Thrilled to announce $1.25 million in grants from the State of Montana 872 Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission. The funds are for improvements to ten buildings directly serving youth in the residential program and for the re-opening of three lodges to further increase services. Work will begin this fall with the expansion of services within the next year and a half.
What's New
MEET KIDD!
Meet Kidd, the latest four-hoofed therapist to join our YBGR family! Kidd is a 13-year-old sorrel gelding who will participate in both Equine Therapy and recreational riding. Can’t wait to see the strides the youth will make with Kidd by their side!
YBGR CENSUS!
YBGR’s Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility has reached a youth census as high as 95 this summer, the highest it’s been in decades!
This increase was thanks to staff recruitment and retention initiatives that allowed for the re-opening of a youth lodge. Shout out to all the dedicated staff at YBGR making a difference in young lives.
TIPI
As part of the Montana History class and Native American Services Program this summer, youth at the Ranch set up a traditional tipi, connecting with the heritage of the Cheyenne, Lakota, and Crow peoples. The tipi was up throughout the break—and it even made it through the wild storm hitting the Billings area!
This hands-on project has been a great way for our students to engage with history in a meaningful way. Stay tuned for more updates!
BOTTLE FEEDING
This summer at YBGR, our Ranch Manager Gary and Ranch Hand Alli have been bottle-feeding three adorable calves! These moments of care and dedication showcase the commitment of our team, not just for YBGR’s herd, but for the youth in their care. Just as these calves need support, we all need a helping hand in life.
WELCOME ALLI!
Welcome Alli Allen, YBGR’s new Ranch Hand! Starting as a Mental Health Worker, Alli now combines her love for kids and cattle, drawing from her experience growing up on a feedlot. She assists Ranch Manager Gary Adams with the care of 100 Black Angus cow/calf pairs and 200 feeder calves, taking charge when Gary’s on the road.
Alli also manages the highly sought-after youth work crews, especially during calving season. Welcome, Alli!
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLIES
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Thanks to a generous $5,000 donation from Stockman Bank, every dollar you give towards back-to-school supplies for Yellowstone Academy students will be matched. This means your contribution will go twice as far in helping special needs youth get the tools they need for academic success. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a bigger difference—donate now!
FISHING
This summer youth at YBGR, the youth have been able to enjoy peaceful and rewarding fishing trips! These experiences bring relaxation, joy, and valuable life lessons in patience and perseverance.
SUMMER ADVENTURES
Summer out at YBGR has been full of outdoor adventures! The youth have enjoyed camping, hiking, biking, and fishing in Montana’s stunning outdoors. Visits to Yellowstone National Park have inspired awe and wonder. These activities help build confidence, foster healing, and create lasting memories.
CHAPEL UPDATE
The iconic Franklin & Merle Robbie Chapel recently received a new roof, siding and fresh paint. We are so grateful to long time donors that support YBGR’s Spiritual Life Program, it truly is an integral program for youth served on campus. Thank You!
THANK YOU SCHEELS!
Big thanks to Scheels for helping to fuel adventures at YBGR! Their support of the Recreation Therapy Program has provided needed apparel and equipment for both outdoor and indoor activities. Leslie Jochems and Melissa Brumit visited the Ranch recently to tour and see their gifts in action. Join us in gratitude!
ADVENTURES ON BIKE
This summer, youth out at YBGR have been hitting the trails and experiencing the thrill of biking through Montana’s breathtaking landscapes! Adventures help these youth build confidence, foster determination, and create unforgettable memories.