In 1966 Juvenile Court Judge D. Arthur
Yergey felt a burden the need for a residential facility for young boys
who had exhibited negative social behavior due to family circumstances. Our
Lord led Judge Yergey to John W. "Jack" Lynd, who subsequently opened
Edgewood Ranch in Orlando. The goal of Yergey and Lynd was to rescue and
rehabilitate these children. Through loving care, hard work and prayer the boys
were given a safe environment in which to alter their destructive behavior, to
learn and to grow.
The results of that Holy Guidance have been dramatic. As of 2002, Edgewood
Children's Ranch has had nearly a 90% success rate serving more than 3600
frightened, troubled boys and girls. In 2001 there were 93 children who
benefited from the program and 129 parents were provided with parenting
classes.
Through its residential coeducational program for boys and girls, ages 6-17,
the Ranch today is able to accommodate more than 70 children at a time. Yet the
methods and goals are the same as in 1966 - love and prayer, bringing about
mended hearts and lives.
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