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Adventure, Confidence & Connection at Circle F Dude Ranch Camp

This February, 11 youth from our Middle School Cohort traded their daily routines for fresh air, wide-open spaces, and an unforgettable weekend of growth and connection at Circle F Dude Ranch.

Nestled in the heart of Florida, the ranch provided the perfect backdrop for adventure, teamwork, and confidence-building experiences that many of our youth had never had before.

Climbing Higher — Together

One of the highlights of the weekend was conquering the Alpine Tower. With harnesses secured and cheers rising from below, each child pushed past fear and self-doubt to climb higher than they thought possible. The Giant Swing brought even more excitement (and courage) as youth, staff, and volunteers encouraged one another to take the leap.

These weren’t just thrilling activities. They were powerful lessons in trust, bravery, and resilience.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Throughout the weekend, our group embraced nature in meaningful ways:

  • Kayaking and canoeing along the waterfront

  • Participating in a sensory course that encouraged mindfulness and awareness

  • Learning practical skills in a wilderness survival course

  • Taking an astronomy walk under the night sky

  • Enjoying a fun hayride around the ranch

Each activity fostered teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, all while allowing our youth to unplug and simply be kids.

Campfire Conversations & Cabin Memories

Evenings were spent sharing dinner, laughs, stories, and s’mores. Sleeping in cabins created space for bonding, late-night giggles, and deeper friendships to form.
 
In between structured activities, the youth made the most of their free time: playing basketball and soccer, enjoying waterfront fun, and sharing meals together. These simple moments of connection often leave the most lasting impact.

More Than a Weekend Away

For youth in foster care, opportunities like this are about so much more than recreation. They create safe spaces to build confidence, strengthen peer relationships, and experience stability and joy in a supportive environment.
 
By Monday afternoon, the group returned home tired but proud, carrying new skills, stronger friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime.
 
Because every child deserves the chance to climb higher, swing farther, explore deeper, and simply enjoy being a kid.

Experiences like this weekend at camp don’t just create memories, they build resilience and belonging. Help us provide more opportunities like this for the youth we serve.

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