Hope Youth Ranch is an interfaith, Christian-based, residential treatment program for boys between the ages 8 and 17. The Ranch offers troubled and lonely boys an opportunity to mature spiritually, educationally, emotionally and physically. The Ranch is located on a 345-acre farm that raises Angus cattle, horses, and a variety of other animals such as lamas, miniature donkeys, goats, and other small animals.

Hope Youth Ranch Alternative Center is a Parish (County) school licensed by the State of Louisiana. The school is located on Ranch property in the former Evergreen Community School building. Four certified teachers and a teacher’s aid staff the school, along with 16 to 18 Ranch Direct Care Staff. The school’s schedule and curriculum follow state guidelines.

Our philosophy is that any child given an atmosphere of love and a climate that encourages and promotes spiritual development can work to become a productive member of society. The Ranch is founded on the principle that every child deserves an opportunity to live in a safe, secure environment. While our concerns extend to all youth experiencing and struggling through troubled times, our primary focus is bases on issues of neglect, abuse and abandonment. Hope Youth Ranch programs give young men a direction and purpose plus the encouragement to succeed.

There is a great need for immediate and sound staff decision-making when dealing with children in crisis. Consequently, there must be a strong support group of parenting resources and a professional direct care staff. In each bunkhouse there are at least two awake staff on duty at all times. The interrelationship of resources and talents provided by our staff combines to meet the needs of each child and comprises our “family” in action. We promote structure, self-discipline, self-confidence and conscientious work habits. The Ranch is an ideal setting for young men to experience the reality of nature and “Farm Therapy.” Each child is assigned daily chores, including caring for farm animals and farm property.

Hope Youth Ranch, Inc., is a 501 (3) C, nonprofit organization that is a fulfillment of a vision. Our mission is to provide a safe, living structured farm home to troubled and/or boys in need. A mixture of individual and group therapy, strong educational programs, a fully functional farm and opportunities for spiritual nurturing give young men a chance to achieve self-worth, a strong work ethic, and develop a sense of responsibility.