence, all within the nurturing framework of the therapeutic community.

This strong emphasis on community living is a cornerstone of the Ranch’s philosophy, as it helps residents not only in their individual healing journeys but also in developing life skills, empathy, and connections that they can carry with them as they transition to greater independence.

Mission Statement

“Spring Lake Ranch Therapeutic Community supports and empowers people with mental health and substance use challenges by providing opportunities to grow and thrive. Through shared experience, meaningful work, and active participation in an accepting, inclusive community, we help each person develop the confidence and skills needed for recovery.”

Vision Statement

Spring Lake Ranch will be the nation’s leading farm-based therapeutic community, providing adults with mental health and addiction challenges with a nurturing, nature-centered environment where healing, growth, and recovery are fostered through meaningful work, clinical expertise and a compassionate, connected community.

Community

Community is at the core of our mission—whether in work, recreation, therapy, or shared meals. It is a foundational principle that guides every aspect of our program and culture, fostering a keen sense of belonging and mutual support.

Connection to Land

Nestled in the Green Mountains of Vermont, Spring Lake Ranch is deeply rooted in its natural surroundings. Our programs and activities are centered around a meaningful relationship with the land, encouraging residents to engage in and appreciate the environment as an integral part of their healing journey.

Growth

At the Ranch, both residents and staff undergo significant personal and professional growth. Residents cultivate confidence, acquire new skills, and enhance their overall well-being, while staff members are actively engaged in their own journey of professional and personal development. This mutual commitment to growth fosters a dynamic and supportive environment for all.

Meaningful Work

Work is a cornerstone of life at Spring Lake Ranch. From baking bread and tending to livestock to repairing furniture, every task contributes to the daily operations of the Ranch. Residents and staff work together, facing challenges and holding one another accountable. This collaborative approach fosters a deep sense of shared purpose and accomplishment, reinforcing the value of each contribution.

Wellness

Our approach to wellness is holistic, encompassing work, recreation, meaningful relationships, medical care, and therapeutic interventions. We believe that genuine healing involves addressing all aspects of life, promoting well-being in a balanced and integrated manner.

Kindness

The Ranch community is grounded in compassion, empathy, and a joyful spirit. It fosters an environment of warmth, care, and authentic connection, where individuals support and inspire one another with kindness and understanding.

Hope

Spring Lake Ranch is committed to the belief that every individual has the capacity for recovery, growth, and wellness. Challenges are met with perseverance, empathy, and the unwavering support of the community.

Acceptance

Upon arrival at Spring Lake Ranch individuals are welcomed with warmth and unconditional acceptance. Our community is inclusive and respectful, creating a safe and nurturing environment where everyone is valued for their authentic selves.

Empowerment

At Spring Lake Ranch, individuals discover their strength, resilience, and untapped potential. Through meaningful work and supportive relationships, residents rebuild their confidence and develop a renewed sense of well-being.

Work-Based Therapy

Residents engage in therapeutic work programs such as farming, carpentry, and forestry, which foster responsibility, self-confidence, and skill development.

Holistic Healing

SLR’s serene, natural setting provides a peaceful environment for recovery, complemented by activities such as hiking, mindfulness, and yoga.

Continuum of Care

With the establishment of the TLP, SLR will offer a seamless transition from intensive care to independent living, with programs tailored to meet the needs of residents at every stage of recovery.

Personalized Clinical Care

Small resident-to-staff ratios allow for individualized care plans that integrate psychiatric, therapeutic, and community support.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

SLR actively addresses co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, offering comprehensive treatment for individuals with dual diagnoses.

Community Living

SLR’s emphasis on shared experiences and communal activities fosters a strong sense of belonging, peer support, and social engagement that are key to recovery.

Service Description
SLR Offers Four Core Programs

Ranch Program

This is the flagship residential program offering intensive care and a structured environment for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders. The program integrates therapeutic work programs (such as farming, carpentry, gardening, and forestry) with clinical care (psychiatric services, therapy, and case management). Residents engage in meaningful work that fosters personal growth, responsibility, and emotional stability.

Elliot House Program

A transitional step-down program that provides reduced clinical oversight while maintaining connections to the therapeutic community. This program is designed for residents who are preparing to transition to more independent living while still benefiting from communal support and therapeutic activities.

Transitional Living Program (TLP)

A planned longer-term, lower-cost transitional program providing continued support and housing for residents who have completed the Ranch Program or similar high-intensity residential treatment programs. The TLP model aims to foster independence while maintaining clinical oversight and support.

Independent Apartment Living (IAL)

Located in Rutland, Vermont, the IAL program offers apartment-style living for residents who have graduated from more structured programs. It provides case management and psychiatric support while allowing residents to live independently. Participants can stay connected to the Ranch community through optional work crews, shared meals, and social events.

Strategic Plan Objectives

Infrastructure Upgrade and Expansion

Over the past two years, a comprehensive assessment of all facilities at Spring Lake Ranch has been conducted, with valuable input from the SLR board and various board committees, professionals, staff, residents and their families. This assessment identified the following priority projects:

Upgrades:

Main House: Renovate the living room, expand the dining area, and add a new kitchen and bathroom. Build two staff apartments and a kitchen dedicated to crew use. Install a fire suppression system throughout the building and add new heat pumps.
Gym: Modernize the gym to enhance usability, including the addition of a mindfulness studio, music studio, equipment storage, and a new bathroom. Reconfigure the gym layout to include a basketball court and a more spacious workout area.
Resident Housing: Upgrade all housing units with heat pumps and refresh furnishings and decor.

New Construction Initiatives:

Community Center: Designed as a welcoming gathering space for the entire community, this center will feature a kitchen, media center, two new offices, a bathroom, and a spacious great room. It will provide a versatile setting for activities, group meetings, and events.
Transitional Living Program (TLP): A 12-bed expansion designed to bridge the gap between residential care and independent living, the TLP will offer a mix of suites and apartments. This program will meet a longstanding need by providing a lower-cost alternative to core programs, with a strong focus on vocational support and independent living skills.
New Farm/Barn: The farm operations will be relocated to a more suitable area and feature a new clear-span and traditional barn along with separate outbuildings for pigs and chickens. This relocation requires additional infrastructure, including electrical and water connections and improved road access. The existing barn and surrounding area will be repurposed to accommodate much-needed storage and parking.

Expand and Improve SLR Continuum of Care

SLR will focus on augmenting its existing programs through continued integration of clinical care with its work-based therapy model, phased approach to programming, enhanced length of stay options with the addition of TLP and focused attention on quality transitions and outcomes measurement.

Therapeutic Goal Alignment: Aligning clinical goals with work program activities to ensure that each resident’s therapeutic work is tailored to their mental health and recovery needs.
Phased Treatment: Introducing structured phases within the therapeutic work programs to align with residents’ progress, ensuring that the intensity of work and clinical care evolves as residents advance in their treatment.
Transition Support: Increased continuity of care and transition support between phases of treatment, from the Ranch Program to Elliot House, TLP, IAL, transitions home or to another step-down program.
Vocational Support: Introduction of an occupational therapist focused on strengthening job-related skills essential for a successful transition to independent living. This role will also help create pathways to meaningful employment opportunities beyond the Ranch.
Outcomes: Increase collection and analysis of outcome data to evaluate the effectiveness of the work-based model and make necessary adjustments to improve resident outcomes.

Increase and Stabilize Census

Employ a multi-faceted approach to increase and maintain census levels by increased marketing, outreach, and development of strategic partnerships through:

Referral Networks: Strengthen relationships with therapeutic consultants, psychiatric hospitals, and mental health professionals across the country to increase the flow of referrals. Expand outreach to areas beyond New England and neighboring states, focusing on regions with higher demand for residential treatment.
Strategic Digital Marketing: Create and disseminate digital content that highlights SLR’s unique approach to work-based therapy and sustainability to attract new residents through digital marketing strategies such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media campaigns, and targeted email outreach to families, hospitals, and referrers.
Ranch Profile Enhancement: Implement a comprehensive public relations strategy to increase awareness of Spring Lake Ranch. Focus on building the Ranch’s reputation through media outreach, partnerships with influential organizations, and targeted awareness campaigns to elevate its visibility both locally and nationally.
Strategic Partnerships: Build strategic partnerships with like-minded mental health providers, residential treatment programs, and community organizations. These partnerships will help expand SLR’s referral base and create new opportunities for collaboration, such as joint programming or resource sharing.

Expand Access through the Reduction of Financial Barriers

Spring Lake Ranch is dedicated to expanding access to its programs for families in need by strengthening financial support and aid opportunities. The overall goal is to double the availability of financial aid by 2030, providing access to SLR services to a broader population including individuals from or underserved communities. Key strategies include:

Establishing Diverse Funding Streams for Long-Term Stability:

Grants: Develop and implement a grant program to identify and apply for grants from funding sources which support program goals and align with SLR’s mission, vision, and values.
Planned-Giving: Raise awareness and increase planned giving by developing clear documentation of various planned giving options. Promote planned giving using small media such as websites, newsletters, and annual reports.
Intentional Stewardship of Alumni and Donors: Establish an Alumni Advisory Committee to develop and implement a communication and engagement plan aimed at strengthening SLR’s relationship with alumni, donors, and prospective donors.
Financial Aid Marketing: Provide information on financial aid to families and referring partners or providers early in the admission process and pre-admission through written materials/brochures and website. Increase access and diversity of SLR population by direct marketing to individuals or organizations that provide mental health services to underserved populations.
Strategic Partnerships for Financial Aid Expansion: Build strategic partnerships with philanthropic organizations, corporate sponsors, and Vermont State agencies to create new financial aid funds and increase access to financial resources. These partnerships will help secure additional financial support and expand SLR’s reach to families who may not otherwise have access to services.

Recruitment and Retention of Staff

Recruit and retain high-quality staff by offering professional development and improving staff well-being through workload management and support.

Key Tactics:

Professional Development: Create a structured professional development plan for staff, offering opportunities for career advancement and training in leadership and management.
Academic Partnerships: Establish partnerships with academic institutions offering social work, psychology, and nursing programs to create a recruitment pipeline for graduates seeking positions in residential care. Offer internship opportunities to students and postgraduates as part of this strategy.
Staff Retention & Wellness Programs: Implement a program focused on reducing burnout through wellness initiatives and internal support networks. Provide opportunities for staff to give feedback and participate in decision-making processes related to program development and work-life balance.
Develop Staff Housing Plan: Develop a staff housing plan that optimizes existing housing, expands on-campus options, and explores nearby affordable solutions. Providing accessible, cost-effective housing will attract out-of-state talent and support staff retention.
Salary and Benefit Reviews: Conduct annual salary and benefit reviews to ensure that compensation remains competitive within the behavioral healthcare industry. Annually quantify and summarize each employee’s compensation package including health, dental, meals and housing (when applicable). Adjust salaries and benefits packages to reflect changes in the cost of living and to maintain parity with comparable organizations.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

To deepen its commitment to environmental responsibility, Spring Lake Ranch is implementing initiatives that prioritize sustainability to reduce its carbon footprint. These efforts focus on energy-efficient upgrades, sustainability education, and community-based projects that encourage environmental stewardship. Key actions include:

Annual Equipment Review and Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Annually, conduct a review of current equipment to identify items that are outdated, inefficient, or environmentally unfriendly. Develop a practical replacement schedule that prioritizes sustainability.
Sustainability education: Incorporating sustainability education into the resident work-crew experience by involving them in environmentally friendly practices such as farming, waste reduction, and energy conservation.
Food Sustainability: Spring Lake Ranch will continue to reduce food waste through composting and maximizing on-site production of fresh produce and protein, creating a sustainable, closed-loop system that supports farm-to-table meals and enriches soil health and the resident experience.
Community-based sustainability projects: Engaging residents, staff, and the community in projects that promote environmental stewardship, furthering SLR’s commitment to sustainability.

Enhance Technology and Data Management

SLR will invest in technology to improve its operational efficiency, quality of care, and clinical outcomes by:

Enhancing the Electronic Health Records (EHR) System: Expanding the use of EHR to streamline clinical care, gather data to track resident progress, measure outcomes and inform quality improvement efforts.
Expanding Telehealth and Use of Digital Health Technologies: Utilize telehealth and other digital health technologies to complement and enhance traditional care and services beyond nutrition counseling to include specialized care, psychiatric support, and other remote consultations. This initiative aims to provide greater accessibility to personalized care options, ensuring residents receive individualized and holistic health support tailored to their needs. These innovations will provide residents with accessible, customized, and effective treatment options, fostering seamless integration into their daily lives post-discharge.

Financial Overview

SLR’s program revenue is composed of resident fee income (85%), annual donations (10%), and other income from product sales and rent (5%). Resident fees are paid directly by families, as insurance coverage is not an option due to the nature of SLR’s model, the expected length of stay, and billing practices. Maintaining strong relationships with referring hospitals and professionals is critical for sustaining census. This is effectively managed by the Admissions & Outreach team, with support from the Development and Communication departments, responsible for public relations, website optimization, and social media outreach.

SLR offers scholarships to qualifying families, covering between 10% and 80% of the daily fee, typically for periods of six months or more. On average, $600K in financial aid is granted annually, with a goal to double this amount by 2030. Scholarships are funded through endowment accounts, and annual donations. The scholarship fund has steadily increased over the last five years from $500K to $1million annually. This growth can be attributed to the dedicated efforts of the Development Department and enhanced strategies for donor stewardship.

SLR also runs small annual campaigns in the spring to support capital improvement projects. However, with the upcoming $18 million capital campaign set to launch in February 2025, the Ranch is unlikely to conduct additional spring campaigns for the next several years.

The 2020-2025 Strategic Plan emphasized the need for improved fiscal management practices and long-term sustainability. Over the past five years, considerable progress has been made to achieve this, including reorganizing the Business Office, upgrading accounting software and auditing services, digitizing records, and moving financial processes to the cloud. On the expense side, a procurement policy was implemented and budget mangers received training. Departmental budgets are tracked monthly. These efforts have led to better financial control, improved staff financial literacy, and greater empowerment in decision-making within budget constraints.

SLR’s financial performance has seen considerable improvement. Investment balances have increased by 25% in the past three years, from $7.7 million to over $9.6 million. Additionally, early contributions to the 2025 Capital Campaign have already reached $5 million, with another $9.5 million pledged.

Behavioral Health Overview & Key Trends

The U.S. behavioral healthcare industry is expanding due to rising mental illness rates and growing awareness of mental health challenges. Valued at $87.3 billion in 2023, the sector is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.1% through 2032. This growth is particularly evident in treatment programs that offer dual diagnosis treatment, holistic, and integrated care models. As families increasingly seek these options, demand for these services continues to rise.

Several key trends are shaping the industry, including the growing prevalence of serious mental health disorders, particularly among younger populations, and the reduced stigma around seeking mental health treatment. While telehealth has improved access to psychiatric care, programs like Spring Lake Ranch (SLR) must balance remote care with the in-person benefits of work-based therapy. Additionally, there is increasing demand for environmentally sustainable practices within residential programs.

Industry disruptors, which pose challenges to traditional behavioral healthcare programs, include healthcare consolidation, digital therapeutics, the rising prevalence of cannabis-induced psychosis, and the growing expectation for residential programs to offer holistic, integrative treatment models that go beyond traditional psychiatric services.

Performance Tracking and Measurement

A performance tracking and measurement system will be developed and implemented to measure progress towards 2025-2030 Strategic Plan objectives and goals. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be tracked monthly by departments. An annual review of goals and measures will be conducted by SLR the executive team, department managers, and the Board of Trustees.

Regular review of these metrics will help ensure accountability and progress toward strategic objectives while enabling timely adjustments when necessary.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): SLR will track a set of KPIs across departments, measuring progress against strategic goals monthly. Each department will be responsible for collecting data and reporting on key metrics such as:

Occupancy Rates: Tracking occupancy for all programs, including the new Transitional Living Program (TLP), to ensure census stability.
Resident Progress and Outcomes: Measuring resident progress in clinical and work-based therapy, including completion of treatment phases and successful transitions to lower levels of care.
Referral Sources and Admissions: Monitoring the number and quality of referrals, as well as the time taken to convert leads to admissions.
Scholarship Distribution: Reporting on the amount of financial aid provided and its impact on increasing access for underserved populations.
Financial Performance: Tracking revenue from resident fees, donations, and product sales, as well as expenses related to the new capital campaign and sustainability initiatives.
Environmental Impact: Tracking energy efficiency improvements, including reduced operational costs from the installation of energy star rated equipment and decreased waste production.

These KPIs will be reviewed by senior leadership and department managers monthly, ensuring that any deviations from targets are addressed quickly and effectively.

Annual Roadmaps: At the beginning of each fiscal year, each department will develop an annual roadmap that outlines major milestones and deliverables aligned with strategic objectives. These roadmaps will be reviewed annually to assess overall performance, align resources, and make necessary adjustments.
Quarterly Reports: Develop introspective quarterly reports for department heads and managers to track progress toward strategic objectives. Ensure the reports provide meaningful insights aligned with organizational goals while avoiding unnecessary busy work.
Performance Reviews: Leadership and management will be held accountable to achieve the organization’s strategic objectives, which will be integrated into their annual performance plans and reviews. Each manager’s and leadership team member’s performance will be evaluated based on their effectiveness in executing the strategic initiatives relevant to their department.

Board Governance

The Board of Trustees plays a critical role in implementing an organization’s strategic plan. As ambassadors to the organization’s mission and vision, their responsibilities include:

Setting Strategic Direction

Approve and support the strategic plan developed by executive leadership.
Ensure the plan aligns with the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
Provide insights and guidance to refine strategic priorities.
Monitor the implementation of the strategic plan to ensure it progresses on schedule and meets key performance indicators (KPIs).
Review risks associated with the plan to ensure appropriate mitigation strategies are in place.

Resource Allocation

Approve budgets and allocate resources to support the plan’s priorities.
Ensure the organization has the financial, human, and technological resources necessary to succeed.

Performance Evaluation

Regularly assess the organization’s performance against the strategic plan.
Adjust goals, resources, or timelines as necessary based on outcomes and feedback.
Conduct evaluations of the executive director to ensure alignment with strategic priorities.

Fostering a Culture of Accountability

Encourage transparency in reporting and communication regarding progress and challenges.
Promote a culture of innovation and adaptability to effectively respond to changing circumstances.

By fulfilling these roles, the board ensures the strategic plan serves as a dynamic roadmap for organizational success.

Spring Lake Ranch Therapeutic Community stands at a pivotal moment in its 92-year history.

SLR is poised for significant growth and expansion while remaining rooted in its core mission of providing holistic, community-based mental health care.

The 2025-2030 Strategic Plan outlines concrete objectives that reflect SLR’s commitment to enhancing its service offerings, improving program integration, and addressing the growing demand for transitional and long-term care.

At the heart of this plan is the development of the Transitional Living Program (TLP), which will meet the demand for extended care and support for residents transitioning from more intensive treatment. Alongside this, SLR is dedicated to improving clinical integration, increasing, and stabilizing its census through strategic marketing, outreach, and partnerships, and expanding its financial aid availability to ensure that cost is not a barrier to access for families in need.

Strategic partnerships play a vital role across multiple objectives, from expanding referral networks and financial aid to collaborating with other treatment centers and organizations to drive innovation and access to care.

As SLR continues to adapt to changes in the behavioral healthcare landscape, it remains focused on its foundational principles of community, therapeutic work, and personalized care. By investing in strategic partnerships, technology, and long-term financial sustainability, SLR is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a leader in farm-based, work-therapy programs for mental health recovery, serving a diverse and expanding population well into the future.

Strategic Plan PDF

Aaron Haupt

Cook

Zoe Ciarametaro

Program Coordinator

Andi Bernans

Program Coordinator

Georgina Soto

Program Coordinator

Francine Barrera

Program Coordinator

Lisa Gardner

Recreation Special Activities Coordinator

Karim Chapman

Overnight Support Staff

Leandro Pedrosa

Program Coordinator

Asa Bloomer

Overnight Support Staff

Shudder Hurd-Burnell

Program Coordinator

Brian Hummer

Program Coordinator

Chris Hussey

Program Coordinator

Erica Jeon

Program Coordinator

Jessie Foley

Program Coordinator

Curt Hoffman

Evening Shift Supervisor

Chris Colm

Case Manager

Alex Schoch

Program Coordinator Supervisor

Paddy Martin

Facilities Technician

Joann Bradley

Housekeeper

Austin Osborne

Facilities Technician

Ray Pratt

Facilities Technician

Hattie Hevrin

Facilities Administrative Coordinator

Rachel Stark

Executive Director

Nathan Hewitt

Logistics Manager

Kelly McCracken

Assistant Chef

Cathy Johnson

Food Services Manager

Harold “Hal” Niblack

Driver/Recovery Coach

Erin Barber

Administrative Assistant

Jennifer Haskins

Administrative Coordinator

Rita Francisco

Outreach Manager

Jennifer Pryslak

HR Manager

Anna Sutton

Development and Communications Manager

Leslie Sall

Admissions and Operations Manager

Jackie Osborne

Transitions Manager

Jill Loeber

Finance Manager

Loretta Fermin

Gardens Crew Assistant

Rose McCracken

Development and Communications Director

Alfred Henderson

Woods Crew Assistant

Olivia Mancivalano

Farm Crew Assistant

Nathan Frazier

Woods Crew Manager