The programs
The treatment programs offered by Ranch Ehrlo Society are based on four cornerstones.
- Clinical Treatment
- Education
- Work
- Recreation
These four components provide the youth with the opportunity to participate in a program which has been developed to focus on all aspects of their lives. The following information provides a brief definition of each area.
Clinical treatment
Clinical case managers are employed to provide individual counselling, specialized group work discharge planning and follow-up, family work, and other counselling. They ensure communications between the Ranch, parents, and various referral agencies.
Treatment begins by creating an environment that is safe and predictable, under the supervision of committed staff. Youth are provided the opportunities to learn new problem solving and coping skills within a safe and supportive environment that is free from punishment. Discipline focuses on ensuring safety, teaching values, learning responsibility, and providing education about alternative choices.
Psychiatric consultation, psychological services, and social casework are provided for each child as may be required
Education
Most youth coming to Ranch Ehrlo have had little success in school. Frustration and failure have often led to anger or withdrawal. As a result, they are no longer interested in learning. To meet this challenge, we offers some choices.
The Ranch-operated Schaller and Ellen Gunn Education Centres are responsible for both an on-site educational program as well as looking after students who are attending local schools. Incoming students are evaluated and a plan is developed to help them with their education.
As students progress, and once their behaviours have changed, they are moved to a classroom in city schools under the supervision of a teacher and assistant employed by the Ranch. This is where the student can begin to adjust to what will be required in a regular school. The only difference in these classrooms is that the number of students is kept small in order to provide more individual attention for each student.
Other programs are offered to help high school students. A Ranch-employed teacher, or assistant, works with all the teachers who have students from Ranch Ehrlo in their classrooms. If problems arise, this person is available to provide assistance to both the student and teacher.
Work
Work placements for the youth at the Ranch are many and varied, depending upon age, maturity, and ability. For some of the youth, work may involve household chores. For others, work can take the form of paid part-time employment.
The Ranch also offers a supportive employment program. This program was developed to teach youth what is expected from an employer: such things as being on time, getting along with others and maintaining positive attitudes about the work place. Once the youth has achieved a certain level of security in this program, he or she may be moved into a community placement.
Recreation
Recreational programs such as tobogganing, floor hockey, or a trip to the beach are designed to add to the treatment process. Such activities are not only fun, but help youth to
develop relationships, sharing skills, individual talents, and team participation.
Ranch Ehrlo also provides a number of group learning opportunities during evening hours. These programs are designed to enhance social, recreational, cultural, and creative skills. Some examples of these programs include:
- Craft and Art Workshops
- Horse Care and Riding Training
- Ranch Ehrlo Pow Wow and Drumming and Singing Group
- Special Olympics Program
- Sports and Action Programs
- Special Events
- Annual Events
Parents and family members are welcomed and encouraged to attend these events with their children.
