Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches (ASYR) announced on Wednesday a generous $200,000 challenge grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation, aiming to spur donations for building a new cottage that will provide a home for up to eight additional children at the Ranch. To receive the $200,000 challenge grant, ASYR must complete its fundraising for the new home by raising the final $233,000 of its capital campaign.
The campaign, which is already three-quarters of the way to achieving its $1 million goal with more than $767,000 raised so far, will conclude this fall, and construction is set to begin in the spring of 2024. The Mabee Foundation grant provides a significant push, and ASYR is looking to the community to assist in meeting the challenge by providing the remaining funds.
“The Mabee Foundation’s grant is a monumental step toward accomplishing our million-dollar goal. It’s an opportunity to expand our mission to provide a stable, nurturing environment for children who deserve the best we can offer,” said Nancy Fulton, chief executive officer of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch. “We’re incredibly grateful for this vote of confidence, and we’re looking forward to all the ways our communities will rise to the challenge.”
Since 2015, Arkansas has faced a significant foster care crisis. With approximately 1,600 foster homes across the state, the current capacity only meets half the demand for children needing a safe place to call home. This expansion project represents a direct response to the urgent demand, taking a step forward in addressing the foster care crisis by providing a warm, welcoming home for eight more children at the Ranch.
Campaign Chair and Board President, Ray Dillon, shared his enthusiasm and called for community support. “The children we serve are our future leaders. Each contribution, regardless of its size, brings us one step closer to providing our youth with a safe, and loving home – something every single child deserves to have. We are thankful for the Mabee Foundation’s challenge and we need our community to help us cross the finish line.”
