PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS

   Our session program is open to all children, ages 6-18, who are dealing with life challenges and difficulties (including but not limited to divorce, bullying, loss of a family member, abuse, etc.). The only other "requirement" is that the child wants to come. RYYR understands that every child deals with his or her own set of unique challenges. Session leaders (mentors) work hard to adapt programming to meet the individual needs of each child.    

   While we do not wish to turn any child away, there are a limited number of sessions available each summer (June-August). Sessions may be individual or with a small group, depending on the child’s needs and prior experience at the ranch. Although we cannot guarantee a session for every child who wants one, RYYR does its best to accommodate as many participants as possible. Our mentors are volunteers, so session space cannot be guaranteed ahead of summer as unexpected situations can change volunteer availability. Application acceptance places your child on the list to be contacted when a mentor is available.

   RYYR is not a residential facility and is unable to provide housing for out-of-town visitors.

SESSION COMPONENTS

RYYR is a faith-based organization, however we do not belong to any particular denomination. The overall aim of our session program is to love and encourage children which in turn will foster hope and joy. This process takes on as many unique forms as there are kids. However, there are some choice components that are generally included in each session.

• Chores: Almost every child and mentor pair will complete a small chore at the beginning of the session. This time is designed to teach the importance of serving others by giving through the work of your own hands. Often this opportunity empowers children in knowing that their efforts can make a difference to those around them. It also enables mentors to better understand each child each day, and gain perspective for the best use of time to follow. 

• Working with horses: The majority of children who come to RYYR are drawn to the ranch because of the horses. These kids will learn to correctly handle, groom, lead, ride, and care for horses during their sessions. Again, each session depends on the needs of the child and of the horse on any given day. 

• Fishing: Some of the children who come to our facility would prefer the challenge of fishing. A mentor will teach the child proper safety and fishing techniques.

• Crafts: For those who do not wish to spend time riding horses, the ranch has assembled some wonderful craft options for a child and mentor to use. 

• Woodwork: Some of our mentors are skilled in carpentry and woodworking. Many kids enjoy time helping to build wood items.

• Play: Often, the most valuable time in a child’s life is to allow and encourage kids to be kids by playing. Many children choose to spend some entire sessions wholly engaged in playing games including water games and board games.

Sessions can include one or many of the above components, or sometimes something entirely unique. Together, the mentor and child determine the best course of action for each session time. Mentors do their best to listen and creatively respond by using the resources of the ranch to support and encourage children in need. 

RANCH REQUIREMENTS  & RULES

• No open toed shoes can be worn on premises - shoes/boots with closed toes and closed heels are required. For riding, boots with little or no tread and a heel are recommended - crocs are not acceptable. (We have extras on hand for children to borrow while at the ranch)

• Hats can be worn, however, they should be worn so as to not obscure the eyes.

• Pants (preferably jeans) must be worn to ride horses.  Jeans should be appropriate rise and not expose any skin.  If not riding, shorts are allowed if they are finger-tip length. 

• Please have the child dress modestly, no cleavage or midriff showing.  Tank tops must be 1in wide straps.  Underwear/bra parts of any sort are not to be seen.

• Nothing is permitted to be hanging down around the neck or tied around the waist while riding.

• South Western PA weather is a little crazy so please check the forecast and plan appropriately! With our indoor arena we are able to have sessions in rain or heat, but mentors may choose to reschedule as they deem appropriate.

• To promote individual responsibility, we recommend that kids bring their own water bottle. Other items we recommend for your child to bring/wear for his or her session include long pants, sunscreen, light jacket if temperatures may drop that day, and a snack, if desired.

• No profanity is allowed.

• Cell phone ringers & notifications are to be turned off and phones kept in pockets unless used for picture taking. 

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS / GUARDIANS / CARETAKERS

We would like a child's parent, guardian or approved caretaker to be on the property during their child's session, but it is not required.  Adults and siblings or friends who do not have a session have some options. We hope for this time to be relaxing and enjoyable for all who come. Here are some ideas for that time, as well as some general safety rules: 

• Read or sit and enjoy the farm scenery. We can provide fold out chairs, just let us know. 

• Seek out a private location on the ranch for quiet reflection and prayer. 

• Get plugged in as a Local Volunteer. Ask us for more information.

• Play or be involved with your kids who are not in sessions. Please keep these children with you at all times. 

• Watch your children ride during their session. We do ask that you watch from a distance and help us to maintain a one-on-one relationship with your child. 

• Taking pictures is permitted and encouraged. Again, we ask parents to use discernment regarding giving space to their child and leader during the session. 

• The horses love to welcome visitors. We invite you to meet them over the fence.  However, please do not enter the paddocks or stalls or feed any treats without a RYYR leader present. 

Our session program has one goal - to mentor the child. There are many different activities used in sessions to accomplish this. Some of these activities include fishing, crafts, games, chores, woodworking, spending time with a horse and riding. All activities are weather dependent and are chosen at the discretion of the mentor.