State of the Ranch 2024
2023 was a year of C H A N G E !
2023 brought great changes to our organization, including new leadership, the introduction and implementation of our Transitional Living Program (TLP); and the transition for several of our youth to ‘adulthood’.
As our Transitional Living Program (TLP) bloomed, we were given the opportunity to support several of our TLP residents on their journey from High School graduation to College. We celebrated their success and accomplishments with a Graduation Brunch held on-site where friends, family, and other residents were welcomed to enjoy. Many of our youth have faced challenges navigating the secondary school system in the past; this includes placement changes, household changes, and attendance, which negatively affected their success in school. Graduation is often viewed as ‘out of reach’ for them, due to the amount of work they have missed.
One of the program goals of the TLP is to help each participant attain self-sufficiency; from full-time employment to educational success.
The High School transition to College was quite the experience for both of our graduating residents - from navigating applications for housing, books, meals, etc. to furnishing their dorms and procuring other miscellaneous items. Our team was there to support them every step of the way… including travelling through Texas to transport them to their dorm and to attend freshman orientation.
Additionally in 2023, we strengthened our community partnerships to provide a continuum of care to the youth who call Parks Youth Ranch ‘home’. We established networks of support with other youth serving agencies and the colleges our youth attend.
The year ended with a tremendous amount of support from our community with gifts and volunteers on-site. Our youth spent their time with volunteers and enjoyed opportunities for new experiences out in the community. Holidays at the ranch were planned and executed with a great amount of detail, to ensure each experience was special for all of our youth.
We are truly grateful for the donations and funding we have received for our operations. The numerous hours volunteers have contributed to offer special attention to our youth is truly invaluable and treasured.
As we look forward to 2024, we are excited to celebrate the upcoming graduations, college acceptances, new jobs, and independence for our youth who call Parks Youth Ranch a Home for Today and Hope for Tomorrow.