Albany Campus - Ben Richey Boys Ranch

THE ALBANY CAMPUS

SETTING UP FOR SUCCESS IN ALBANY

In early 2000, it became apparent that an additional campus needed to be added. Ideally a small community would be the perfect fit. A smaller school district with smaller classes would provide more one on one time with teachers and allow them to participate in sports and extracurricular activities. The Albany community shared the Ranch’s vision; a land gift from a local family made it all possible. Building started in 2003 and was completed in 2004. The Albany Campus originally started with the Linebery House, a single-family dwelling, and a barn/shop.

Boys on the Albany campus are active in FFA, 4-H, band, athletics (both UIL and summer league), church activities as well as helping numerous civic organizations with projects. Today, the Albany campus includes the two houses for boys, a relief home, administrative offices, livestock barn and shop and open-air pavilion. It sits on 86 acres and can house up to 12 boys.

The campus is located just south of Albany on the Baird Highway.

EDUCATION

The boys of Ben Richey Boys Ranch participate in their community through church, school, 4-H, FFA, and other activities. The boys attend social, church, and athletic events as a group. Boys attend public schools. This past school grading period the boys of Ben Richey Boys Ranch passed 95% of the classes they were enrolled in. Education is a priority at the Ranch, because it improves the boy’s chances of becoming responsible young men and someday great parents.

ACTIVITIES

Through the generosity of friends, tickets are donated so the boys can take part in a variety of activities, including the circus, the rodeo, and cultural events.

The Ranch also offers a variety of vocational training areas through the 4-H or FFA programs. Boys on the Albany campus raise livestock, and vegetable gardens are often planted and cared for by the boys.

BOYS RANCH ADMISSION CRITERIA

Boys Ranch Admissions Criteria: Boys considered for admission include the following:

Boys who are at least 6 years old, and no more than 14 years old
Boys who are able to function in a public school
The boy’s family or visitation source must live in Texas
Boys who have a full-scale IQ of at least 80
Boys who are physically able to participate in Ranch activities
Boys who are able to get along with others in a group setting
Boys who are capable of respecting other people and property

WE CANNOT ACCEPT

Boys Ranch Admissions Criteria: Boys who WILL NOT be considered for admission include the following:

Boys who are violent or aggressive towards other
Boys who are involved with drugs and/or alcohol
Boys who consistently run away
Boys who have used a weapon in threatening others
Boys who have major depression or mental illnesses requiring treatment
Boys who have made suicidal attempts or serious threats
Boys who have a history of fire setting
Boys who are cruel to animals
Boys who are acting out sexually