The Ben Richey Boys Ranch & Family Program, an institution with a rich 75-year history in Abilene, Texas, has evolved significantly from its humble beginnings as a boys ranch. While its commitment to helping children remains steadfast, the organization has expanded its reach to address the growing needs of single-mother families through the Ben Richey Family Care Program. This innovative program provides a beacon of hope and stability for single mothers and their children, offering not just housing, but a comprehensive support system designed to foster independence and long-term success.
Founded in 1947 by Ben and Jamie Richey, the organization started as a 350-acre ranch on the outskirts of Abilene, dedicated to providing a nurturing environment for boys in need. Over the decades, the ranch adapted to changing community needs, and in 2009, the Ben Richey Family Care Program was launched, marking a pivotal moment in its history. Today, nestled off Treadaway Boulevard, the now 80-acre campus reflects this evolution, with facilities dedicated to both boys and families. The core philosophy, however, remains unchanged, as poignantly stated on a plaque in the main office: “No person stands so tall as when they stoop to help a child.” This enduring principle guides all aspects of the ranch’s work, particularly the impactful Ben Richey Family Care Program.
Kerry Fortune, who has served as president of the ranch since 1996, has been instrumental in guiding these transformations, including the establishment and growth of the Ben Richey Family Care Program. Under his leadership, the ranch has navigated significant shifts, always prioritizing the well-being of those it serves. One key decision was in 1997 to focus exclusively on private placements for boys, allowing for more tailored and effective care. This strategic move, while initially involving financial adjustments, ultimately strengthened the ranch’s ability to deliver quality services. However, recognizing the evolving needs of the community, Fortune spearheaded the development of the Ben Richey Family Care Program, a response to the increasing number of single-mother families requiring support.
The Ben Richey Family Care Program emerged as a direct response to the growing need for family-focused support services. Recognizing a gap in available resources, the ranch expanded its mission to include single mothers and their children. This program acknowledges that supporting mothers is crucial to creating stable and nurturing environments for children. The program’s foundation is built on providing safe housing and equipping mothers with essential life skills.
In its initial phase, the Ben Richey Family Care Program established two group homes, thoughtfully designed to offer private bedrooms and bathrooms for each family while fostering a sense of community through shared dining and living spaces. This model provides a balance of privacy and mutual support, crucial for single mothers navigating new paths. These group homes serve as an initial stepping stone, offering a supportive environment where mothers can begin to rebuild their lives.
A significant component of the Ben Richey Family Care Program is its comprehensive life skills training. Recognizing that sustainable independence requires more than just housing, the program incorporates practical education in key areas such as budgeting, employment readiness, and household management. Mothers actively participate in maintaining their homes, including housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and clean-up. This hands-on approach empowers them to develop essential skills for independent living. Supervisors are on hand not as managers, but as mentors, guiding and supporting the mothers as they learn to manage their households and finances effectively. The aim is to instill not just skills, but also confidence and self-reliance.
As mothers demonstrate their ability to manage their families and maintain stability, the Ben Richey Family Care Program offers a pathway to further independence through transitional housing. Ten private houses on the Abilene campus, constructed between 2018 and 2022, provide the next stage of housing. These homes offer a more independent living setting while still providing access to the ranch’s support network. The opportunity to reside in these homes until their youngest child graduates high school offers long-term stability, a critical factor in breaking cycles of poverty and instability. Remarkably, some of the boys from the boys ranch program participated in the construction of these homes, fostering a sense of community and mutual support across the different programs within the ranch.
The website for Ben Richey Boys Ranch & Family Program succinctly captures the core objective of the Ben Richey Family Care Program: “It is the goal of the Family Program that when the mother leaves our program, she is able to support herself and her child(ren) without help from someone else.” This statement underscores the program’s commitment to long-term empowerment, aiming to equip mothers with the tools and resources needed to achieve lasting self-sufficiency.
While the Ben Richey Family Care Program focuses on single mothers and children, the Ben Richey Boys Ranch continues to serve individual boys. The Abilene campus includes a home for six boys, and the Albany campus, established in 2004, can house twelve boys, currently accommodating six. The Albany campus, located in a rural setting, offers a different environment, allowing boys to participate in FFA and 4-H programs, broadening their experiences and opportunities. Both campuses utilize a house parent model, with married couples providing a stable and nurturing family environment for the boys in their care.
The operation of the Ben Richey Boys Ranch & Family Program, including the Ben Richey Family Care Program, relies heavily on the generosity of donors. Fundraising is a continuous effort, with support coming from individuals and organizations across Texas. Nancy Roberts, Vice President for Donor Relations, emphasizes the consistent community support, stating, “When we have a need, we seem to always have someone who is willing to help out.” Various fundraising events throughout the year contribute to the ranch’s financial stability, including the Outlaws and Legends Music Festival, Clay Break Classic, Abilene Music Awards, Long Ear Benefit Trail Ride, and the Chili Super Bowl. These events not only raise crucial funds but also raise awareness about the vital work of the ranch and the Ben Richey Family Care Program.
The legacy of Ben and Jamie Richey continues to inspire the work of the ranch and its Ben Richey Family Care Program. Their vision, born in 1947, of providing care for children in need has expanded to encompass families, reflecting a commitment to addressing contemporary societal needs while upholding the founding principles. The ranch celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2022, a testament to its enduring impact on the Abilene community. Curtis Davis, the first boy placed at the ranch, shared his experiences at the anniversary brunch, highlighting the long-term positive influence of the organization.
In conclusion, the Ben Richey Family Care Program stands as a testament to the Ben Richey Boys Ranch & Family Program’s ongoing commitment to evolving and meeting the needs of the Abilene community. By providing comprehensive support to single mothers and their children, the program not only offers immediate assistance but also invests in long-term family stability and self-sufficiency. As Nancy Roberts aptly noted, the children and families served by the ranch are “great kids… they just haven’t been in a good situation.” The Ben Richey Family Care Program is dedicated to changing those situations, one family at a time, ensuring a brighter future for mothers and children in Abilene.
