Leavitt Great West recently spent an afternoon volunteering at Special K Ranch, helping the organization prepare for its annual Open House on June 13. The event is a highlight for the ranch and showcases the work and dedication of its 35 residents.
Special K Ranch is a nonprofit organization that provides adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to live, work, and build meaningful lives in a supportive community. Through hands-on work such as gardening, animal care, and ranch maintenance, residents gain independence, purpose, and a strong sense of connection.
The Open House serves as both a celebration and a fundraiser, where plants, vegetables, fruits, and flowers grown by residents are made available for purchase. Each item represents months of care and commitment, making the event a meaningful reflection of the ranch’s mission and the people behind it.
To help support the ranch’s efforts, a volunteer group—including Jared Samuelson, Paul O’Neil, Jennifer Mitchell, Cora Twing, and Ashley Slehofer—spent the day in the greenhouse planting strawberries. It was a simple project, but an important one in preparing for the upcoming event.
What stood out most, though, wasn’t the work. It was the people.
The ranch staff created an atmosphere that was welcoming, upbeat, and full of personality. Their enthusiasm for what they do came through in every interaction, making the experience as enjoyable as it was meaningful. The team had the chance to get to know several staff members, including one resident who will serve as the DJ for the Open House, playing drums and providing live entertainment. He mentioned that it’s something he looks forward to each year.
“At one point, one of the staff members joked about getting too warm in the greenhouse and removed her outer pants to reveal biker shorts underneath — which gave all of us a good laugh and added to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere,” said Ashley.
It was the team’s first time visiting the ranch, and it left a strong impression. Ashley remarked that they’re already looking forward to going back.
