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Here it is intentional, unavoidable, & happening in the NOW!
In Support of a Hero’s Journey
Our Mission
Our organization’s Mission is to provide a transformative, biophilic environment where individuals impacted by trauma can heal, grow, and rediscover Peace, Joy, & Balance in their lives. We utilize a combination of cutting-edge treatments and holistic practices to restore balance and foster resilience in those we serve.
Kris Carlson: Meet the 1st HERO of our Story
Kris Carlson and Christopher Flint, co-founders of The Flint Ranch Institute for Living, have been best friends and supporters for over 25 years. Their bond and shared journey of healing from trauma, vicarious trauma, and PTSD inspired the institute. Before transitioning to civil work, Kris served as a law enforcement officer, joining the Northern New England Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) in 1999, one of the first 10 ICAC units established by the U.S. Department of Justice. He received training in computer forensics, undercover operations, and technical investigations, advancing to Detective and later Detective Sergeant, overseeing the Special Victims Unit (SVU) in the state's largest county. Kris then became Detective Lieutenant and Vermont ICAC Commander, overseeing statewide task force operations for over six years.
Kris also served as an instructor for the Vermont Criminal Justice Training Council for over 13 years and as a trainer for the national ICAC Technical Assistance and Training Program. He has trained thousands of law enforcement, prosecutors, and civilian support staff in technical investigations, sexual assault/abuse cases, mental health wellness, and more. Kris has testified before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on ICAC operations and is a founding member and key presenter for SHIFT (Supporting Heroes in Mental Health Foundational Training), focusing on the wellness of those exposed to trauma.
You can Help Make a Difference Today
DONATE NOW & Support Our Programs Today!
Those on the front lines saving children from sex trafficking, exploitation, slavery & the unfathomable evil of humanity’s worst put their well-being on the line to protect All of our vulnerable & suffering children. We provide them with the tools, support & healing they need to continue their critical missions.
The Flint Ranch Institute for Living Nonprofit 501(c)(3)
Our Mission
The Flint Ranch Institute for Living is a pioneering center for research and education dedicated to exploring the healing properties of nature and the impact of intentional biophilic design. Our mission is to investigate how these principles promote brain healing in trauma-exposed individuals, including those facing vicarious trauma, PTSD
The Flint Ranch Institute for Living is a pioneering center for research and education dedicated to exploring the healing properties of nature and the impact of intentional biophilic design. Our mission is to investigate how these principles promote brain healing in trauma-exposed individuals, including those facing vicarious trauma, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in frontline heroes.
By providing a sanctuary for resilience and renewal, we offer these heroes a place to recover, learn, and thrive. Collaborating with the Innocent Justice Foundation and the SHIFT program, the Institute advances long-term studies and shares its findings to shape the future of trauma-informed care and bring hope to those who protect and serve.
OUR IMPACT
At the Flint Ranch Institute for Living, our Three & Five-Day Renewal and Resilience Program is designed to support frontline heroes, including those from the ICAC Task Force, by providing a flexible, concierge-style program tailored to individual needs. This program integrates biophilic research, holistic wellness, and trauma-informed ca
At the Flint Ranch Institute for Living, our Three & Five-Day Renewal and Resilience Program is designed to support frontline heroes, including those from the ICAC Task Force, by providing a flexible, concierge-style program tailored to individual needs. This program integrates biophilic research, holistic wellness, and trauma-informed care to promote renewal and resilience. Participants engage in guided nature-based experiences, meditation, breathwork, and leadership training, all aimed at enhancing their ability to protect children and manage the emotional challenges associated with their critical work.
Flint Ranch Institute for Living: 3- to 5-Day Renewal and Resilience Program
The Flint Ranch Institute for Living offers a **flexible, concierge-style** 3- to 5-day Renewal and Resilience Program, customized to meet the unique needs of each participant. Unlike rigid daily schedules, this program allows facilitators to tailor activities, workshops, and therapeutic modalities based on the specific needs of trauma-ex
The Flint Ranch Institute for Living offers a **flexible, concierge-style** 3- to 5-day Renewal and Resilience Program, customized to meet the unique needs of each participant. Unlike rigid daily schedules, this program allows facilitators to tailor activities, workshops, and therapeutic modalities based on the specific needs of trauma-exposed professionals, including ICAC commanders, SVU professionals, and frontline heroes. Through biophilic research, holistic wellness, and trauma-informed care, this program fosters **resilience, renewal, and long-term well-being**.
Program Offerings
Biophilic Research and Experiential Learning
• Intentional Biophilic Design: Exploring how architecture, space, and nature-centered design influence emotional renewal.• The Neuroscience of Nature and Healing: How direct exposure to natural environments fosters cognitive and emotional resilience.• Interactive Nature Workshops: Engaging in activities like forest bathing, sensory nature walks, and therapeutic gardening.• Outdoor Sound Therapy: Harnessing natural sounds (wind, water, wildlife) for deep relaxation and emotional processing.
Holistic Wellness and Somatic Practices
• Breathwork for Stress Reduction: Practical breath control techniques to reset the nervous system and enhance resilience.• Movement and Embodiment Practices: Incorporating yoga, guided stretching, and mindful movement for trauma renewal.• Nutritional Strategies for Mental Health: Exploring how diet impacts mood, resilience, and brain function.• Firelight Reflection Circles: Nightly gatherings by the fire to share experiences, engage in storytelling, and foster community.
Immersive Outdoor Resilience Training
• Biophilic Awareness Hikes: Learning to engage with the landscape through sensory connection and mindfulness.• Trail Riding and Equine Connection: Working with horses to develop trust, leadership, and emotional regulation.• Primitive Skills and Nature-Based Resilience: Hands-on learning in self-sufficiency, adaptability, and overcoming mental barriers.• Solitude and Wilderness Reflection: Guided solo nature experiences for deep personal renewal
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Trauma Resilience and EMDR Therapy
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) sessions tailored to assist trauma survivors in processing distressing memories.• Support for frontline heroes in strengthening resilience and managing PTSD.• Personalized one-on-one or small group EMDR experiences in a natural, calming setting.• Understanding the neuroscience of trauma and how it affects emotional regulation.
Compassionate Leadership and Purposeful Service
• Leading with Emotional Intelligence: Understanding the role of trauma and stress in decision-making and leadership.• Developing a Resilient Mindset: Mental training to sustain high performance in demanding roles.• Service-Driven Leadership: Cultivating purpose and motivation through meaningful work and personal growth.
“To see a World in a Grain of Sand and a Heaven in a Wild Flower, hold Infinity in the palm of your hand and Eternity in an hour.” William Blake
Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Florida Mountains, The Flint Ranch stands proudly at 4,600 feet, offering breathtaking 100-mile views to the east, where spectacular sunrises paint the horizon in fiery hues. To the west, the dramatic peaks of the Florida Mountains soar over 7,500 feet, casting long shadows as the sun sets in a breathta
Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Florida Mountains, The Flint Ranch stands proudly at 4,600 feet, offering breathtaking 100-mile views to the east, where spectacular sunrises paint the horizon in fiery hues. To the west, the dramatic peaks of the Florida Mountains soar over 7,500 feet, casting long shadows as the sun sets in a breathtaking display of color and light. Here, nature‘s grandeur meets profound tranquility, creating an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Southwest.
Our Mission is Clear & Focused
A Message from the Founder: Christopher A. Flint
We’ve built a sanctuary for those who protect exploited, abused, and innocent children—the ones who face humanity’s darkest evils so others don’t have to. Too often, they bear unimaginable trauma alone. That’s why I stand with the Innocent Justice Foundation and SHIFT, creating space to heal, renew, and rebuild.
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