Our Blog

Shining Moments

Shining Moments

Resident Recognition: Our residents, the very soul of our Ranch, have had a series of achievements this year. Their accomplishments range from academic feats to personal growth. Residents consistently maintain the highest behavior level, while others have shone...

Staff Recognition

Staff Recognition

  In a year marked by challenges across industries, our staff at HOFYR have showcased an exceptional spirit of resilience and dedication. While we faced widespread staffing shortages, the unique demands of our mission made recruitment even more challenging—the need...

End of Summer Update

End of Summer Update

    As we transition from the warmth of summer to the fresh beginnings of fall, it's astonishing to realize that we're already a few weeks into the new school year. The sense of optimism in the air is palpable, and it's due in no small part to the boundless...

Orphan Sunday

Orphan Sunday

  November 13 is Orphan Sunday. It is a day to reflect on the international crisis of 153 Million Orphans worldwide, which would be the 9th largest nation on the planet by population. But it is also a day to assess our commitment to the world's orphans for the next...

Climbing for Kids – Ascending to Your Dreams

Climbing for Kids – Ascending to Your Dreams

  Well, we did it! We took the challenge to climb the highest point in Africa to raise awareness and funds for children who will age out of care without a high school. Every 3 seconds, a child ages out of an orphanage, group home, or foster care. Often, they find...

Celebrating Shining Moments

Celebrating Shining Moments

  It has indeed been a challenging few years for The Ranch. Together, we are recovering from losses to significant family and friends. But it is a new season in many ways. We are now recognized as an At-Risk Group Home for children who have been trafficked or are at...

Hurricane Irma

Hurricane Irma

  I wanted to update you on the Heart of Florida Youth Ranch. This is our seventh day without power.   I am reminded of a point made by General Overseer Tim Hill a few years ago. You are not intended to win in some battles but only survive. I doubt anyone feels...

I Remember His Tears

I Remember His Tears

  I remember his tears. Ethen is a seventeen-year-old boy who has faced over a decade of “the system” in over 20 placements. With tears, he steadied himself and stared directly at me. He said, “You have no idea what it is like to sit in an office with people on the...

The Hurt is this Big

The Hurt is this Big

  The hurt is this big!! Not long ago, I sat with a young lady named Lorie, who was describing her pain and anger. She described a life of abandonment and abuse that culminated in rape. Tears flowed openly as she shared. I asked if she could describe how big is the...

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