The children who come to the Ranch have often come from chaos and crisis. Many have learned to be hypervigilant and alert for danger or unfulfilled needs. When they come to the Ranch, life is largely consistent and predictable. We serve meals at reliable times, and always have enough food. Therapy, groups, school, and chapel are all dependably scheduled.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not rigid. We adapt and accommodate. These are children, after all. They have time to play and “just be kids,” but they don't have to wonder what surprise is coming next.
When children leave our care, the world is less predictable, and they must use all their newly learned skills. Their families, often new foster, kinship, or adoptive families, must navigate the many support services their child needs. Therapy, medical appointments, school, and church all require planning and follow-through. It’s a lot.
That’s where the Ranch's Aftercare Program comes in. When a child comes to the Ranch, one of the people on their treatment team is a Care Coordinator. The Care Coordinator meets with the child and the people who will care for them when they leave. The Care Coordinator learns about resources in the community to which the child will be going. They also learn about the child and their ongoing needs. They become a trusted advocate.
For six months after a child leaves the Ranch, their Care Coordinator walks alongside them and their family to help ensure they are successful outside of treatment. They help the family make and keep appointments. They find activities and supports that fit the child’s circumstances. They provide a listening ear and support for the child and their family as they navigate the inevitable ups and downs. After six months, the transition is better stabilized and the family can manage going forward. Not without challenges or setbacks, but with tools and resources.
Recently, Shaina Vanyo, a Social Worker and Care Coordinator who started at the Ranch in 2017, completed the six-month Aftercare period with Theo and his family. Theo, a young boy with great energy and good humor, had been in care on our Minot Campus. Shaina sent out this update to Ranch staff at the close of her last meeting with Theo.
“Theo was discharged from Seegers Cottage in November. Since being discharged he has had some ups and downs but overall, he has done well in the home and community. Anyone who knew Theo knows his love for basketball. As we prepare for his upcoming discharge from the Aftercare Program, we wanted to get Theo something he could both enjoy and benefit from. Basketball is not only one of Theo's favorite activities, but it has also been a great coping tool for him so getting a basketball hoop for his home seemed like a no-brainer. I surprised him with it yesterday, and as he smiled from ear to ear, he said, 'I've never had a hoop of my own.' :')"
"We spent our visit setting it up, and it was not easy. The instructions called for "two capable adults," and we joked that that's the piece we were missing 😂 As soon as we got it set up, Theo showed off his trick shots and talked about inviting the neighbors over. I'm so grateful we were able to purchase this for him and I know it'll be put to good use! Theo wouldn't be where he is now if it weren't for everyone on this team. Thank you for all you do—your hard work does not go unnoticed❤️”
As the hard work of the staff at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch does not go unnoticed, neither does your support. Your gifts and prayers allow us to further the success of kids like Theo. Thank you.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
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