The story of the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation begins long before its official formation—with the roots of generosity that shaped Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch itself.
From the start, the Ranch stood tall because of caring people who believed in its mission and the leaders who carried that mission forward. In the early days, Bob McFarlane rallied ranchers across Montana to give what they could—calves, grain, even land rights.
When the effort grew beyond one man, Irwin Eleson, a can-do ranch hand with a gift for connection, took to the road in a donated pickup, recruiting trustees and donors who built a foundation of trust and community support.
Laying the Groundwork for the Foundation
Decades later, Jim Soft carried that same spirit into the creation of the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation, established to ensure the Ranch’s long-term stability. His guiding belief was simple: strong roots ensure lasting growth. With the Blankenship Charitable Remainder Trust, the Foundation secured its first major planned gift, demonstrating that generosity could sustain the Ranch’s mission for generations to come.
Meanwhile, Franklin Robbie devoted his life to leading the Ranch, and later the Foundation, driving thousands of miles each year to raise the funds that kept hope alive. Alongside him, Merle Robbie offered steadfast partnership and wisdom, helping shape the heart of the organization.
A Legacy Carried Forward
In 1984, the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation became its own nonprofit organization, dedicated to supporting the mission and future of Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch and similar organizations. This step formalized years of grassroots generosity, creating a sustainable structure to carry forward the legacy of giving that began with the Ranch’s founders.
When Franklin later passed the torch to his son, Wes Robbie, the Foundation entered a new era. Wes brought professionalism and vision, modernizing operations while preserving the spirit of generosity his parents and predecessors had lived out so faithfully.
Today, Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch stands strong not because of buildings or programs alone, but because of caring people who planted roots of giving and leadership. Nearly 400 charitable gift annuities and trusts now sustain this legacy, each one a testament to enduring faith in the mission.
The Robbie family’s legacy, joined with that of so many others, ensures that every child in our care finds not only healing but a future filled with hope.
Learn More About Our History
Visit our History page to explore the story—and the caring people—who gave birth to our mission. Their vision continues to impact the lives of thousands of youth across Montana and beyond each year.
Want to dive deeper? You can also find A Legacy of Caring, written by our founder, Franklin Robbie, on Amazon.
