West Texas Boys Ranch utilizes a family-based model of care. Boys live in individual homes or “cottages,” with up to eight boys in a cottage and married “cottage couples” who serve as parental role models. Each boy has his own room and enjoys the camaraderie of other boys in the house. Working off of a levels system, each boy can rise to a higher level weekly by being responsible, courteous, helpful, respectful, and kind. Inappropriate behavior can mean a lower level and extra chores while positive behavior is reinforced. In this environment, boys can learn responsibility and help with daily cottage chores as a family unit.
The Boys Ranch offers an enjoyable, yet structured living experience for boys. A well-balanced, study-play-work program develops a sense of responsibility and dependability. The boys attend local public schools and participate in the ranch education program, which provides a Learning Center with computers and a library, and a specific coordinator for their educational needs. Tutors are available to help with homework and basic skills. Many of the boys play on school or community athletic teams, participate in 4-H shows, and learn farming and ranching techniques just like other boys. On the ranch property itself, a number of recreational facilities are available- a pool, tennis courts, gym, playing fields, horseback riding, fishing, and wide open spaces. The Horsebarn program allows for boys to learn about the horses, including how to care for them and how to ride them. They can also help with cattle. Boys also have the opportunity to learn vocational skills and earn spending money for their work on the ranch during the summer with our Work Bell program. Older boys may have the option to work in town as well.
For each boy, a plan of service is designed to address specific needs. A family visitation schedule is developed that is best suited for each boy and his family. One of the goals is to reunite the boys with their families if and when possible. West Texas Boys Ranch encourages a minimum stay of one year because this gives the boys, their families, and our staff an opportunity to make progress. West Texas Boys Ranch partners with West Texas Counseling and Guidance to provide various levels of counseling depending on each boy's needs during their stay. The Ranch can also provide career counseling for boys when they graduate from high school. College scholarships and vocational training are available through the West Texas Boys Ranch Foundation. Many of our alumni move on to college, to the military, and find successful careers in a variety of fields. At West Texas Boys Ranch the hearts are big and the sky’s the limit!
