FLORIDA SHERRIF'S YOUTH RANCH This is a statewide network of
residential childcare facilities, camping program, and community based
counseling for need and neglected youth and their families began in 1957. Originally aimed at boys, it expanded
programs for girls in 1969. Since 1991, in Bradenton, three cottages were set up
on 62 acres. This was a joint venture between the Manatee River Youth Group, the
Kiwanis Club, and the Manatee County Commissioners. According to the President
of the non-profit organization, all of
the children who live on campus come with problems and issues in their
lives. Sometimes these are issues caused
by problems in the family, and sometimes they are caused by the young people
themselves. The goal: education, social skills, work experience,
and life skills. They will make
mistakes, but they are expected to face the consequences. They can do this in a safe and loving
environment at the Ranch, where they can learn by their mistakes. Roser donations in the past have supported individuals attending summer camp. |