Christian Peterson
ECB Publishing, Inc.
The Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches are a unique but successful program run throughout the state of Florida. From its humble beginnings in Live Oak to a statewide program, the ranch is a testament to the care Florida has for its many children. In 1957, a group of sheriffs observed there was a need for a residential care facility for troubled boys. Together, with a small amount of cash and a dream to attain, the group used their brains and abilities to make it a reality. Before they knew it, the group was beginning to help young boys become productive, responsible adults. The first boys ranch was created and settled in Live Oak.
The vision of the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches is to “prevent delinquency and develop lawful, resilient and productive citizens.” They value children first, as well as quality, integrity, stewardship and character as they strive to build “successful youth and staff through the development of positive character traits.”
The program quickly became a success and began taking off all over the state. In fact, it became such a well-known program that, in the early 1960s, Elvis Presley donated a house from his movie, “Oh What A Wonderful Life.” The Live Oak campus also grew at an incredible rate.
Today, the Boys Ranch is a co-ed location. It can hold up to 82 boys and girls from the ages of three to 20. The children are allowed to partake in a plethora of activities, including swimming, baseball, volleyball, canoeing and arts and crafts. On top of all that, each child goes to school either on campus or in the Suwannee County School District. They also all participate in a structured work program.
The Donald Ralph Cooke School, located at the ranch, is focused on studying, and is built on four pillars of work, study, play and pray. The school features smaller class sizes, personalized learning plans and even allows access to alternative degree options.
Eventually, the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches program grew until there were four residential co-ed childcare facilities and two camping programs. The locations include the Boys Ranch in Live Oak, the Youth Camp in Barberville, the Youth Ranch in Safety Harbor, the Youth Villa in Bartow, the Caruth Camp in Inglis/Yankeetown and Camp Sorensen in Hilliard. For more information about the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches, visit youthranches.org or call (800) 765-3797.
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