Every hour counts—and YBGR employees are proving it in powerful ways! In just a quarter’s time, our team spent 4,238 hours volunteering across Montana. From coaching youth sports to mentoring kids, delivering meals, serving on boards, and so much more, they’re making a real difference far beyond the workday.

This is what it looks like when caring people come together. We don’t just serve our communities—we’re part of them.

More Than Numbers: The Heart Behind the Service

What makes these hours so meaningful isn’t just the total—it’s the spirit behind them. Whether it’s firing up the grill for a crowd, helping a neighbor in need, or quietly mentoring a young athlete, our team shows up with commitment, care, and humility. These moments build lasting connections and communities that thrive.

Take Leslin Ossoff, Regional Clinical Director, and Alexis Freydenfelt, Administrative Supervisor, for example. In May, they volunteered at a Kenyon Noble event in Bozeman, where they grilled hot dogs for kids and helped families build flowerpots in time for Mother’s Day. It’s a snapshot of the kind of hands-on care and connection our staff bring into their communities every day.

Why Volunteering Matters at YBGR

At Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, we believe community involvement is part of who we are, not just what we do. When our staff give their time, they’re helping create the positive connections that kids, families, and neighbors need to succeed. Together, we’re helping youth grow stronger and communities grow closer.

To every employee who gives so generously—thank you. Your time and heart make a lasting 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’re excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Jane Gillette as Chair of our Board of Directors, effective July 1st, 2025.

Dr. Gillette has served on the Board since 2021 and was Vice Chair from July 1st, 2024, through June 30th, 2025. A Montana State Legislator, she is a recognized leader in primary disease prevention, health disparities, and evidence-based healthcare.

Her past leadership roles include serving as Chair of the American Dental Association’s Council on Access, Prevention, and Interprofessional Relations and Media Spokesperson for the ADA on Evidence-based Dentistry. She is a recipient of the ADA/American Association of Dental Research Evidence-based Practice Award and the HRDC IX Future Generations Award.

Dr. Gillette has also served on nonprofit healthcare and research boards, including Save the Mothers USA, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Mountain Health CO-OP, and the NIH-funded NW PRECEDENT research network.

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 YBGR and Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

Did you know that every June, Walmart steps up to support kids at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch by donating unsold seeds, pots, soil, and gardening supplies? Their contributions play a vital role in keeping Yellowstone youth gardening programs thriving — helping maintain the Ranch gardens and supporting horticultural activities at Yellowstone Academy.

Through these programs, youth engage in meaningful, hands-on learning that teaches responsibility, patience, and growth.

How Yellowstone Youth Gardening Builds Skills and Confidence

Yellowstone youth gardening isn’t just about planting seeds; it’s about planting the roots of resilience. Thanks to Walmart’s generosity, youth at Yellowstone Academy and the Ranch experience the full cycle of care, from preparing the soil to seeing the first sprouts. Along the way, kids learn the value of hard work, gain a sense of responsibility, and build patience as they nurture their plants.

The donated supplies help our gardens flourish all season, creating spaces where youth connect with nature, experience the calming benefits of outdoor work, and see the results of their dedication. For many, it’s a chance to build confidence and discover new interests they might not have explored otherwise.

Mitch Burns from Yellowstone Academy met with April from Walmart to pick up this year’s donation for our youth gardening program—a reminder of how local partnerships strengthen our ability to serve youth.

Thank You, Walmart!

We’re deeply grateful to Walmart for their ongoing support of Yellowstone youth gardening projects and programs. Their generosity helps make a difference in the lives of the kids we serve, giving them opportunities to grow, learn, and heal in new ways.

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.

Meet Alissa Brady, Behavior Specialist at Yellowstone Academy, and the heart behind many of the gardening projects happening across campus! Thanks to Alissa’s leadership, the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch garden beds are bursting with life — filled with plants that youth started from seed and recently transplanted into the soil they’ve spent weeks preparing.

How Yellowstone Academy Gardening Builds Lifelong Skills

Alissa has led the charge in bringing gardening to life at the Ranch. Through her guidance, youth are discovering the therapeutic value of growing something from the ground up. From planting seeds to nurturing seedlings and watching them thrive, kids are building patience, resilience, and quiet confidence through hands-on care.

But what’s growing here goes far beyond flowers and vegetables.

Yellowstone Academy gardening allows youth to connect with nature, experience the calming benefits of outdoor work, and learn important life skills. Each day spent in the garden helps them practice consistency, responsibility, and teamwork—all while creating something beautiful and nourishing.

Yellowstone Academy Gardening Supports Healing and Growth

At Yellowstone Academy, caring people like Alissa and her teammates are committed to creating learning experiences that support healing and personal growth. Gardening projects are just one example of how the Academy blends academics, therapeutic support, and real-world skills to help prepare youth for life.

We’re grateful for the heart Alissa and the Yellowstone Academy team bring to their work with the kids entrusted to our care. Together, they’re planting seeds of hope, healing, and strength.

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 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.