We are currently licensed for 22 boys and can take boys from ages 12-17. We do accept waivers for children under 12. Most of our children need only the basic traditional care, but we do provide additional watchful oversight for up to 8 boys. We have had success with children who come from basic foster care who need more structure and services, and also those who are stepping down from more intense programs. 

The Goshen Valley Boys Ranch believes that the family model is most beneficial for assisting Georgia’s children in need of care. This allows for the least restrictive, most family-centered and community-based setting.   A loving, married and highly-screened houseparent couple cares for six boys per home.

Following are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What is your RBWO program designation?
We provide base/traditional care, but we have 8 beds available for children who need Watchful Oversight.

What is the intake process?
We request all pertinent case information, including social history, psychological exam report, school information and a description of the boy’s challenges. An application packet can be faxed or mailed at your request.

How long do most boys stay in the Ranch program?
This depends on their DFCS case plan.  Some children stay for only a few weeks while others have been here for several years.

Where is the Ranch located?
We are located approximately 50 miles north of Atlanta in northwest Cherokee County. Get specific driving directions.

Where do the boys attend school?
Presently, the boys are transported into Waleska and Canton to attend public school where they participate in many activities.

What is your capacity?
We are currently licensed for 24 boys.

What are some of the unique attributes of your program?
Houseparent couples at the Goshen Valley Boys Ranch care for each boy’s emotional and physical well-being. They create an atmosphere of caring and openness through nightly family gatherings, where each boy is encouraged to express himself. Houseparent couples generate a daily behavior report for each boy that allows them to identify problem areas, provide appropriate counsel and acknowledge good behavior.

What is the nature of the living conditions?
Each boy has his own bedroom and bathroom. This helps foster independent living skills and allows for privacy and quiet time when needed. Boys also have access to community space including a computer lab, game area, family-style dining room and Ranch green space.

Are you a faith-based agency?  Are you affiliated with any particular church?
Yes. Though we are not affiliated with any particular church or denomination, we believe that faith in God is an essential part of our daily lives, and we live this out in front of the boys.

Do you take siblings?
Yes, we currently have three sets of brothers in our program, and are open to sibling sets if the age range is not too broad.

Does the Ranch have an Independent Living Program for those who leave at age 18?
Currently, we do have an Independent Living Program.  Which focuses on transitional living skills. 

Is the Ranch a for-profit corporation?
We are a non-profit 501c(3) agency under the rules of the IRS.