About six years ago, I met a guy named Todd Vinson. Todd is one of the most incredible people I have met in my life because he has dedicated his life to serving others. In particular, he has a heart for helping teenage boys who are displaced or whose families are in crisis by providing a long-term home solution where they will be properly cared for.
This happens at Willow Springs Boys Ranch in Chandler, Oklahoma. I've had the privilege of visiting the ranch several times and am just amazed at the work that is being done to help these boys have an opportunity at a life that they may never have had previously.
Todd seems to me to be a modern day George Mueller. Since the boy's ranch is a non-profit organization, it takes a great deal of finances and resources to make everything run smoothly. But like Mueller, Todd does not spend time soliciting funds. Rather, he totally trusts that God will provide for all the needs of the camp.
And provide He does...
Spend a few minutes with Todd and he will begin to tell story upon story of how the ranch was in need of a certain item... bricks for the new building... a ride-in mower to trim the large acreage... funding for a new project... and you will find out that these things seem to miraculously appear effortlessly. Todd's stories are faithbuilding, and as you get to know him you get the sense that you are with someone who is learning to depend on God for absolutely everything, including his daily bread.
How refreshing to find someone of such faith in a day and age where faith is so readily mocked.
Along with several homes housing approximately twenty boys, the ranch also has a full retreat center complete with a ropes course. Called Jacob's Ladder, the retreat center and course are open to high school and college athletics groups, youth groups, service groups, mission teams, couples and families retreats, rites of passage retreats, and corporate retreats.
It's a fascinating ministry and one worthy of support. While Todd will not ask anyone for a dime, I have no problem recommending that a donation to Willow Springs Boy's Ranch would be money well spent.
To contribute a tax-deductible donation to the boy's ranch, simply click the Paypal button.
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June 15, 2006 09:40 AM
Joel,
Due to personal Mission and Depth Phase taking shape in our lives recently, would very much like to know if either you or Todd know of a similarly modeled Girls Ranch? Very interested also in learning more about the template being utilized at Todd's successful ranch. Gratefully, Colleen
June 23, 2006 01:29 AM
I have a 12 year old troubled adolescent. He has a problem with authority, self-control, and I have been struggling with these problems for the past three years and they are progressively getting worse the more he ages.
I have been searching for boys homes, ranches, etc...and cannot find anything. Could you please help me?
-Melissa Goodson
February 6, 2007 02:43 PM
I would like some info on Willow Springs ranch in chandler ok
October 25, 2008 06:58 AM
Hi! My husband and I have an air hocky table that is in new condition that we would like to donate to a "boys home". If you are interested we would gladly deliver it to you. We live in Dover, OK and thought maybe it would be a good Christmas gift for some special kids.
Thanks!