Sheryl DiStefano -- Purpose Farm: Where Animals and Kids Heal Each Other

Zestful Aging tours Purpose Farm, in Upstate New York, which is a unique nonprofit, hosting a free youth program for traumatized children and rescued animals. Children who have emotional trauma from abuse, neglect or being bullied, interact with animals from similar backgrounds. The Farm offers the children hope, joy, empathy and confidence. Animal mentors include horses, pigs, goats, donkeys, a variety of birds, alpacas and a camel. The bonds that form are nothing short of magical. Sheryl DiStefano is a OB/GYN PA who retired from clinical practice 7 years ago. She was introduced to Purpose Farm at a goat yoga class, which she begrudgingly attended. After class she toured the farm, and became a volunteer. She does a variety of volunteer activities, including pasture cleaning, food prep for Chris P Bacon (a pig), saleswoman at goat yoga and fundraising for the Farm. Find out more at: PurposeFarm.org. Find out more about the Zestful Aging Podcast at NicoleChristina.com.