The United Methodist Boys Ranch was started by Henry Burrow, a United Methodist who envisioned a ranch where boys from broken homes and delinquents from the streets might have a full opportunity to grow into manhood — mentally, physically, and spiritually qualified to take their proper place in the world. The Boy’s Ranch officially began serving boys in 1963 on the west side of Lake Tenkiller and a few miles north of Gore, Oklahoma. Now, the ranch serves as a location for foster care sibling homes.

Over the past 7 years we have leaned into that vision and been able to serve several children and teenagers in foster care on our ranch.

As we move toward the future, we are excited to continue the history and legacy of this beautiful ranch. Our board and leadership are excited to announce the launch of a new capital campaign. We believe it is the right thing to do, in the right season of our history. Our goal is to raise $3 million and with these funds we will replace the current homes with four new homes better designed for family style living, add a pavilion and playground, renovate the gymnasium, office, and the lake lodge where mission teams, staff, and foster families get to experience the breathtaking views of Lake Tenkiller.

In 2022, we will begin the celebration of 60 years of serving young people at our ranch and we will also be celebrating 105 years of service across our programs at Circle of Care — that is history and legacy. As we enter into this celebration, we are also fully committed to keep going, doing more, and moving forward to provide Christian help, healing, and hope to children and families in crisis.