How Leadership Shapes Professional Growth — Fallon Hain’s Story

Did you know some of the most impactful leaders are the ones who make room for others to grow? At the Ranch, leadership isn’t about taking the spotlight—it’s about recognizing strengths, building trust, and supporting people as they step into new roles.

That leadership is on full display at Shumaker Lodge through Emily Barnhart, Program Manager, and Fallon Hain, Lead Mental Health Worker.

Creating Space for Growth Through Leadership

Strong teams grow when people feel trusted and supported.

When Fallon transitioned into her role as Lead Mental Health Worker, Emily was quick to deflect credit.

“Whenever someone approaches me about Fallon’s transition to our Lead Mental Health Worker, I often get told I have done well as her supervisor and have helped her grow into this role. However, from my perspective, I didn’t do anything special but allow her to lean into her own strengths and provide her with support and guidance.”

That approach reflects how leadership shows up at the Ranch—by creating space for growth and encouraging people to bring their strengths forward.

Leading From Strength

In her role, Fallon supports and trains other Mental Health Workers, brings thoughtful ideas to the table, and helps work through challenges as they arise.

Emily describes Fallon as a steady presence and trusted collaborator—someone who strengthens both the team and the care provided to youth.

“Fallon has not only helped provide training to other Mental Health Workers, but also to me. She provides great ideas and is extremely helpful at working through challenges as they arise. Fallon is truly my right hand and is a great example of a Lead Mental Health Worker.”

Growth That’s Felt — And Seen

From Fallon’s perspective, that trust made all the difference.

“Emily has by far been a Program Manager I fully trust. She helped me grow more in the last year than I could have ever imagined.”

Feeling seen and supported allowed Fallon to step confidently into her new role—demonstrating what growth can look like when leadership is rooted in trust and people are encouraged to develop their strengths.

Caring People, Preparing Youth for Life

Stories like Emily’s and Fallon’s reflect the culture at the Ranch—where caring people support one another, leadership creates opportunity, and growth strengthens the work we do preparing youth for life.

Thank you, Emily and Fallon, for the way you show up for your team and for the kids we serve.

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