Elk Hill

08/05/2026

Elk Hill’s beloved summer camp programs have expanded this year, allowing even more children to experience outdoor adventure and the healing power of nature.
In June, campers aged 8-12 spent four weeks exploring the wild side of Richmond. They gardened with Shalom Farms, rock-climbed with Peak Experiences, and went white-water rafting with RVA Paddle sports, among other activities.
July saw the official launch of Elk Hill’s Camp Ubuntu for 6 to 10year-olds, which includes children from the Scottsville community as well as kids from Elk Hill’s programs and community partner referrals. Each day begins with a social circle, quiet time in a “sit spot” outdoors, and free play in the creek. The kids then hike into Scottsville for an afternoon in the town’s historic Victory Hall theater, where they create and perform plays based on children’s books.
In our eight-week camp, our youth aged 10-16 have learned about farm life at Bellair Farm, gone swimming at Sugar Hollow, hiked in Shenandoah National Park, and tooled around Walnut Creek on our new kayaks and bellyaks (kayaks that are used while lying down). One of their favorite experiences: camping out at Elk Hill, surrounded by fireflies and the magic of a summer night.

07/31/2026

It was a tough year for Gracie. She had assaulted the principal at her previous elementary school and had been hospitalized because of her aggressive behavior. In Gracie’s new school in Virginia, the behavior continued: uncontrollable outbursts, inappropriate touching, even throwing things across the classroom. School staff didn’t know what to do. Then, Gracie met Cookie.
Cookie the rabbit is one of Elk Hill’s therapy animals, which are used by our school-based counselors during their daily sessions with children in schools. Our rabbits, chinchillas, and bearded dragons (plus one tortoise) all were rescued from local shelters, then screened to make sure they would thrive in a school environment.
Cookie understands what it’s like to endure tough times. When he arrived in our care, he was malnourished and covered with mud. Now, he’s a big, healthy bunny who enjoys interacting with children. Children turn to Cookie for calm and comfort, says counselor Elizabeth Ganey.
When a child is upset about something that happened at school, she’ll say: “If you don’t want to tell me, tell Cookie. He’s a good listener.” If a child is having a great day, they want to tell the bunny about that too. “Are you proud of me, Cookie?” they ask.
Gracie had a history of violence toward animals, but her team believed she could learn to treat them with love and respect. Ms. Ganey taught Gracie how to pet the bunny gently and eventually, how to hold him.
Together, they set a goal: If Gracie could follow the rules, improve her behavior, and complete her work, she would be allowed to bring Cookie to her classroom for a year-end show and tell. Gracie achieved that goal.
She explained to her classmates the “rules of the bunny”: Always ask before picking him up. Always set him down gently. Cookie, Gracie told them, was “her favorite person.”
Because of you, our donors, Elk Hill never gives up on children like Gracie. We know they’re capable of overcoming overwhelming challenges. It just takes expert care, coaching, and patience—and sometimes, a bunny’s love.

07/15/2026

🐴☀️ And just like that, another incredible summer of our Equine Program has come to a close!

Throughout the summer, students built confidence, strengthened social skills, and practiced healthy communication through groundwork and horsemanship. 💚

Our Equine Program provides a safe, supportive space where children, adolescents, and families can experience acceptance, healing, and personal growth. 🌱

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing families, dedicated staff, and of course, our wonderful equine friends who make this program so special. 🐎✨ Here's to another unforgettable summer!

06/22/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Elk Hill Announces Dr. Laura Easter Named Chief Executive Officer

GOOCHLAND, Va. — The Elk Hill Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Laura Easter as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2026.

Dr. Easter brings extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of Elk Hill's mission, programs, and culture. During her 18-year tenure with the organization, she has played a pivotal role in expanding services and strengthening outcomes for children and families.

Dr. Easter began her Elk Hill career as the founding Program Director of Spring Garden, Elk Hill's first group home for girls. She later developed and led the organization's community-based services program, overseeing school-based mental health services, outpatient therapy, in-home counseling, and therapeutic mentoring. In 2020, she was named Chief Operating Officer, where she assumed responsibility for Elk Hill's residential, educational, and community services programs throughout Central Virginia.

"It is an honor to serve as Elk Hill's next Chief Executive Officer," said Dr. Easter. "For more than 55 years, Elk Hill has empowered children and families to overcome significant challenges and build brighter futures. I am inspired every day by the dedication, compassion, and expertise of our staff, and I look forward to leading Elk Hill into its next chapter of growth and impact."

As part of this leadership transition, Elk Hill is also pleased to announce additional executive appointments that will strengthen the organization's leadership team.

Paul Bratton has been named Chief Operating Officer. Having served Elk Hill in leadership roles for 27 years, Bratton brings extensive operational expertise and a strong commitment to the organization's mission. In his new role, he will oversee Elk Hill's residential, educational, and community-based programs while continuing to support strategic growth and operational excellence.

"It is a privilege to be named Chief Operating Officer for Elk Hill and to uphold the culture established by Michael Farley, Ron Spears, and Laura Easter over the years,” said Paul Bratton. “Our employees are our greatest asset. Fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and appreciation not only strengthens our organization but also enhances the experience of the children we serve.”

Diana Hudgins has been named Chief Administrative Officer. Hudgins has been instrumental in strengthening Elk Hill's organizational culture, talent development, risk management and performance quality improvement. As Chief Administrative Officer, she will continue leading key administrative functions and supporting the organization's long-term sustainability and success.

"It is an honor to be tasked with the stewardship of our culture, which is rooted in mission-driven service to do what’s best for kids," said Diana Hudgins. “Helping strengthen our culture, develop our talent, and enhance our systems has been deeply meaningful to me. I look forward to continuing our partnership with dedicated stakeholders to position Elk Hill for long-term sustainability and success, ensuring these essential resources remain available for the children and families we serve.”

"This leadership team reflects the strength, experience, and commitment that have defined Elk Hill for more than 55 years," said Nelson Teague, Chair of the Elk Hill Board of Trustees. "Laura, Paul, and Diana each bring a deep commitment to our mission and a proven record of service. We are confident they will build upon Ron's remarkable legacy while guiding Elk Hill into an exciting future."

This transition also marks the retirement of Ron Spears, who has dedicated 42 years of service to Elk Hill, including the past six years as Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, Elk Hill expanded its reach and impact across Virginia, helping thousands of children and families access the support, education, and opportunities they need to succeed.

"Ron has dedicated his career to transforming the lives of children and families facing significant challenges," said Nelson. "His visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to our mission, and profound impact on the organization have shaped Elk Hill into the trusted and respected organization it is today. We are deeply grateful for his extraordinary service and lasting legacy."

About Elk Hill
For more than 55 years, Elk Hill has served children and families experiencing mental health and behavioral challenges through residential treatment, special education, community-based services, and family support programs throughout Central Virginia. Elk Hill's mission is to enable children and families to transform overwhelming challenges into successful futures.

06/18/2026

☀️ Field Day Fun at Elk Hill Staunton! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
Students and staff teamed up for a day full of friendly competition, teamwork, and fun during our annual Field Day! From relay races to team challenges, everyone showed off their communication, determination, and school spirit.
A great day, great memories, and even greater teamwork! 💙

05/22/2026

Thank you to the Goochland Chamber of Commerce for celebrating Arbor Day with us at our Goochland campus! We appreciate your support and partnership and were honored to plant a tree together. 🌳

3rd Annual Arbor Day - just wow.
A collaboration between:
Eastern Tree Arboricultural Consulting, Kate M. Tuttle CA
Elk Hill
GVA 250
Goochland Chamber of Commerce
The Gardener Nursery

On May 20th, we gathered to celebrate Arbor Day in Goochland! 🌳

Thank you to those who joined us for this special community event featuring a ceremonial tree planting and a celebration of Goochland’s rich natural heritage.

Carol Taylor with the Goochland Chamber was proud to be a part of this program and loves opportunities that bring together numerous Chamber members.

A special thank you to Kate Tuttle with Eastern Tree Agricultural Consulting for teaching us how to properly plant a tree and sharing her knowledge with our community. We are also grateful to The Gardener Nursery for providing the beautiful dogwood tree, and to Elk Hill Farm for giving it a lovely new home.

Dr. Laura Easter shared a little about the history of Elk Hill Farm, helping us connect the day’s celebration to the land, stories, and heritage that make Goochland so special.

We also appreciated hearing from VA250 representative Manny Alvarez, who shared updates on the celebration of Virginia’s 250th anniversary and the importance of honoring our shared history.

After the tree was planted, we gathered for a toast to the tree and shared a meaningful tree prayer — a special moment to reflect on growth, community, and the lasting impact of what we plant today.

Together, we planted a tree, celebrated our history, and made a positive impact on the future of Goochland.

Thank you to our community members, Chamber members, business leaders, and nature enthusiasts who came out to be part of this special celebration!

04/24/2026

Elk Hill was proud to be at the 2026 Virginia Association of Independent Specialized Education Facilities (VAISIEF) Spring Conference in Lynchburg, Virginia this week!

Pictured left to right is Head of Harambee School, Shawn Freeman, CEO, Ron Spears, and Residential Director, Paul Bratton. Their leadership and commitment continue to strengthen our mission of supporting and empowering the students and families we serve.

We’re grateful for opportunities like this to connect, learn, and collaborate with others dedicated to specialized education across Virginia.

04/10/2026

✨ 10 Years of Impact. Countless Lives Changed. ✨

What began as a small pipe dream has grown into something truly incredible eight weeks of summer programming, a spring break outlet, and a widely recommended after-school program supporting kids navigating overwhelming challenges.

As we celebrate this program’s 10-year anniversary, we’re taking a moment to recognize the people who make it all possible. 💚

💚Scott brings an irreplaceable presence as a therapeutic anchor for kids in need of emotional support and a safe space.

💚Rob has a remarkable ability to intuitively understand each child, building meaningful connections and lasting trust.

💚Mr. Andy leads with a thoughtful balance of education, care, and energy—serving as both a mentor and the kind of “cool big brother” every kid looks up to...

Together, they’ve created a space where kids feel seen, supported, and safe.

We know Buford is smiling down, proud of the impact being made every single day. 🌿