Empowering Youth Leadership Program
Saddle Up for Leadership: Empowering Youth with Ranch Skills and Cowboy Grit
Calling all 6th-12th graders ready for a transformative journey at Graceful Oaks Ranch!
The Empowering Youth Leadership Program is dedicated to nurturing the unique strengths of each participant while equipping them for successful futures in the workforce.
With our new curriculum tailored to individual needs and passions, EYLP offers a six-week session that provides an immersive experience.
Programming Logistics:
Program Dates: June 1 – July 11, 2026
Program Day/Time: Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 6 PM – 8 PM
- Grades 6-8 meet on Mondays and Wednesdays
- Grades 9-12 meet on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Additional Important Dates: Family Fun Night July 10, 2026; Potluck/Awards Ceremony July 11- July 12, 2026
Tuition is $250.00/student for a six-week session. Tuition includes book material and a t-shirt.
Scholarships are available thanks to the generous support of The Braly Family Foundation.
For financial assistance inquires, please reach out to Chalae Collard at programs@goyr.org
Program Overview:
Embark on a trail to leadership, where young ranchers not only learn the ropes of ranch care and horse training but also master skills they can use throughout life. This immersive journey cultivates a deep bond with nature while fostering skills in teamwork, leadership, and public speaking. The grand finale? A hoedown-style Family Fun Night organized and led by our confident young leaders, showcasing their growth and newfound skills.
Training Sessions Include:
Animal and Ranch Care: Develop meaningful connections as you explore the dynamics of our program animals and the principles of herd mentality. Understand how these insights can enhance your relationships with family, friends, and future employers. Acquire practical skills in horse handling, riding, and establishing clear, healthy boundaries in your interactions with animals.
Professional Development: Develop interpersonal skills for the workplace through group activities and equine sessions. Practice skills such as public speaking and conflict resolution with peers in a guided setting, and utilize these skills during community events.
Organization and Planning: Mastering techniques to effectively organize tasks, set goals, and develop actionable plans.
Financial Understanding: Learning the fundamentals of program budgeting, including identifying income and expenses, as well as developing strategic plans to meet financial goals and business expectations.
Task Management: Developing skills to prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently and effectively.
Community Engagement: Fostering a sense of responsibility and active involvement in local initiatives, highlighted by our Family Fun Nights at the Ranch. During these events, held at the conclusion of the 6-week sessions, participants will be honored for their achievements and awarded a letter of recommendation along with a certificate of completion by meeting these requirements:
- Attend at least 10 out of 12 EYLP leadership training sessions
- Serve at the Family Fun Night
- Attend EYLP Awards Ceremony and Potluck
