Programs at Freedom Gates Boys Ranch
Opening Gates to Freedom
Freedom Gates Boys Ranch is a Christ-centered private placement program for boys ages 11–17. Our mission is to guide young men in their journey of healing, spiritual growth, and life skills development through Biblical principles, residential care, Christian education, mental health services, and hands-on training. By providing a structured and nurturing environment, we equip boys to overcome challenges and thrive both spiritually and practically as they prepare for life beyond the ranch.
We offer two main programs: the 18-Month Reunification Program and the Long-Term Life Skills Program. Our residential campus currently houses up to eight boys, and we also provide services to support their families.
18-Month Reunification Program
The 18-Month Program is designed to support family reunification. Our strategy focuses on helping families work through struggles while training both parents and children to build a strong foundation for lasting relationships. Although the program is structured for 18 months, the length may be extended depending on the needs of the boy and his family.
Long-Term Life Skills Program
The Long-Term Program focuses on preparing boys for independent living and successful adulthood. In this program, we serve as a surrogate family, guiding boys through education, personal growth, and practical life skills. This can include:
-
Developing healthy relationships and dating skills
-
Career preparation, job readiness, and workplace skills
-
Financial literacy and independent living (e.g., renting an apartment, budgeting)
-
Continuing education opportunities
Our staff remain engaged with youth even after they leave the program, maintaining mentorship and family-like support as they transition into adulthood.
Additional Services
Mental Health Services
Every boy at Freedom Gates Boys Ranch receives weekly mental health services from a licensed therapist who visits the ranch twice a week.
Kevin Neuenswander, TLPC, leads our counseling program. Kevin brings decades of experience mentoring youth, coaching families, and providing Christian guidance in both public and private schools. He holds a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Wichita State University and has over 37 years of experience teaching and mentoring at the K–12 level. Kevin’s work emphasizes individualized support, resilience, and holistic care for boys facing emotional, behavioral, or family challenges.
Family Services
Because our boys come from private placement, we work closely with families to ensure lasting success after a youth’s time at the ranch. Monthly family therapy sessions help parents and guardians develop the skills, understanding, and spiritual insight necessary to support their son’s continued growth. Our goal is not just to help individual boys, but to transform families and break cycles of generational dysfunction.
Trades and Vocational Skills
At Freedom Gates Boys Ranch, we emphasize hands-on, real-world learning. Our trades program teaches practical skills including:
-
Construction, mechanics, and welding
-
Household repairs, basic plumbing, and electrical work
-
Agriculture and ranch-related trades
This training prepares boys for future careers and instills confidence, discipline, and a strong work ethic through mentorship and applied experience.
Farm and Ranch Program
“Ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you… In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.” — Job 12:7–10
Our Farm and Ranch Program gives boys hands-on experience caring for animals and working the land. Activities include:
-
Training and caring for horses, cattle, chickens, and other farm animals
-
Feeding, watering, and grooming livestock
-
Maintaining farm equipment and tack
-
Recreational activities like trail rides
-
Participating in livestock shows and fairs
This program teaches responsibility, teamwork, and stewardship while connecting boys to God’s creation.
Education Program
Freedom Gates Christian Academy provides individualized Christ-centered education for boys who may have struggled in traditional schools. We use the Accelerated Christian Education (P.A.C.E.) curriculum, allowing students to learn at their own pace under the guidance of our on-campus teacher, Matthew Thomas (“Mr. T”).
Students follow a rotating schedule: six weeks in the classroom and two weeks off year-round. This approach ensures every boy receives the support and structure needed to achieve academic success while fostering a love of learning.
Residential Living
Many boys in our care have never experienced a family environment as God designed it. Up to eight boys live in our residence, the Blake House, which provides a safe, loving, and structured home.
A husband-and-wife team of houseparents models healthy relationships, provides daily guidance, and ensures boys’ physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met. This family-style environment teaches boys how to interact with others, build trust, and experience the unconditional love of God firsthand.
Freedom Gates Boys Ranch offers a comprehensive, Christ-centered program that combines residential care, education, mental health services, vocational training, farm and ranch work, and family support. Our mission is to help boys heal, grow in faith, and gain the tools they need to thrive in life.