We help the most troubled, complicated, and amazing kids by providing best-in-class psychiatric therapy and trauma-informed care, where we look kids in the eye, walk with them, and help them become their best selves.
In addition to Residential Treatment Facilities in Fargo, Bismarck, and Minot, the Ranch provides Outpatient Psychiatric and Psychological Services, and Spiritual Life Programs. Our on-campus school, Dakota Memorial School (DMS), provides a personalized education for kids who have psychiatric, behavioral, and trauma issues.
With the help of highly trained and qualified staff readily available 24/7, children at the Ranch have a structured and safe environment in which to live, learn, and heal. Our staff teach children the skills needed to lead productive, satisfying, and purposeful lives.
At Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, children have access to resources they can't get anywhere else. Our on-site clinical staff includes therapists, nurses, psychologists, addiction counselors, occupational therapists, and a psychiatrist. We also work with primary medical providers at each location to provide medical care. In addition to prescribed therapy services, children can participate in our Horse Program, wellness and recreational activities, and a greenhouse technology program.
While they are with us, children receive a quality education through Dakota Memorial School, our on-campus school that specializes in creating a successful learning environment for children with special psychiatric and behavioral needs.
Located in Minot, Bismarck, and Fargo, Dakota Family Services provides outpatient therapy, psychological testing, and medication management. Outpatient therapy and psychological testing are provided by licensed therapists and psychologists. Our on-staff psychiatrist provides medication management and consults with therapists and psychologists when appropriate.
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch is accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and licensed by the state of North Dakota. Our on-site school, Dakota Memorial School, is accredited by Cognia. Our rigorous accreditation standards ensure our students receive the highest level of education.
We are also a Recognized Service Organization of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), an affiliated Social Ministry Organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), a Mission Partner of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC), a founding member of Lutheran Services in America (LSA), and a Partner Ministry of the North American Lutheran Church (NALC).
The Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Program Board of Directors oversees our programs, and our Foundation Board oversees our fundraising operations. Funding for our programs is derived from many sources, including a percentage of fees for services, the sale of goods donated to our thrift stores, gifts from donors, special events, memorials and honorariums, and friends who list the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in their wills and estates.