Arkansas Sheriffs' Youth Ranches

General information

The Ranch was founded in 1976 by a group of concerned sheriffs as a shelter for boys. What began with one mobile home in Independence County has now grown to one of the state's premiere residential foster programs providing homes for boys and girls.

Children come to the Ranch because they need a place to call home. Some have been abandoned, abused, and neglected. Others may come from families who through difficult circumstances can no longer care for their child. We provide these boys and girls with what we believe is the birthright of every child—the right to proper health care, educational opportunities, and a loving, safe home environment with people who care—not only for them—but about them, as well.

There is no “up-and-out” policy at the Ranch. We support each child’s educational dreams by helping them attend college, vocational or technical training, or an apprenticeship program. No matter how long a child stays, the Ranch will be a place of stability and caring support.

LIFE AT THE RANCH

• Ranchers live in a cottage with up to eight other children and are cared for by houseparents
• Ranchers attend public schools and receive after school tutoring
• 100% of our boys and girls graduate high school or receive their GED
• After high school, the Ranch supports our boys and girls who actively pursue post-secondary education or vocational training
• Ranchers are responsible for household chores and work on the Ranch during the summer
• The average length of stay for a child at the Ranch is 3 to 5 years
• All Ranchers receive counseling services by licensed therapists
• Students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities at school or in the community
• Horseback riding is offered regularly at campuses with equine programs
• The Ranch operates a registered cattle program, which helps offset its program costs while giving our Ranchers real-life skills and experience raising and showing cattle
• Ranchers also enjoy swimming, fishing and riding their bicycles around our beautiful campuses
• The Ranches are licensed by the Department of Human Services Division of Family and Children’s Services
• The Ranch is a state-wide, private nonprofit 501(c)3 organization and we serve children from every county in Arkansas and do not discriminate in regards to race, color, gender, national origin, religion
• The Ranch is not for children with serious emotional or mental disturbances or children with severe behavioral issues—it is for good kids who need a supportive place to call home

Learn more about life at the Ranch at www.YouthRanches.com.