About Us

“I believe every child should have the chance to accomplish what is in their mind and heart to accomplish. In many cases, this is only possible when we act as the hands and feet of the Lord and give our time, energy, money and life to see it happen.”

Vicki Ellis, Heritage Ranch Executive Director

This philosophy, shared by Heritage Ranch board members, staff and financial partners is a foundational belief of our ministry. We believe that inherently children have the desire to live in a way that will bless their family, friends and community while leaving a unique mark on society. Unfortunately circumstances beyond their control often attempt to steal the hope that would inspire them to pursue their dreams.  

Since its inception in 2003, Heritage Ranch staff and board members have worked toward a single objective, founding a residential Christian Children’s Home in the Greater Baton Rouge Region for local youth and families in crisis.  The launching point for this mission has been to find the land on which to build our program. In March 2010, Heritage Ranch signed a contract on a 52-acre site, with pasture, horse barn, covered arena, guest house and main house with garage apartment. The home is of a quality one would be proud to offer to a child; the land is sufficient to serve our long term ranch goals, and the location is excellent. With this property, we will offer a secure residential environment for children.

In order to secure this property, we are launching a Capital Campaign to raise 1.8 million dollars in the fall of 2010. We will be engaging the support of individuals, corporations and foundations in the community to partner with us to make this resource for the Baton Rouge Region a reality.

"As a committed supporter of this organization, I would like to encourage anyone interested in a fine Christian children's home to help make Heritage Ranch a success. I will continue to help the organization reach its goal in bringing Heritage Ranch into maturity. Please join me in making this program a success."

John W. Barton, Sr., Board of Advisors

With a successful outcome, we will be positioned to apply for state licensing and work toward opening of our facility.  Our campus will serve boys 13-17, from the Greater Baton Rouge area while they work to resolve personal and/or family crises they are facing. We will provide housing, educational support and counseling, empowering youth to regain personal stability and work toward family reunification. We believe that regardless of the situation, support, training and time will bring healing and reunification to broken families. 
 
From January 2006 – May 2010, Heritage Ranch provided Life Skills, mentoring, and service learning programs in the local public school system and in the community through summer camp programs.  Our track record for effective programming and outcome has been established in the community and we have received the support of individuals, corporations, and local foundations.  We have established a strong and qualified staff, a strong governing body, and are confident in our ability to implement this residential program once funds are in place.

It is our goal to become a non-profit agency in the Greater Baton Rouge community that is associated with strong governance and effective youth programming.  We are asking you to partner with us with the end in mind.  When we invest in the lives of young people, we are ensuring a healthier and more successful future for our community.

…Because every child should inherit hope.
 

About Us