Honoring Our Incredible Volunteers
November 13, 2024
At Candlelight Ranch, the heart of everything we do is powered by the dedication of our amazing volunteers and partner organizations. From enriching our programs to creating unforgettable moments for the children and families we serve, their commitment and passion for helping others make all the difference. We are grateful to shine a light on their incredible contributions and the impact they have on our mission to bring joy, connection, and growth to those who visit our Ranch.
Nobility in Action is an organization with a powerful mission and has touched the lives of so many at the Ranch. This entirely volunteer-led group, driven by passionate women from diverse professions — physicians, engineers, teachers, and community leaders — empowers children to unlock their full potential. By offering interactive workshops, they help enhance memory, boost brainpower, and teach practical tools for lifelong success. On Family Day events and during our Children in Nature programs, Nobility in Action goes above and beyond. Not only do they provide all the ingredients for delicious plant-based meals, but they also engage our young visitors in the cooking process. These hands-on workshops teach children practical cooking skills while highlighting the benefits of healthy eating for a better quality of life. It’s more than just a meal — it’s an experience that leaves children and their families feeling nourished, empowered, and inspired. The energy and generosity of this group have truly left a lasting mark on the Ranch, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support.
Lago Vista Women’s Club, a cherished partner whose amazing women have been supporting us for years, bringing their culinary skills and Southern hospitality to our Military Family Days. Their warm smiles and homemade meals create a welcoming atmosphere, making our veterans and their families feel appreciated and at home. Beyond cooking, they also support us through their community grant program and spread holiday cheer by decorating the Ranch each year for our family holiday celebrations. The care and love they put into their service are felt by everyone who comes to the Ranch, and we are so thankful for their unwavering support.
Of course, none of our adventure programming would be possible without our dedicated Zipline & High Ropes Facilitators. These incredible individuals are the backbone of our high ropes course, ensuring our campers have safe and memorable experiences. They undergo extensive training to operate the ropes course, including our signature “Carolyn’s Canyon Crawl” bridge, and learn how to use adaptive equipment to make these adventures accessible for campers with mobility challenges. It takes at least 7-9 volunteers to run the course smoothly, and we are always in need of hands to help. These volunteers give our campers the confidence to step outside their comfort zones, soar through the trees, and leave with hearts full of joy. If you’re interested in joining this remarkable team, please reach out to our Program Manager, Adrian Dearmond, at [email protected].
Each fall, we are fortunate to welcome Service Learning Students from The University of Texas’ School of Social Work. These students are a breath of fresh air, bringing enthusiasm and new perspectives as they assist with our Ranch activities. By helping facilitate our programs, they not only gain valuable hands-on experience but also create lasting memories for our children and families, ensuring that each visit is truly the “best day ever.” A special shout-out to our current service learning students Caroline Willson and Kelsey Behrens who have been an incredible help this Fall!
This Fall, we were honored to receive the Ultimate Gift from the Hill Country Chapter of the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL). 39 volunteers, consisting of mother-son teams, came together for a day of hard work and dedication. Their efforts restored our picnic areas, cleared hiking trails, cleaned facilities, and revitalized the gardens and riverbed around our new Hideaway building. The transformation was nothing short of incredible, making the Ranch more beautiful and accessible for all. And the best news? They aren’t finished yet! We’re excited for two more upcoming workdays with these dedicated volunteers, who will continue to enhance the beauty and conservation of our property. We are also always delighted to have their helpful and serving spirit on Family Day events and for camp groups throughout the year! Thank you!
The impact of these volunteers and organizations goes beyond the physical improvements — they bring heart and hope to everything we do. By dedicating their time, energy, and talents, they help us create a space where children and families can connect with nature, learn new skills, and find joy in the simplest moments.
To each and every one of you who has given your time and talents to Candlelight Ranch, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You make the magic happen, and we couldn’t do it without you. Your commitment means the world to us and to the countless families who leave the Ranch with smiles on their faces and memories that will last a lifetime.