Down Home Ranch

Vitality for Ranchers

By Katrina McDowell on Jul 11, 2024 in Giving

Down Home Ranch, located in Elgin, Texas, is a Yardi-supported nonprofit empowering the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through social, educational, residential and vocational opportunities. Since its establishment in 1989, it has worked to expand programming to allow more people with disabilities and their families to enjoy the Ranch. By increasing its programs, Down Home Ranch will create more jobs for adults who live on the Ranch.

Down Home Ranch plans to host more local Special Education Vocational programs and focus on providing outdoor education to schools, community groups, and families.

“In 2023, we had over 420 local students with and without disabilities access to the Ranch. Then 274 campers from Central Texas and around the state attend a weeklong overnight sleep-away camp,” said Derek Knapp, development director for Down Home Ranch.

Funding from Yardi helps improve access to farm animals. Currently, Down Home Ranch is in the process of a multiple-phased project to make its barn and animal area more accessible for people who have mobility issues, such as those who use a wheelchair.

“We are truly grateful for the support that Yardi provides. We can impact the lives of thousands by providing access to a rural community and lifestyle. We sure appreciate y’all,” expressed Barry Hamilton, executive director for Down Home Ranch. 

Successful Rancher

One of Down Home Ranch’s residents, who was in their 30s at the time, stated that the first time they felt like a “real person” was when they received their first paycheck from working on the Ranch. This was the first time they had seen their name written on something, and it was an empowering moment for them.

Andy and Chris Holliday

Andy Holliday, senior category manager from the Yardi Austin office, has a brother living at Down Home Ranch, which is how Yardi got involved with this organization:

“Down Home Ranch has been a huge blessing in my family’s life. The work of Down Home Ranch and its amazing staff has provided my brother and other adults with special needs the foundation to live a fulfilling and thriving life full of friendship, family, and numerous opportunities for personal growth. There truly is no place like Down Home Ranch, and I am very grateful for Yardi’s recognition and contribution.”

Volunteer Opportunities

Down Home Ranch has several volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups, and it can be indoors, outdoors, and alongside its Ranchers. Please get in touch with [email protected] for more information.

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