Boys Ranch is a 'good place' for Josh

Big Josh, as he’s known around the Arkansas Baptist Boys Ranch, is excelling in school. Josh’s growing respect for others is evident to all. His self-respect is increasing as he put his past behind him and looks to the future.

“I really messed up in … school before coming to the Ranch,” recalled Josh. “Mr. Gary and Mrs. Priscilla, (houseparents) have helped guide me in school … and in life.”

Josh, 17, is 6’5” and has been at the Boys Ranch since August 2009. When he arrived, he had an extremely low Grade Point Average (GPA), a wide stubborn streak and anger outbursts. Josh’ manners were lacking, and his respect for authority was nil.

“My dad believed the Ranch could help,” said Josh.

It appears his father was correct. Over the last several months, Josh has shown great strides in school, his attitude and demeanor. He has brought his GPA up to 2.9. He is always eager to help others and lend a helping hand.

“Josh is doing very well,” said Priscilla Bean. “The Ranch is having a great effect on Josh.

“We have a good rapport with Josh and he is very respectful …” she added. “The Ranch has helped Josh in discipline and staying focused ... Jesus and the Holy Spirit are working strong in his heart now.”

Josh credits his success to the godly parenting of the Beans. The Beans serve as houseparents for eight boys in the Ranch’s Cherokee Cottage.
“When Josh came to our cottage, we encouraged him and let him know he was a special young man and that his grades should reflect his abilities,” shared Priscilla Bean. “We told him that his school work was one area in his life that he could control. He is now doing well in school.”

During his time at the Ranch, Josh has also become active in extra-curricular and church activities.

A junior at Bergman high school, Josh plays defense on the soccer team. He is also is a member of the schools’ Rapid Response team, a group of students that are trained in emergency situations. He’s taken part in Ranch camping trips and outings.

At his church, Eagle Heights Baptist of Harrison, Josh volunteers in the AWANA program. He is an AWANA “Listening Leader,” where he works with third through sixth grade students and listens to them recite their memory verses.

“The kids love Josh and he loves them,” said Priscilla Bean.

While many areas are improving in Josh’s life, he is quick to note that he still faces some issues. “I get angry sometimes, and Mrs. Priscilla knows just how to help me.  She’s very helpful.”

Mr. Bean, Josh adds, is helping teach him about things in life and the Bible. The boys and houseparents have devotions daily.

“In our cottage Gary teaches a Proverbs lesson to the boys every morning, and Josh is growing in this and seeing how it applies to his everyday life,” said Priscilla Bean, adding that the Bible studies and Ranch atmosphere is impacting Josh’s life.

Josh agrees. “The Ranch has been a pretty good place for me.”