by Erin Austin | Oct 12, 2021 | Houseparent Blog
I have a rescue cat. At the time I got Lilly, I didn’t realize the effects of trauma are similar amongst animals and humans. Don’t get me wrong, people’s brains are far more complex, but the fear, tendency to fight, and distrust are the same. Lilly was dropped off on... 
by Bethany Collins | Sep 30, 2021 | All, Houseparent Blog, Meet Our Team
This month we couldn’t decide what to put on the blog, and as it happens one of the residents helped us come up with something fun to share! In the girls’ cottage we have an “I’m Bored” jar. Every time someone says “I’m bored!” they have to pick a paper... 
by Mandy Nester | Sep 17, 2021 | All, Houseparent Blog
Although I’m not a houseparent, I was invited to contribute to our blog since I work part-time at Joy Ranch. I love being part of the “family”, even though I don’t get to spend nearly enough time with the kids we serve (as a homeschooling mom... 
by Mandy Nester | Sep 9, 2021 | Volunteer News
This summer, a team from Mt. Zion UMC worked hard at Copper Crest Farm, the wonderful facility where our kids engage in horse therapy (and have for years). Pam Umberger was overwhelmed with gratitude that the team was able to complete so many tasks! We are so thankful... 
by Erin Austin | Aug 12, 2021 | All, Houseparent Blog
Community. I’ve been reminded recently how important it is. Sixteen months ago the world shut down due to COVID-19, and although many places have removed all restrictions, places like Joy Ranch are still dealing with regulations which keep us from fully engaging with... by Bethany Collins | Aug 2, 2021 | All, Houseparent Blog
See what we did there? Since we are all still at home having to get creative we thought we would pass along some things we do here that add a little fun – as well as ease and convenience – to the “every day”. Most of these ideas are... 
by Mandy Nester | Jul 23, 2021 | All, News, Volunteer News
This summer has brought back volunteers to Joy Ranch! What a blessing each individual and group has been to our ministry and the kids have loved the extra special attention as well as activities. The North Spartan Baptist Association from Boiling Springs, SC had 18... 
by Mandy Nester | Jun 24, 2021 | News
We’ve been blessed again by Deer Haven Blueberries in Allisonia, VA with fresh blueberries to sell for the cottages! All income goes 100% to the cottages for the kids. Pick them up at Joy Ranch – 4 pints for $10 (that’s a $2 savings). Also available... 
by Mandy Nester | May 25, 2021 | All, News
What’s happening at Joy Ranch now? Check out our May newsletter to find out. Simply click here and view the pdf and please be sure to share with others! 
by Mandy Nester | May 6, 2021 | News
At Joy Ranch, Mother’s Day can be a very hard time for our children so we do not celebrate the holiday in our cottages. They are not with their biological mothers and you can see why that would be upsetting to them. Of course, our kids love their houseparents...
