Unfunded Need

The Uihlein Recreation Center (UC) celebrates 50 years of providing recreational opportunities to at-risk youth this summer.

But like many 50-year-olds, the UC needs some maintenance. The roof has been patched and repaired many times over the years. But the increasing leaks this past winter have made it clear that the time has come. . . The Uihlein Center needs a new roof!

We are asking your help to ensure that recreation and exercise remain available year-round to boys and girls at YBGR.  As a nationally recognized youth mental health treatment center, Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch seeks to treat the whole person: mind, spirit, and body.

The health benefits of physical activity for children have been well documented, and youth at YBGR are no different. In fact, physical activity and exercise can be even more critical for youth dealing with mental health issues, helping to reduce stress, improve physical fitness, promote cooperative play, and handle the joy of victory and the disappointment of defeat in a safe, supportive environment.

The Uihlein Recreation Center (UC) boasts these amenities:
• Gymnasium
• Bowling Alley
• Swimming Pool
• Locker Rooms
• Exercise Room
• Game Room

The Uihlein Recreation Center provides a venue for recreation and exercise year-round for both youth and staff at YBGR. The UC is also used by community groups for basketball and volleyball tournaments, graduation parties, and swim certifications. Without the UC, physical activity and exercise would be extremely limited for youth at YBGR during the winter months.

Help RAISE THE ROOF FOR UC.

 

The YBGR Activity Fund allows for off-campus outings throughout the year, from ski trips in the winter months to hiking the Beartooth Mountains or floating the Yellowstone River in the summer.  Although these outings are certainly fun for the kids, they are much more than simply an enjoyable outing.

Only boys and girls who are considered “high trust” are allowed to go on these trips.  Special off-campus outings are an earned privilege which give youth an incentive to commit to their treatment plan and work towards getting well. 

In addition, most kids served by YBGR’s programs are considered low income and have not had the opportunity to experience the myriad of recreational opportunities available in Montana.

Finally, physical activity and time in the great outdoors is also particularly beneficial for children dealing with mental health issues.

Consider a gift to support the Activities Fund and continue the tradition of special outdoor adventure for YBGR kids.  Call us for more information on how you can participate.

Yellowstone Academy (YA) is the fully accredited K-12 school located right on YBGR’s scenic campus.  All children in the residential treatment program attend school at YA.

In addition, youth in the Day School Program attend YA.  These are special needs students from the surrounding communities who need a higher level of support to succeed academically.

Over 90% of the children in the Day School Program are considered low income.

The donor-funded YA Backpack Program allows YA teachers and staff to identify students facing food insecurity and send home backpacks filled with nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals for children and their families.

Help us continue to help children and their families receive food assistance by making a donation today, or call us for more information on how you can participate.