When you first move into a house, an apartment, or any living space, it’s empty and full of promise. You can make it whatever you want. It’s those personalized additions – your photos, the dog hair on the couch, or the sound of your family laughing together in the living room – that transforms a house into a home.

Ranch Ehrlo’s group homes are no exception. When our youth first move into one of our houses, they may feel like it’s not home. But we strive to change that perception, because for as long as they live there, we want them to feel like they have a second home.

Youth can personalize their bedrooms by hanging up artwork or photos that are unique to their personalities and make them feel comfortable. Every morning before school they’re met by a friendly house parent who makes them delicious and nutritious breakfast and gets them excited about the day to come.

When they return from school, they’re greeted by one of our youth care workers to talk about the good and bad parts of their day while enjoying a snack – just like they would at home.

Supper is also homemade by a houseparent, and everyone eats together in a family-like atmosphere.

Like many other kids, our youth are given a weekly allowance. They can spend it however they want.

We also offer plenty of opportunities for our youth to keep in touch with their families, whether it be through home visits, letter writing or email, or phone calls.

We strive to ensure our youth feel safe, loved, and cared for at all times – and sometimes, it’s something as simple as those feelings that will transform a house into a home.