In the fall, we had two residential volunteers join the Maintenance department, both of whom are former interns. Holly McClain came on as a part-time work program assistant upon completion of her internship, while Joseph Snyder’s (‘18) duties primarily consist of landscaping.
In the Food Service department, we welcomed Kim Gilliland, long-time Grass Valley resident and local AWANA Club Director, as assistant to Food Service Manager Chris Unitt. Olivia Crissman finishes up her one-year internship this month and will transition into the Food Service department as a residential volunteer early next year. Somehow, it’s almost Christmas. Here at the Ranch, this means we’ll soon be prepping to go caroling, planning the grand Christmas banquet, and scouring closets and cupboards for good--maybe “suitable” is a better word than “good”-- white elephant gifts.
While Christmas brings many gifts, one of the best gifts is not an actual object: it’s the opportunity to thank God for all He has given us. Every single good gift finds its true origin in Him, and as the greatest gift of all, He gave us Himself. We have much to celebrate indeed. As we draw to the close of another year, we also pause to celebrate God’s provision for the Ranch Family. A great deal was accomplished this year, and God’s good gifts were evident throughout. Every day our young people achieved victories, choosing healing, truth, and love, and overcoming brokenness one moment at a time. Alongside this, many items from the Master Plan were completed, and organizational growth steadily occurred. Here are a few highlights: January The year began with a large donation on January 1st for the recreation room remodel project, and our maintenance crew and volunteers promptly began the job. A couple of weeks later, the Ranch family completed an excellent trip to the forest to build igloos, character, and teamwork. February The maintenance team finished remodeling all the girls’ dorm interiors, making them more comfortable, pleasant, and modern. March A team of donors from the paving industry led by Agony rider Paul McClain laid fresh road base and asphalt over some Ranch roads. Around the same time the Board of Directors completed a comprehensive review with an attorney of foundational documents and policies, strengthening the ministry.
Did you know that for over 30 years, Christian Encounter has had an active Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) membership?
This means all financial operations are done in strict accordance with the guidelines of the ECFA. Want to learn more about ECFA's standards? Watch the video below: |