For over 20 years Ironwood has been a place where my three sons, my husband and I have enjoyed the beautiful natural environment, a connection to animals and the peace of the rural life. I have been a part of Ironwood since the beginning stages of development, and it’s been a pleasure for me to see this beautiful landscape transform from a working farm to a world-class facility that gives teens guidance and helps them to critically look at their lives, their life path and how their decisions affect their future.

Because of my long-standing connection to Ironwood, I am invested in the outcome of each resident. It’s challenging and rewarding for me to work with teens in a setting that mirrors and is conducive to a family environment. Many residents see me as a parental role model, a position that is comfortable for me, because it’s what I do inside my home, being the mother of three teen-aged boys.

The quality of the relationship I have with each resident is crucial to the development of his or her individual program. I focus on instilling boundaries that create peaceful, respectful relationships between residents and their parents. As I interact with residents, I take each teaching moment and equate it to a scenario at home, so that they can relate to their own personal environment.

What is most gratifying to me is hearing back from past residents on their progress, their lives and their future. I especially enjoy hearing how they have reconnected and strengthened their relationship with their parents. Our residents are not only learning to participate as a productive member of their family, they are positively shaping society’s future.

Kellie is married to Chris Plessner, one of Ironwood’s behavioral specialists. Kellie is certified as a CPR and First Aid Instructor, certified as a CPI Nonviolent Crisis Prevention Instructor, and is a direct care trainer. She has extensive training in Equine Assisted Therapy. Kellie is active in her community and church. Kellie has a 2nd degree brown belt in Ketsugo martial arts. She enjoys outdoor adventures, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fishing and boating. Over the past 15 years, she has grown to intimately know the extensive woodland trail system that surrounds Ironwood and Frye Mountain. She has 30 years of equine experience and treasures her connection to God and nature.