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| A Whole Life Continuum -- Family is Forever | ||
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The HCYR Medallion, drawn above, was crafted by jewelry designer James Avery in 1982. At a special ceremony, it is given to resident children after 2 years of living at HCYR. It symbolizes lifetime membership in the Youth Ranch family, and is a treasured icon of alumni.
HCYR alumna Jennifer Herron '92, blows a kiss to Youth Ranch family members attending her college graduation ceremony at Baylor University in Waco in 2003. Jennifer was supported in her college endeavors, for two years in special studies at Harvard University, and during her undergraduate work at Baylor, by the HCYR scholarship fund and by other Youth Ranch donors. As many as 30 alumni at a time receive such support during their college studies. |
A "family" can only live up to the term if it addresses both the age-appropriate needs of its children, as well as their entire life span -- from childhood through the stages of adulthood, providing nurture and support during all of them without any preset "cut-off" points. State budget rules force the end of financial support when a child ward "ages out" or graduates from high school. But that is just the beginning of a life that still needs a supporting family. For 30 years HCYR has proven its commitment to stay the course with each of its graduates. Much of the HCYR website is devoted to our commitment to age-appropriate wholeness opportunities for children, ages 5 to 18, so that they have their needs met emotionally, physically, mentally, psychologically and spiritually, as they grow during childhood. What is also important to know is that HCYR is committed to its alums throughout their lifetimes, and that story is also laced throughout the website. HCYR begins building a life-time relationship with children long before they graduate. Establishing a Family Relationship. After two years in residence, HCYR presents a special medallion signifying lifetime membership in the Youth Ranch family. The ceremony is formal, and the medallion (drawing at left) has been treasured by graduates for 30 years. As children grow older, a team works with teenagers to provide them with training for adult living, and a counselor works with each senior on applications to college. Preparations for Adulthood. Every summer, HCYR provides a vocational work program for its youths, designed to teach the work ethic and provide skills during these transitional years. HCYR also provides classes on life skills such as opening and balancing a checking account, job search and interview techniques, apartment hunting, money management, safety, personal health care, and more. HCYR regards this training as a fundamental legacy which must be given to youths during these preparatory years. A Career Conference is hosted each summer for students on both campuses to further add to their awareness of potential vocational paths. HCYR alumni are invited as guest speakers, along with other community professionals. Privileges of Belonging. Each HCYR graduate becomes an automatic member of the HCYR Alumni Association, entitling them to college scholarships, emergency financial aid and other benefits, such as returning to take vacations at the Alumni Retreat House or attending Reunions (right). These are all programs designed to do what families do, and that's to never stop being involved. Annual banquets and reunions provide excitement and keep bonds alive. The Alumnae House, built near a waterfall in a remote canyon at BSRC, is maintained year-round for visits from graduates and their families. Christmas cards go out each year, with a modest gift enclosed to further nourish communication. Measuring Success. Letters home from alumni provide an ongoing report to family and friends back at the Ranch. These letters are archived through publication in the Corral newsletter, as are stories about individual alums published regularly. Over times, our alumni are validating that the Youth Ranch has played a significant role in their successes, and the family aspect of the Ranch program is clearly among its most important components. |
Barry Adelman '83, is an excellent example of a Youth Rancher succeeding in the world, both professionally and as a family man. Barry recently brought his wife and three daughters for a week at the Retreat House, shown below.
Alumni Retreat House -- In a secluded valley, overlooking a waterfall and stream, off the beaten trail at the 7,000-acre Big Springs Ranch, the Youth Ranch built a retreat house that sleeps 10, where alumni can bring families and friends for getaways.
Reunions -- A group of Youth Ranchers from the 80s and 90s gathered in 2002 for a 25-year Ranch Reunion. The group shared memories, laughs and tear-filled moments. HCYR maintains an alumni association to facilitate networking.  Adult Living Training Conferences -- HCYR Alumni return frequently to help share basic adult living skills with teenagers living at the Ranch. A summer Career Week features alumni speakers and workshops in budgeting, job searches, and other adult living requirements. |
