In 1988, Christian community leaders in Cokato recognized a need to support the area’s struggling youth, specifically boys. They quickly put thoughts into action, establishing the Village Ranch Residential Home in Cokato, a registered 501(c)(3) where today both boys and girls - and their families - receive the needed support to help them discover their own strengths, develop their unique skills, and rebuild themselves as a family.

Village Ranch’s mission and success is based on Core Values of Servant Heart, Humility, Integrity, Gratitude, Relationship Centered and Respect. Since 1988, Village Ranch has grown its founder’s mission to include a continuum of programs and services - from Outpatient Services to 24/7 Residential Care and Foster Care - for children and adolescents throughout Minnesota.

“We knew there were more kids in the community hurting, and we needed to reach them, as well,” says Village Ranch CEO, Scott Bakeberg. “That is why we have expanded our services to include outpatient care and additional locations. We strive to meet our clients where they are at and ensure no one falls through the cracks.”

Scott Bakeberg
Chief Executive Officer

1988: Based on a need to support the area’s youth, specifically boys, Village Ranch residence in Cokato, Minnesota, was built.

2008: Expanding on the success of its programs and services, Village Ranch Child and Family Services, a non-profit company with a Board of Directors separate from Village Ranch, was incorporated with the purpose of reaching out to more families struggling with disruptive behaviors or violence in their homes.

2009: Tim Wright, PhD, Psychology, becomes director of Village Ranch Child and Family Services and implements Outpatient Services in Anoka and Cokato.

2010: Village Ranch Child and Family Services is enlisted to provide consulting to Independent School District 287.

2011: Village Ranch Hutchinson House is established, providing transitional services to young men between the ages of 15 to 19.

2015: Village Ranch expanded our group home concept to Rochester, Minnesota.

2016: Village Ranch opened its first girls home in Annandale, Minnesota, providing services to young women between the ages of 12 and 18.

2018: Village Ranch begins its Family Focus Program, a 12-week program that centers around assisting parents with transitioning their adolescent home with the necessary support and services to ensure successful reintegration into the community.