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Refuge Ranch has grown from its original four-acre farm in Pawnee to a beautiful 30-acre campus near Sangchris Lake State Park in Rochester. The property includes a two-acre pond for fishing and canoeing, a large indoor riding arena and space for horses, chickens and gardens.
The Daniels have learned that healing from deep trauma does not happen quickly. It takes time, consistency and a community committed to walking alongside children and families for the long term. Some children grow up coming to Refuge Ranch and later return as interns, volunteers, staff members or mentors, helping others experience the same hope and belonging they found here.
The important work of Refuge requires a lasting investment of prayer, relationships and resources, but the transformation is worth it. Through Christ-centered mentoring, meaningful service and the gift of community, God is breaking cycles of trauma and bringing healing, restoration and purpose to children and families.
Refuge Ranch is possible because of a community of volunteers, donors, prayer supporters, sponsors and community advocates. To get involved at Refuge Ranch, email info@refuge-ranch.org or sign up for emails.
Our story
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Empowering at-risk youth, women, and families with the hope of Christ, using equine assisted activities, mentoring, and Christ-centered community.
Refuge Ranch exists to empower and transform at-risk youth and families through Christ, with equine-assisted activities, mentoring, ranch life and community.
While serving for several years in ministry on the south side of Chicago, Stephen and Chris Daniels saw how interaction with animals could break down walls for children who struggled to trust and connect. They envisioned a ministry that combined animals with sharing the Gospel with at-risk youth while making a lasting difference in the lives of children, families and communities.
When they purchased a small horse farm in Central Illinois, they began asking the Lord how the property could help others find hope and healing. A friend introduced them to Crystal Peaks Youth Ranch, a ministry in central Oregon that pairs at-risk youth with rescued horses and equips ranches across the country to do the same.
Inspired by that model, Stephen and Chris founded Refuge Ranch in 2008. What began as a grassroots ministry with a few volunteers, two horses and several children has grown into a peaceful refuge for underserved, at-risk and special needs children and families, many of whom have experienced deep trauma and painful life circumstances.
Today, Refuge Ranch serves children through the Bridges Mentoring Program and Freedom Reins adaptive riding program. The Ranch also partners with local organizations, including the YMCA, The Outlet, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois, Compass for Kids and local schools and foster care agencies. The ranch has also partnered with area businesses who serve as sponsors and a community of generous donors who share a passion for a Christ-centered community that brings healing.