Village Ranch Inc

Overview

Village Ranch Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1988 by Christian community leaders in Cokato, Minnesota. Initially established to support troubled boys, the organization has since expanded its services to include both boys and girls, along with their families. It operates as a continuum of family services, aiming to inspire positive change and hope by addressing spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical needs.

Mission

The mission of Village Ranch Inc. is to provide a safe environment for troubled youths under court order, focusing on education and spiritual renewal through a family-oriented group home setting. The organization is guided by core values that include a servant heart, humility, integrity, gratitude, relationship-centered approaches, and respect.

History

• 1988: Village Ranch Residential Home was established in response to the needs of struggling youth in the Cokato area.
• 2008: Village Ranch Child and Family Services was incorporated, expanding services to reach more families dealing with disruptive behaviors.
• 2009: Outpatient services began in Anoka and Cokato under the direction of Tim Wright.
• 2011: The Village Ranch Hutchinson House was started, offering transitional services for young men.
• 2015: A group home was established in Rochester, Minnesota.
• 2016: The first girls' home opened in Annandale, Minnesota.
• 2018: The Family Focus Program was launched to assist parents in transitioning adolescents back into their homes.
• 2023: Village Ranch introduced a vocational class to provide hands-on skills training for youth.

Services

Village Ranch offers a range of programs designed to support children and families:

• Residential Program: Provides structured, skills-based support in a residential setting.
• Foster Care Program: Offers a healthy, safe, and nurturing environment.
• Outpatient Program: Delivers counseling services in clients' homes or communities.

These services aim to help participants discover their strengths, develop skills, and rebuild as a family.

Community Involvement

Village Ranch is actively involved in community projects across Minnesota, including community service initiatives such as the Clearwater Rodeo and the Cokato Corn Carnival. Residents participate in various community service projects, reflecting the organization's commitment to both youth development and community engagement.

Leadership

Scott Bakeberg serves as the CEO of Village Ranch Inc., driving the organization's strategic expansion and service delivery.

Employment Opportunities

Village Ranch offers competitive employment opportunities with a focus on impacting the lives of youth positively. The organization provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees and is an equal opportunity employer.

Programs and Impact

• Family Focus Program: Achieved an 86% success rate for completing family-focused services in 2022.
• Rochester Program: Experienced successful discharges, with residents transitioning to independent living arrangements.
• Vocational Class: Focuses on empowering youth by teaching real-world skills for career success.