ASYR Celebrates Opening of Raney Hall
The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce joined community leaders, Arkansas Sheriffs, supporters, board members, staff, and the Raney family to celebrate the official dedication and ribbon-cutting of Raney Hall, a new residential home at the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches.
The ceremony was an important moment in the Ranch’s 50-year mission to bring hope, healing, and stability to Arkansas children facing tough times.
“Today, it's my pleasure to welcome you to the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch as we celebrate our newest home, Raney Hall,” said Ray Dillon, President of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches Board of Trustees. “This year, we're celebrating our 50th anniversary of service to some of Arkansas's most vulnerable youth. Since 1976, the Ranch has been a place of hope and healing and a place to call home for more than 2,300 boys and girls from across Arkansas. With the addition of Raney Hall, we will be able to serve even more children over the next 50 years.”
Raney Hall was made possible thanks to the generosity of Phillip and Verna Raney of Ozark. The new home will provide up to eight children at a time with a safe and caring place to grow, learn, heal, and thrive, with the support of dedicated house parents and staff.
Nancy Fulton, CEO of the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches, thanked the Raney family and community members for supporting the Ranch’s mission.
“The Ranch exists to serve some of the most vulnerable children in Arkansas,” Fulton said. “The Raney family has enabled us to expand our ability to care for children who need a safe and loving home. This gift will leave a legacy for generations of children and families. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and commitment to our mission.”
At the ceremony, Fulton recognized Raney family members who traveled from Illinois and Texas to attend and gave Phillip and Verna Raney a commemorative plaque to thank them for their generous gift.
Raney Hall is more than just a new building. It stands for hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for children in need. With this addition, the Ranch can help even more children and continue its mission for many years.
The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches on this achievement and thanks the Raney family for their generosity and support of Arkansas children.
Ambassadors in attendance included: Abigail Ballard (Lifeplus), Kirsten Martin (Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches), Lori Campbell (Batesville School District), Michele Jennae (EDG Coaching), and Taylor Williams (First Community Bank).
