43 Years of Caring: Laurie Moore’s Legacy at YBGR
Recognize this little lady? It’s Laurie Moore, Program Manager at the Ranch! Last month, Laurie celebrated an incredible 43 years at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR).
When asked for a photo, Laurie opted for a baby picture over a recent one—so we’re rolling with it! But don’t let that sweet face fool you. Laurie is tough as nails when it comes to serving kids with integrity and standing by her team. She embodies our mission: Caring people, preparing youth for life.
A Lifelong Commitment to Kids and Community
Laurie’s dedication runs deep. Over the years, she has not only invested in the lives of countless youth but also mentored teammates as they grow into caring professionals. She has watched YBGR evolve—from a small refuge in Billings to a statewide network delivering mental health care across Montana.
Thank You, Laurie!
Laurie, your commitment to our mission, your crewmates, and the kids we serve is nothing short of inspiring. Your work has shaped lives, strengthened our purpose, and left a lasting impact on countless youth.
Words can’t express our gratitude for your sacrifice, service, and loyalty over the years. We are so fortunate to have you on our team!
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, 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.
Honoring Remarkable Women – meet YBGR’s Jasmine Hansen
8 Tips to Master Active Listening
What’s active listening? You close your mouth and let the other person speak. Right?
Not quite. There’s more to it than that.
How to Practice Active Listening
Here’s a guide to active listening inspired by the book, The Empathetic Workplace by Katharine Manning, that you can draw on for trauma-informed conversations in and out of the workplace.
Encouragement
Make brief and gentle sounds such as “ahh” & “got it” to encourage the other person to continue their story, ensuring it’s subtle and keeps the focus on them.
Eye contact
Where we focus is what we care about. That said, read the other party—if they refuse to make eye contact, it could signal they are uncomfortable, and you should follow suit.
Mirroring
We mimic the body language of the person we’re speaking with when we are fully engaged. Doing it too much can be creepy, but a subtle nod to it will create ease in a conversation.
Looping
Repeat what the other person says as closely as possible to their exact words.
Clarification
Seeking clarification shows the other person you are listening, and ensures you understand what they’re saying.
Ask open-ended questions
Typically, open-ended questions begin with what, where, when, and why and are a great way to kick-start a conversation if the speaker peters out or, conversely, get it back on track if they are heading off on a tangent.
If they’re triggered, you will notice they either become emphatic, and the conversation will become less productive, or they will shut down and stop talking altogether.
Read demeanor
Be mindful that when someone shares a story of trauma, it can be re-traumatizing—back off if it appears that responding to questions is difficult and allow a break if needed.
Body language
Keep body language loose and calm, maintaining an open stance while facing the other person. Be careful not to look down, out the window, or at their hands.
Want more?
Check out the rest of our blog 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.
Strength in Tradition: Youth in Wellbriety Create Medicine Wheel
At the heart of our work lies a deep commitment to healing—not just in mind, but in body, spirit, and community. This morning, youth in our Wellbriety program at the Ranch created a powerful symbol of their journey: a Medicine Wheel.
Wellbriety: A Culturally Rooted Path to Healing
Guided by Josie Brady, our Native American Services Coordinator and a White Bison-certified facilitator in Medicine Wheel + 12 Steps for Youth, the exercise mapped values across all four directions, tying them into the 12-step recovery process.
More than just a recovery program, Wellbriety integrates culture, spirituality, and personal growth. Each week, youth participate in smudging ceremonies, talking circles, and reflection—fostering balance, strength, and long-term sobriety.
These traditional practices reconnect them to their roots while providing a strong foundation for lasting wellness.
The Power of the Medicine Wheel in Recovery
The Medicine Wheel is a sacred symbol in many Native traditions, representing balance and the interconnectedness of life. The four directions (North, South, East, West), are often used as a guide for living a balanced life and achieving spiritual harmony.
In Wellbriety, it serves as a visual guide to healing, mapping emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being across all four directions. By incorporating these teachings, youth gain a deeper understanding of their journey toward sobriety and personal growth.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, 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.
YBGR’s Supported Employment Program Helps Youth Thrive
At Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch (YBGR), preparing youth for life means more than academics—it’s about building the skills, confidence, and opportunities young people need to excel in the real world. That’s exactly what Elizabeth Campoy, Supported Employment Supervisor, and Erica Kern, Supported Employment Specialist, are passionate about.
Building Skills That Last a Lifetime
Every day, Elizabeth, Erica, and their team make a difference by helping youth gain the tools they need to thrive—not just in the workforce but in life. Their work goes beyond job placement. It’s about building confidence, independence, and resilience.
Through the Supported Employment Program, they provide:
- Career coaching to help explore strengths and interests
- Resume writing guidance that gives a competitive edge
- Interview preparation to boost confidence
- On-site job support to help youth succeed long-term
It’s all about making sure youth are prepared—not just for their first job, but for everything life throws their way.
Partnering with the Community
A big part of the program’s success comes from strong partnerships with local employers in Yellowstone County. These relationships open doors, connecting youth with meaningful job opportunities that fit their interests and strengths.
By working closely with businesses, Elizabeth and Erica make sure youth aren’t just placed in jobs—they’re set up to succeed in them.
The Impact Speaks for Itself
The results say it all:
- 337 youth served through the Supported Employment Program
- Over 500 jobs filled in Yellowstone County
The numbers above, tallied in December 2024, represent lives changed, futures brightened, and young people stepping confidently into adulthood.
It’s About More Than Jobs
What sets YBGR’s Supported Employment Program apart is the focus on long-term success.
It’s about:
- Building confidence so youth believe in themselves
- Teaching resilience so they can overcome challenges
- Providing life skills that serve them well into the future
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about the job—it’s about preparing youth to take on the world.
Thank You to the Team Making It Happen
A huge thank you to Elizabeth Campoy, Erica Kern, and the entire Supported Employment team for living out our mission of “Caring people, preparing youth for life.”
Because of your dedication, hundreds of young people are stepping into the future with the tools and confidence they need to build successful, meaningful lives—and that’s something worth celebrating.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, 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.
Therapy Dogs Help Kids Heal at the Ranch
Have you met the therapy dogs who are making a difference daily at the Ranch? Meet Luca, Elvis, Cooper, and Emmy Lou!
These four aren’t just beloved companions—they’re four-legged therapists helping youth heal, build trust, and regulate emotions in Billings. Their presence provides comfort, connection, and stability for kids who need it most.
Meet Our Canine Team and Their People
Therapy dogs do more than bring smiles—they play a key role in supporting the emotional well-being of the youth in our care.
- Dr. Taylor Clark, Occupational Therapist, with her therapy pup, Luca
- Mackenzie Warren, Equestrian Specialist, with her therapy pup, Elvis.
- Cooper and Emmy Lou with Lisa Frazier, retired Director of Recreational Services
For many kids, therapy dogs offer something people sometimes can’t—a calming, judgment-free presence that makes it easier to open up, build trust, and regulate emotions.
Reducing stress and anxiety
Just being near a therapy dog has been shown to lower stress and help kids feel more at ease.
Building trust and social connections
Many of the youth we serve have experienced trauma. Therapy dogs create a safe space to rebuild trust and connection.
Supporting emotional regulation
Their presence can help kids self-soothe and navigate emotions.
Providing unconditional support
Therapy dogs offer consistent, reliable companionship, giving kids a sense of security and belonging.
A Lasting Impact
We see the impact of our four-legged therapists firsthand every day out at the Ranch. Their support goes beyond the moment—helping kids feel safe, seen, and supported as they navigate their healing journey.
We want to thank Lisa, Mackenzie, Taylor, and our incredible therapy dogs—Luca, Elvis, Cooper, and Emmy Lou. The work you do matters, and the difference you make is lasting.
Need Support?
Check out our Programs tab above to learn more about the therapeutic care we deliver daily at the Ranch and across Montana. Then, contact us online to make a referral.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, 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.
Investing in People — YBGR Staff Take Part in CISM Training
Investing in the caring people who invest in our kids matters. Over the weekend, YBGR staff from across Montana participated in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) training, gaining tools to help teammates process secondary trauma after delivering crisis care to youth.
CISM Training Equips Staff to Support Each Other
At YBGR, we know that a strong team means stronger support for youth. Our work with kids is meaningful and comes with heavy moments, too. No one should carry that weight alone.
CISM training equips staff with the tools to recognize signs of stress and process crisis events with others—so they can continue providing the care kids depend on.
Strengthening Our Team for the Work Ahead
This training is one of the many ways we’re building a culture of care and resilience—ensuring our team has the support needed to keep showing up for Montana’s youth.
Join Our Community of Caring People, Preparing Youth for Life
Looking for a job where you can make an impact while being part of a strong, supportive community? Visit our Careers page today to learn more about our open positions.
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news updates for the latest from around the state, 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.
Kids in Butte Community-Based Services Celebrate Valentine’s Day
See the crafts above? On Friday, the kids in our Butte community-based services celebrated Valentine’s Day with our local team. Their time together went beyond fun—it was an opportunity for connection, creativity, and growth, reflecting our mission: Caring people, equipping youth for life.
Through activities like the ones pictured, kids build relationships and gain skills in creative expression that serve as coping tools they can lean on throughout their lives.
A big thank you to our Butte team for making Valentine’s Day therapeutic and special!
Stay Connected
Stay tuned to our news and events page for the latest YBGR updates from around the state, 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.
McVay Lodge Reopens With a Refresh Thanks to HB 872 Grant
Did you hear the news? Renovations at McVay Lodge are complete—with new bathrooms, thanks to HB 872 grant funding.
While this may seem like a small upgrade, facility improvements like this are critical to expanding our capacity to care for kids who need the structured treatment we provide at the Ranch. These updates allow us to put an additional lodge to use, increasing the number of kids we can serve.
Built to stand the test of time, the new bathrooms are easy to maintain and give the lodge a warm, inviting feel. They help create a space residents can call home—a clean, cozy environment where caring people can prepare youth for life.
Last Thursday, McVay Lodge reopened, welcoming boys from Jessie Grant Lodge while their space undergoes similar renovations.
Expanding Access to Care for Kids
Why does this matter? Because kids deserve access to care in a comfortable place they can take pride in that’s close to home.
Too often, youth needing higher levels of treatment must travel out of state for support—or don’t receive the care they need at all. Through HB 872, the State of Montana is helping change that—allowing providers like us to expand access to care right here in Montana.
By enhancing our facilities, we’re strengthening our ability to provide a structured, supportive environment where kids can stabilize, heal, and grow—without the added burden of being far from home.
Want to Learn More?
Stay tuned for more updates on how we’re working to strengthen care for kids—because they deserve family, support, and hope for the future.
6 Signs of Anxiety in Kids
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges children face—impacting roughly 10% of kids in the United States. As a parent or caregiver, knowing what to look for can help you step in early, offer support, and get your child the help they need to thrive.
Below are six signs of anxiety in children that are easy to miss but important to recognize.
Signs of Anxiety in Kids
Excessive Worry
Kids with anxiety often worry more than what seems reasonable for the situation. They might constantly fear getting sick, being separated from a parent, or doing poorly in school—even when there’s no clear cause for concern.
These worries can feel overwhelming, and your child may not be able to turn them off, no matter how much reassurance you provide.
Physical Symptoms
Anxiety doesn’t just live in the mind—it often shows up in the body.
Stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, and even rapid breathing can all be signs of underlying anxiety, especially if your child experiences them frequently or in response to stressful situations.
Avoidance Behaviors
Kids sometimes cope with anxiety by avoiding the things that trigger it. This might look like refusing to go to school, avoiding social situations, or quitting an activity they used to enjoy. While avoidance can bring immediate relief, it reinforces the fear in the long run and can make anxiety worse over time.
Sleep Disturbances
Anxiety can interfere with sleep in many ways. Kids may have trouble falling asleep because of racing thoughts or wake during the night from bad dreams.
Over time, poor sleep can worsen anxiety and affect mood, concentration, and behavior during the day.
Irritability
It’s not always obvious, but irritability can be a symptom of anxiety. Kids who are anxious may seem cranky, easily frustrated, or quick to anger. These emotional outbursts aren’t just about behavior—they’re often a sign that your child is feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to express it.
Difficulty Concentrating
When kids are anxious, it can be hard to focus. They might struggle to stay on task, follow instructions, or finish homework. You might notice they seem distracted or forgetful, especially when stress is high.
These challenges can be especially tough in school, where performance anxiety can feed into a cycle of frustration and self-doubt.
When to Get Help
If you’ve noticed some of these signs and they’re starting to interfere with your child’s daily life, it may be time to reach out for support. Anxiety is treatable—and with the right tools and guidance, kids can learn to manage it and feel more in control.
Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) provides a wide range of wraparound mental health services designed to help kids heal. Contact us online to get a child support today.
Want More?
Check out the rest of our blog 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.