BROKEN ARROW RANCH
Phase II
Psalms 127:4 compares children to “arrows” in the hand of a warrior. In ancient times a warrior took special care to shape his arrows so that they would swiftly hit an intended target. In much the same way, parents have a God-given responsibility to shape their children’s lives so as to enable each child’s unique purpose to be fulfilled.
At times, young persons
are identified as “broken arrows” or arrows very
much “at risk” of being broken. (Of course, in reality,
all human beings are “broken arrows” for whom Jesus
Christ came to provide salvation). While the focus of Camp Appanoose
has not specifically been to “at risk” youth, a special
vision has always existed for what God would do in the lives
of “broken arrows.”
The late Des Moines businessman, Bill Reichardt, once identified three levels at which youth ministry occurs:
Level One – INSTRUCTION –The Scriptures are replete with teaching encouraging parents to diligently take full responsibility for the instruction of their children. That instruction includes, but is not limited to, Biblical teaching. In Deuteronomy six, parents are directed to talk with their children throughout the course of the day, literally from when they rise up in the morning, until they lie down at night. That teaching must be “line upon line, precept upon precept”. Teaching by parents is not confined to a classroom; rather it is the development of structure and self discipline throughout the activities of life. Parents may delegate certain aspects of that teaching to a school, a church, or an agency such as Camp Appanoose. They however, remain accountable that, where responsibility is delegated, their children are being grounded in truth. The overall thrust of Camp Appanoose is at this level.
Level Two – INTERVENTION – II Timothy 3:16 speaks of Scripture being profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. It is interesting that along with teaching in this verse are several words which speak of intervention. While the Scriptures give pristine principles to which all of the human family may reference itself, the overall message of the Bible is redemptive and addressed to a fallen human race. Broken Arrow Ranch will be a vehicle of hope for young persons who need structure and discipline in order to successfully enter into adulthood. The “ranch” will be open to adolescent boys (initially) who desire to receive help. It will offer academic training opportunity for productive endeavors, and integrated spiritual training in the context of a “home” environment.
Level Three – INCARCERATION – It is entirely appropriate and within the responsibility of human government to protect citizens from those who would cause harm to property or to other persons, even if those who cause harm are juveniles. This, of course, is the responsibility of the state. It is the objective of this agency, that young people be reached before they arrive at this level. Broken Arrow Ranch will provide a positive alternative to young persons.
“Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52). Objectives for the “Ranch” fall in these four areas throughout the program. Following are three major components of the Broken Arrow Ranch.
While in the Broken Arrow Ranch program, residents will work toward a high school diploma. Special effort will be made to discover and develop individual strengths while assisting students with areas of weakness. The “Ranch” will offer its own school program which may also be available to local, non-resident youth. Educational travel, field trips, work projects, and group initiatives will be important to the educational process. Students will be encouraged to become lifelong learners.
In keeping with the philosophy of Camp Appanoose, Inc, it will be the goal of a ranch to develop in each young person a strong sense of responsibility leading to a productive mind set and an excellent work ethic. Jobs will be available on various levels which will also serve as extended classroom experiences in areas of skill, individual responsibility, social interaction, and personal economy. Ranch participants will potentially experience the disappointment of failure as well as the joy of success. They will find that performance and attitude are essential to success. Material incentives will be utilized but will not be the primary focus. On occasion entrepreneurial opportunities will be made available. Jobs will be offered through the food service, maintenance, animal care, and grounds work of Camp Appanoose. Other work opportunities will be coordinated with Broken Arrow Ranch.
Youths will be part of a family environment in a home parented by a married couple. They will be assisted by two college age counselors serving as big brother mentors to the boys. Each home will be designed to give boys a sense of belonging and personal acceptance. Care will be given to preserve the uniqueness of each young person while developing the social skills necessary to successful family relationships and social encounters. House parents and counselors will be participants in the spiritual training of the boys and will also share meals, times of relaxation and recreation. Each home will house no more than eight boys.
1. Farm property located close to Camp Appanoose.
2. Approximately $300,000.00 for equipment and the construction of adequate housing.
3. A twelve to fifteen passenger van.
4. Staff:a. Houseparent
b. Certified Secondary Instructor
c. Counselors
d. Project Manager
1. $90,000.00 for the school structure
2. Additional homes
3. A gymnasium
- Cash gifts of all sizes
- Real estate, stock, bonds
- Gifts in kind
- Items of value
- Skilled labor on various aspects of the project
- Assistance in the promotion of the financial campaign.
Camp Appanoose, Inc is a 501(c) 3 corporation. All gifts are tax deductible for IRS purposes.