What if healing didn’t have to start with words? Across Montana, SMART rooms are offering kids who’ve experienced trauma a new way to reset, reconnect, and heal. These spaces use sensory experiences and are thoughtfully designed to support their unique needs.

Leading this effort is Charise Lemelin, Clinical Director of Community-Based Services, whose vision is bringing SMART rooms to life in communities across the state.

What Are SMART Rooms?

SMART rooms (Sensory Motor Arousal Regulation Treatment) are therapeutic spaces that help children and teens regulate emotions and behaviors in ways that go beyond traditional talk therapy. Developed by clinical experts at the Trauma Center at Justice Resource Institute, the SMART model integrates sensory and motor activities to support youth who have experienced complex trauma.

These rooms use tools like:

• Weighted blankets for comfort and grounding
• Fitness balls to promote body awareness and self-regulation
• Other sensory tools that help kids manage emotions and build resilience

Each space gives youth a place to pause, engage their senses, and practice healthy ways to navigate difficult moments.

Expanding SMART Rooms Across Montana

Thanks to Charise’s leadership, SMART spaces are becoming a vital part of our community-based services. Each new room reflects our commitment to trauma-informed care — helping youth access practical tools that support healing and growth.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

Yesterday’s Yellowstone Academy graduation ceremony at the Ranch marked a powerful milestone—one that was years in the making for seven incredible students.

Some spent nearly their entire educational journeys as day school students at Yellowstone Academy, while others completed the final stretch of high school while in our care.

No matter their path, each student earned far more than a diploma. They walked away with a hard-won victory—a testament to perseverance, growth, and the power of care and connection.

Staff Reflections Highlight Growth, Resilience, and Strength

The 2025 Yellowstone Academy graduation ceremony opened with heartfelt remarks from John Boeder, Chaplain, and Cass Cole, Principal. Their words set the tone for a moving celebration grounded in hope and achievement.

Throughout the event, staff who stood beside these students over the years shared reflections on their growth and transformation.

Speakers included:

• Bobby Sipes, Teacher
• Tara Kirkegard, Behavior Specialist
• Dan Porisch, Former Behavior Specialist
• Lacey Jones, Therapist
• Jevon Lulf, Teacher

Their stories honored the progress each student made—both academically and personally.

Graduates Share Wisdom for the Road Ahead

Each graduate left their mark—and a quote of wisdom for others:

“Treat others how you want to be treated.”

“Working hard is important, but there is something that matters even more…believing in yourself.”

“Life is your game. If you have a dream, go chase it.”

“Life is too deep for words, so don’t try to describe it. Just live it.”

“Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.”

“The history you leave behind should be what describes you, not your past.”

“It’s your life; live it well.”

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”

Keith Tresch, Superintendent, handed out the diplomas, and Dwight Von Schriltz, Director of Special Education Services, presented the newly graduated students to the crowd—marking both an ending and a new beginning.

From all of us at YBGR and Yellowstone Academy—congratulations to the class of 2025! Your strength inspires us. Your future is bright.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

May is MMIP Awareness Month, a time to honor Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) and raise visibility around the violence impacting Native communities. At Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, youth and staff gathered for a powerful vigil on Wednesday, May 14th, that brought this national crisis close to home.

Youth-Led Vigil Brings Focus to MMIP Awareness

Led by Mustang Nation—a youth-led cultural club through our Native American Services program—the event was held in the Chapel on campus. Youth and staff came together to reflect, learn, and take action.

The vigil raised awareness about MMIP, the risks of human trafficking, and the growing dangers of illicit fentanyl in Indigenous communities. To close the gathering, participants joined in a Red Sand activation—filling sidewalk cracks with red sand to symbolize those who have fallen through the cracks of systems meant to protect them.

Standing in Solidarity, Amplifying Awareness

Among those present were Mike Chavers, CEO; Josie Brady, Native American Services Coordinator; Charlie Sleeper, Mental Health Worker; Eric Thorson, Licensed Addiction Counselor; and MMIP advocates Yolanda Fraser and Justin Ras. Their presence reflected a shared commitment to standing with Indigenous communities and amplifying youth voices.

As we observe MMIP Awareness Month, we recommit to listening, learning, and taking action. Events like this remind us that awareness is only the beginning—what follows must be ongoing support, advocacy, and change.

Shirts Now Available to Support MMIP Efforts

Youth at the Ranch designed a T-shirt to raise awareness and funds in support of MMIP efforts. Proceeds from shirt purchases go directly toward advocacy and outreach.

Shirts are available through June 20th. Click here to order and support the cause.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

This spring, we’re celebrating teammates who put in the work—earning everything from professional certificates to master’s degrees, including our MSW crew at Carroll College.

Pictured above with Dr. James Petrovich, Director of the Master of Social Work Program and a YBGR board member, are:

• Katon Gerky, Targeted Case Manager in Harlem
• Jasmine Hansen, PR Coordinator
• Caitlin Cooper, Behavioral Specialist in Dillon
• Skyler Carroll, Program Manager at Jessie Grant Lodge

These graduates were recognized at Carroll College’s MSW Hooding Ceremony in Helena on Friday, May 9th.

Balancing Responsibilities & Pushing Forward

Each of these professionals balanced full-time jobs, family responsibilities, and challenging academic coursework—all while continuing to serve youth and families with heart and perseverance.

Their achievement is a testament to what’s possible when education is supported and aligned with purpose. At YBGR, we believe in investing in the people delivering critical youth mental health services across Montana. By creating opportunities for professional development, we expand access to care in our rural communities and strengthen our workforce from within.

Our “Grow Your Own” Program: Advancing MSW Careers & More

YBGR and Yellowstone Academy offer several pathways to pursue an MSW or other academic goals through our “Grow Your Own” initiative:

• University partnerships, such as those with Carroll College and Grand Canyon University, offer tuition discounts and flexible degree programs.

• Scholarships, provided by the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch Foundation, help fund degrees and certifications.

• Student loan repayment grants support therapists currently practicing at YBGR or the Academy.

These supports help our team grow while expanding the care we provide to kids across Montana.

Grow Your Career While Giving Back

Looking for a meaningful career where you can grow professionally and make an impact? Join our team of caring people, preparing youth for life! Navigate to our Careers tab to explore our open positions.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

In April, we had the privilege of welcoming tribal chairmen and council members from across Montana to the Ranch for a closer look at our Native American Services programming—a vital piece of how we deliver on our mission: Caring people, preparing youth for life.

Native American Services — Cultural Connection in Practice

Our Native American Services program weaves cultural connection into treatment at the Ranch—supporting healing, strengthening identity, and fostering belonging. From weekly smudging and cultural activities to classroom integration, Native heritage is part of everyday life for youth who choose to participate.

We welcomed guests with a smudge prepared for the occasion using a custom blend from Lunar Brambles, a small herbal business that provides ongoing support, free of charge, to Mustang Nation—a key part of our programming.

Shared Conversation and Commitment

The visit was led by Josie Brady, our Native American Services Coordinator, whose work anchors the program and creates meaningful opportunities for cultural connection at the Ranch. Under her guidance, the day included space for honest conversation, shared insight, and reflections on how we can continue to strengthen our work moving forward.

We’re grateful for the time spent together—and for the opportunity to walk alongside youth in ways that honor their culture and identity.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

In April, our YBGR Butte team came together to mark a pivotal moment—celebrating the rebranding of their Community Office and two legacies now serving under one roof.

In a simple ceremony, we laid the old Youth Dynamics signage to rest—paying respect to the decades of care, connection, and hard work that built the foundation we stand on today at 775 W Gold Street.

YBGR Butte Honors Decades of Service

For years, 775 W Gold Street has been a steady presence for kids and families. Generations have walked through these doors—seeking support, finding connection, and building hope.

Both YBGR and Youth Dynamics have long histories of delivering care in Butte. Earlier this year, those paths officially came together—united under the shared mission: caring people, preparing youth for life.

What we celebrated was not the beginning but the continuation of that work—stronger, together, and reaching more youth and families than ever before.

The work started here is part of a much larger story—one still being written through every youth we serve and every family we support.

Expanding Our Reach Across Silver Bow County and Beyond

Today, our reach is more expansive, and our roots are deeper. From the Ranch to group homes to community-based services, our teams stand with kids at every step—building resilience, delivering hope, and creating strong foundations for the future.

We’re grateful to every team member who makes this work possible. Together, we’re making an impact that will ripple through future generations of children and families.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

Did you know that April is Strengthening Families Month? It’s a reminder that building a strong, resilient tomorrow starts with investing in families today.

At YBGR, strengthening families is at the heart of everything we do. Every service we offer—whether it’s delivered in the community, our group homes, or at the Ranch—is designed to strengthen connections, build resilience, and equip kids and caregivers with the tools they need to thrive.

Last year, we showed up for more than 3,600 youth and their families—delivering critical care that touched lives across nearly every corner of Montana. Behind each number is a story of hope, healing, and strength—the result of a community rallying around kids and families when it matters most.

Every connection we build today creates a stronger foundation for tomorrow. When kids have stable relationships, practical skills, and caring support systems, they’re better prepared to navigate challenges, achieve their goals, and contribute to stronger communities.

How We Strengthen Families Across Montana

From crisis intervention to ongoing skill-building and beyond, our continuum of care is built to meet families where they are—walking alongside them every step of the way.

Whether we’re supporting a family through a challenging time or helping kids develop skills that last a lifetime, the focus stays the same: strengthening families to strengthen futures.

Our teams work in homes, schools, and communities across Montana, delivering care that helps families stay connected, build resilience, and move forward with confidence.

Learn more about the care we deliver across Montana.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

Earlier this month, our Butte community-based services crew brought Easter to life for the youth and families they serve.

The team organized egg hunts at the park, hosted crafts and games at the office, and even made hand-dyed eggs—courtesy of Madelin Speer, Targeted Case Manager, and her chickens. Our kids spent the day laughing, creating, and connecting with each other and the caring adults around them.

Simple moments like these leave a real impact. They build positive memories, strengthen trust, and remind kids they are seen and valued.

Celebrating Connection and Community

In Butte, our team creates spaces where youth feel connected, supported, and seen.

Activities like these give kids a chance to experience joy, connection, and moments of celebration. They strengthen trust, build resilience, and help youth keep moving forward with confidence.

Beyond the holidays, our Butte community-based services team works daily to strengthen families, build skills, and support youth in staying connected to the people and communities that matter most.

Thank You to Our Butte Community-Based Services Team

We’re grateful to our Butte team for bringing heart, joy, and connection to the kids and families we serve. No doubt, their care and commitment makes a difference.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

We were proud to sponsor Pheasants Forever this year—supporting wildlife conservation and youth development in a truly hands-on way. As part of our partnership, we donated 50 pheasants raised with care by students at Yellowstone Academy at the Ranch through our Vocational Agriculture (Voc-Ag) program.

Building Responsibility & Life Skills Through Voc-Ag

At the Ranch, our Voc-Ag program gives youth the opportunity to raise pheasants from egg to maturity. With support from staff, students learn how to care for the birds throughout every stage of life—feeding, monitoring, and preparing them for release into the wild. Along the way, they build responsibility, confidence, and life skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.

This hands-on experience also fosters a deep connection to the natural world and instills a lasting sense of pride in giving back—both to their community and to Montana’s wild places.

Partnering with Pheasants Forever to Support Conservation in Montana

Partnering with Pheasants Forever reflects our commitment to service, stewardship, and creating opportunities for youth to build skills for life. The organization plays a vital role in preserving wildlife habitats, promoting outdoor education, and ensuring that future generations of Montanans can experience the outdoors.

By contributing student-raised pheasants, we’re not only supporting local conservation efforts—we’re empowering youth through meaningful, real-world learning that benefits both people and the land.

It’s an honor to support Pheasants Forever’s mission while helping our students grow, give back, and make a lasting impact.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

What a match! April 2nd marked the end of volleyball season at the Ranch, and our youth wrapped it up in style—with a spirited game against staff. In a close and exciting match, the staff team edged out a win with a final score of 25–21.

More Than Just a Volleyball Game

While the scoreboard showed a staff victory, the real wins this season came to the kids through the lessons learned on the court. Throughout the season, our youth practiced teamwork, communication, strategy, and perseverance—skills that extend far beyond the game.

From learning to collaborate with peers to encouraging each other through challenges, our volleyball season offered more than just physical activity. It created space for connection, growth, and a whole lot of fun.

We’re incredibly proud of the heart, hustle, and positive spirit our youth brought to every practice and game. And we’re grateful to the staff who stepped up—not just for the final match, but for encouraging and supporting the kids all season long.

🏐 Here’s to a season full of memories, movement, and moments that matter.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from across Montana, and follow us on social media. You can find us on LinkedIn at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Instagram at @ybgr_cares, and Facebook at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.