The Stevens & Pruett Ranch, a project of the Stevens & Pruett Foundation for Children and Animals, is only a few minutes from Houston, but it is worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this quiet, peaceful setting there is refuge for the innocents of this world, man or beast.

In the early 1990�s, this 38-acre working ranch in northern Brazoria County was a swampy, overgrown pastureland. Like those for which it was being developed, it was neglected and in need of gentle, loving care. Today, thanks to the untiring efforts of a small band of volunteers and the generosity of many, it is a dream that is taking shape.

For years now Jim Pruett (shown on the right) and Mark Stevens have used their popular morning radio program to educate a responsive listening audience on the plight of animals who cannot care for or defend themselves. The ranch is now home to a wide variety of such abused, neglected or abandoned creatures, and there is room for many more.

But that is only the beginning. The first of nine planned homes, each designed to accommodate up to a dozen male youths (ages 13-17), state-licensed administrator and house parents, is complete and occupation increases on what seems like a daily basis. As a state-licensed facility, the largest percentage of child placements at the ranch stems from various child protective service organizations and family courts. Private placements are supported as well. The occupants of this home learn first-hand the responsibility and joy of caring for the animals with which they share the ranch while striving to acquire self-esteem, social and daily-living skills.

"Valuable therapy can be derived from learning to live with and care for animals," says Pruett. "Daily interaction can help the kids and animals both regain some of that lost trust and begin the healing process. Once a child who has been neglected himself can nurture an animal, it is easier for him to relate to peers and then to adults. Trust is established and the goodness of the child is released, encouraging him to risk human connection." This truly is a place where a youngster can learn about nature and himself, free from fear and the pressures of life in today�s too often cruel and uncaring world. It is a place of healing and nurturing, of discovery and friendship, of caring and love.

The Stevens & Pruett Foundation for Children and Animals is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1980. Complete financial reports are available upon request. "It is crucial for the survival of a project of this magnitude that we attract the support of the community," says Pruett. "That support can be shown in many ways. Whatever you can give � time, talents, materials, money � all are necessary ingredients for success". For additional information or to make a donation, please call (281)489-4255 or visit our WEB site at www.rocktheranch.com. Visitors are always welcome at the Stevens & Pruett Ranch and scheduled tours are available. "Come out and see what we are doing," say Pruett. "Share the dream. It may well be the most exciting and rewarding experience of your life."