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The reality of children in the DHS system is that once they turn 18-years old, they "age out" and must move out on their own. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has determined nationally that within two to four years of "aging out" of the government system, only 50% of youth completed high school, fewer than half had jobs, one-third had been incarcerated and 25% had been homeless for at least one night.
This is why, with all its initial success, it is so important for Peppers Ranch to not only enlarge its capacity to serve boys in need, but to also create a transitional approach in sending its young men out into the world with a sense of confidence and adequate preparation.
Transitional housing will include four, two-bedroom apartments where young men, 18-years and older, who are either attending college or working full-time and paying rent can transition more naturally from Peppers Ranch into complete independent living.
Each apartment will have its own living room and kitchen where roommates will learn to work in cooperation and maintain a greater level of independence, but still have opportunities to see and visit with their former House families. In this way, young men will be given the opportunity to "grow into" a future of success, rather than feeling "cast out" because they have become "too old" at age 18.
Especially since the Ranch seeks to teach young men what it means to be loving and considerate to others, the addition of transitional living apartments seems an essential next step for the Peppers Ranch campus.
Transitional Living Apartments - Floor Plan A
MULTI-PURPOSE LEARNING CENTER:
Intellectual and academic growth is an important aspect of each young man's development at Peppers Ranch. Many incoming boys struggle with basic reading and writing skills and are frustrated with failing grades or other aspects of school. Our program staff and house parents work closely with teachers and counselors to develop personalized, progressive curriculums that meet the needs of various learning styles and educational gaps. When additional educational, therapeutic and emotional support is required, tutors, counselors and therapeutic activities are provided; thus the need for a high quality, aesthetic learning center at Peppers Ranch.
The "Shaping Futures" development phase includes the construction of a multi-purpose learning center, to be used for specific tutoring needs, group and individual counseling sessions, various therapeutic activities and a wide range of movement experiences that develop physical fitness, wellness, and motor skills that will eventually lead to active and healthy lifestyles. This 21st century facility is a phased development plan and will include private meeting rooms, flexible-use classrooms, conference rooms, administrative offices, a multi-media technology center, a library with an adjoining study hall, and a multi-purpose activity center.
We believe that each and every boy can learn, learns in different ways and rates, and deserves positive support and respect. Our intent is to give our youth the foundation they need to meet life's challenges, including physical activities that make students feel better about school, themselves and their future.
Multipurpose Brochure with Floor Plan
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