As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Ranch Ehrlo Society this year, we do so reflecting not only on the growth of programs and services, but also on the thousands of lives that have been transformed here.

Because of privacy laws that protect the youth participants we serve, we can’t share the photos that so often capture the spirit of Ranch Ehrlo – the child smiling ear to ear after catching their first fish, the celebratory hugs after a first medal at Awards Night, or the funny faces mirrored in a staff selfie. But through this Faces of the Ranch series, we hope to paint a picture of who we serve, who we work alongside, and what has been made possible through the community built over the past six decades.

We’re fortunate to share the face and story of David Sangwais, a long-time adult participant in Ranch Ehrlo’s Supported Living Program (SLP). David has agreed to share his experience, reflecting on his time at Ranch Ehrlo and how it’s become a significant part of his life’s story.

David joined Ranch Ehrlo many moons ago and, over the years, has built a strong network of trusted and beloved friends. The agency, in the way David describes it, has become part of who he is. It’s an abstract concept because it isn’t so much a place as it is an influence: being the source of accommodation, support, health and lifestyle, education, work, and relationships. It’s where friendships have been formed, lessons have been learned, and growth has occurred.

When asked what his favourite thing about Ranch Ehrlo is, David candidly shared that it’s the network of care and support he’s become part of.

“Everybody is supporting everybody and helping out,” he said from his suite in Regina.

David lives in a home with one other adult participant and is supported by a team of staff. During the day, he works in the Supported Employment Program (SEP), one of Ranch Ehrlo’s vocational programs.

It’s within this space that David spends much of his time catering at Sweet Grass Café, an internal initiative designed to provide life skills and meaningful work opportunities to participants. When David is finished working and learning for the day, he spends his free time like many young adults— enjoying movie nights, picking up pizza with friends, or catching up with his roommate, Joey.

A large part of his life is also dedicated to Special Olympics. Special O has been a major part of David’s journey, having joined 28 years ago. He proudly displays medals and trophies that represent his accomplishments and the relationships he’s built through sport.

This year, David has been spending much of his time at baseball practice, preparing for a trip to Medicine Hat, where he’ll compete against athletes from across Canada. And when he’s not on the baseball field, you can find him participating in track and field on Sundays.

David said he loves Special O because he enjoys being around people and values the opportunity to keep learning, though he admits motivation doesn’t always come easily.

“Sometimes I don’t want to do it, but I encourage myself to go. I like the interaction…[and] trying to push myself.”

While David has learned many things and has grown considerably during his time at Ranch Ehrlo, one of the most admirable skills he has strengthened is his ability to work and communicate with different people and personalities. Alongside that growth, his leadership skills have flourished through his work at Sweet Grass Café.

“They call me the supervisor because I’m always not staying in one spot,” he laughed.

David’s world has been built around the community at Ranch Ehrlo. From his coworkers and roommate to support staff and the many people he interacts with daily, much of his life is connected to the agency and the programs that help him thrive.

“The residents of the Ranch have the opportunity to create better lives for themselves,” founder Dr. Geoff Pawson wrote in his book Go Forward with Pride. “The youth have been provided experiences and information during their stay that can lead to long-lasting change for them personally.”

It’s fair to conclude that this is true for David, and that the Ranch will have a long-lasting and incredible impact on his life.

“I would say Ranch Ehrlo is now part of my family,” he smiled.

SLP was first introduced to Ranch Ehrlo in the 1980s. The program provides group living, educational, and vocational supports to people with multiple and complex developmental needs. Care and support are grounded in person-centred and strength-based approaches and provide a meaningful continuum of care to young adults experiencing disability.  

As part of our 60th anniversary, guests are invited to take part in a self-guided history experience at the Kesten Centre during our 9th annual powwow on August 27. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. with the start of the feast, the space will remain open throughout the day for visitors to come and go. 

The Kesten Centre will feature a history museum highlighting the past 60 years, celebrating the history, achievements, and stories that have shaped the Ranch. Former youth, staff, and their families, along with community partners, are encouraged to attend. If you plan to attend, you’re welcome to RSVP by emailing  ranchehrlo.news@ranchehrlo.ca.