Finding Purpose and Faith at Boys Ranch
A close-knit community is what 17-year-old Deg found at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch. The high school senior shares his remarkable journey from New York to the Texas Panhandle.
Three years ago, Deg’s life changed as he, along with his sister and brother arrived at Boys Ranch – a place known by their family to provide a stable environment and sense of belonging.
The transition from the crowded schools of New York to the quieter atmosphere of Boys Ranch was a culture shock for Deg. Going from a 6A school to a 2A school with fewer than 150 students presented an entirely new world.
“It was weird at first, but I adjusted to it,” he said.
Having his siblings by his side provided a crucial support system during the initial period of adjustment. They spent their first days together, which eased their transition.
“At first it was a struggle,” Deg said, revealing that he initially wanted to leave Boys Ranch. However, as time passed, he adapted and learned to appreciate the sense of community that the campus offers.
For Deg, the turning point came through two significant avenues – sports and the support of others who helped him navigate this new life. The opportunity to participate in sports, something he had always wanted but couldn’t do before, made a profound impact on his personal growth. Deg is involved in multiple sports, including football, basketball, baseball and track.
“I found something that I really enjoyed doing,” he said, highlighting how athletics taught him valuable life lessons, including self-control and teamwork.
Beyond sports, Deg is involved in various other activities at Boys Ranch. He recently ventured into culinary arts, where he is discovering the art of cooking. He sees it as an opportunity to explore his cultural heritage through food and connect with his Ethiopian roots.
Deg acknowledges the impact of Boys Ranch, not only for opening doors to various activities but also for helping him become a more outgoing and well-rounded individual. His journey at Boys Ranch didn’t just encompass personal growth and academic pursuits.
It also helped him strengthen his faith. Deg emphasized the importance of building a relationship with God and surrounding himself with Godly people.
As he prepares to leave Boys Ranch following high school graduation, he plans to find a church and community that aligns with his faith and values.
“I always knew of God, but I wasn’t of God. So I felt whenever I came to the ranch, I have finally built a relationship with God, and I’ve been able to surround myself with Godly people,” Deg said.
“It’s been a big part of my life, and it’s been very helpful for me.”
Looking ahead, Deg has ambitious plans. He aspires to attend college, earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and become a traveling nurse.
His desire to help people and make a difference extends even further.
He dreams of returning to Ethiopia to provide support to those less fortunate.
Support from donors at Boys Ranch means the world.
“It’s a great feeling when people that don’t even know you care about you,” he said.
He deeply appreciates that donors care about his future and the futures of countless other children at Boys Ranch.
Their contributions provide essential resources and support, creating a nurturing environment where young individuals can thrive.
For any young person considering Boys Ranch, Deg offers simple but profound advice.
“Trust the process,” he said.
He acknowledges that it may start slow, but eventually, the privileges and advantages Boys Ranch provides will become apparent, making the journey well worth the effort.