by Bethany Collins | Oct 11, 2022 | Houseparent Blog
Often, in House-parenting, one finds themselves saying things they wouldn’t normally say. A combination of words you never imagined to hear used consecutively, and probably never will again. For example: “Sit down and eat your lunch. No one needs to... 
by Mandy Nester | Oct 4, 2022 | All, Houseparent Blog
The Joy Ranch family was able to enjoy a trip to Myrtle Beach in September, thankfully before Hurricane Ian passed through. Our gracious hosts at Garden City Chapel and Retreat incurred significant damage in the storm, so please keep them in your prayers as they clean... 
by Mandy Nester | Aug 11, 2022 | All, Volunteer News
We’ve been blessed to host several couples for four months now from Roving Volunteers in Christ’s Service (rvics.org), and they’re not finished yet! Instead of trying to recap all they’ve done and experienced, we have permission to share their... 
by Bethany Collins | Jul 28, 2022 | All, Houseparent Blog
One of the more challenging tasks (of many) that houseparents navigate is welcoming a new resident. Leaving home is hard, for any reason. Coming to a new place where you don’t know anyone is hard, even for a few hours – never mind having to live there. New rules... 
by Mandy Nester | Jul 15, 2022 | News
What’s going on this summer at Joy Ranch? Click here to view our latest newsletter and find out. 
by Mandy Nester | Jul 12, 2022 | All, Houseparent Blog
Recently, Mrs. Lynn shared with me some pictures of Ava who had planted some peas earlier this spring. Each child had an opportunity to choose and plant some garden vegetables, and Ava must love peas! I believe Lynn said she had planted 40 plants and one day last week... 
by Erin Austin | Jun 14, 2022 | Houseparent Blog
Recently I, along with another staff and two kiddos, took a Bob Ross painting class. This wouldn’t be such a big deal if I was good at art, but my running joke has been that I can’t draw a stick person straight. To willingly take a painting class was no small thing.... 
by Mandy Nester | Jun 14, 2022 | Volunteer News
The Mt. Zion UMC mission team which was here June 3rd – 6th. In two and a half days, they reworked the deck behind McHenry, rebuilt the six picnic tables, reworked the deck at the Director’s house, pressure washed the deck behind the Administrative Office, plus... 
by Mandy Nester | Jun 2, 2022 | Houseparent Blog
This verse comes (James 4:14) to mind for several reasons at this time of year for this house dad. My father passed away a couple of years ago and 10 years ago a young lady we worked with as a youth pastor passed away at age 16. One of our kids from here at Joy Ranch... 
by Mandy Nester | May 16, 2022 | Houseparent Blog
Several months ago, the kids and I started having weekly exercise time together. Sometimes, we play softball, basketball, or kickball. Other times, we play games or set up rotating stations. Whatever we do, we try to keep it fun, engaging, and include everyone. A few...
