Every life journey has unexpected turns, but for survivors of traumatic brain injury (TBI), the most challenging part of recovery often begins when the hospital stay ends. At Bridges for Brain Injury, we believe in building a path forward—a path paved with purpose, dignity, and connection.
One of the most powerful ways our members reclaim their lives is through the Wildlife Rockstars program, where TBI survivors become educators and caregivers for non-releasable animal ambassadors. Our Bridging the Gap documentary series takes you behind the scenes to see this transformation in action.
In this episode, we join the Rockstars for one of their beloved community events: Wildlife Wednesday at Eastview Mall.
Watch the full episode of Bridging the Gap:
A Meet-and-Greet With a Mission
Almost every Wednesday through the summer, the Wildlife Rockstars set up a special meet and greet at the mall. People come up, see our animals up close, and ask questions. But for our members, the event is about far more than animal education—it’s about empowerment.
“What we are doing is just educating the public on some of the animals that we have, and giving our members the opportunity to teach about the animals and build on their social skills.”
The Rockstars transition from program participants to confident, capable teachers. They handle everything from the tiniest arachnids to the most exotic lizards, sharing knowledge and dispelling common myths.
Member Pat, for instance, introduces the crowd to Billy, our Curly Hair Tarantula, emphasizing that the shy creature is “more scared of us than we should be of them.” This simple lesson in understanding often mirrors the members’ own journey of overcoming judgment and finding acceptance.
The Power of Purpose and Belonging
For the staff, witnessing this personal growth is the most rewarding part of the job.
“This is my fourth year going on my fifth year... and I’ve loved every minute of it,” says one staff member. “The ability to ensure the welfare of the animals that we get to take care of, as well as building the bonds between our members and participants, and watching the growth that they have and see their stories change.”
The mall setting offers a unique, personal interaction that is vital for rebuilding confidence and social connection. It allows the Rockstars to be authentic and personable—the ultimate defense against TBI-related isolation.
“I’m not really good at the whole standing-on-stage-with-a-script thing. I like to be personable with my audience. I like to just face to face,” one Rockstar shares. “I’m a better improv than I am a line.”
Whether it’s showing off Chewy the pale fox (the second smallest fox in the world) or explaining the unique, defensive skills of an armadillo, the Rockstars find joy in sharing their passion.
This sense of connection is profound:
“It definitely makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside,” one member reflects. “It does give me some sense of belonging.”
Wherever they go—from our farmyard to the public plaza—the Wildlife Rockstars bring people, animals, and hope together. These community interactions are more than a fun show; they are living proof that healing is possible and that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.
How You Can Help
If you’re in the Farmington, NY area and are interested in booking one of the ten Wildlife Rockstar programs we offer, please head to our Wildlife Rockstars page to fill out a program request form!
Every step forward is powered by the support of our community. Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply share our story, you’re helping someone take the next step toward healing.
Your support builds bridges. Bridges between trauma and triumph, isolation and connection, and today’s challenges to tomorrow’s dreams.
JOIN US. SUPPORT THE JOURNEY. AND HELP US BUILD WHAT COMES NEXT.
As a nonprofit organization, we need your help to make a difference in the lives of people living with traumatic brain injuries. Whether you are a family caregiver, a medical provider, or a potential donor looking to support a nonprofit with national recognition, your involvement can help ensure that every individual navigating the brain injury journey receives access to the best possible outcome supported by a compassionate, skilled team.
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It’s sunshine, laughter, and barnyard fun at Bridges for Brain Injury’s Farm Fun Day! In this episode of Bridging the Gap, members and staff spend the day outdoors at the Bridges Barnyard — playing games, meeting animals, and celebrating connection.
