Jeremiah and Tara Holmes, long-time donors of Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, have spent much of their careers immersed in the ranching industry. Their experiences have shaped their strong work ethic and genuine spirit—values they hold dear. Nearly 10 years ago, they came across an article in The Western Horseman about Boys Ranch, and they were deeply moved. After reading about how Boys Ranch provides children with a supportive family environment that fosters growth—physically, mentally, and spiritually—they decided to become monthly donors.
“My wife and I grew up in the Midwest, in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We look back on those times and working in a ranch atmosphere was an amazing way to raise our own kids. They learned what they were capable of,” Jeremiah said. “Growing up on a ranch teaches life lessons and builds character. It’s vital to have that kind of upbringing.”
The Holmes’ story began in Oklahoma City when Jeremiah was working as a farrier. Tara’s father attempted to set them up, but fate took over when they met at the Spooner Rodeo in 1997. They now have three children, two of whom are involved in the first responder industry. Their youngest son is a professional bronc rider, who recently made the finals at the Northwest Pearl Rodeo and volunteers with the local fire department. Their middle son has followed in their footsteps, working as a rancher.
In July 2024, Jeremiah, Tara, and their daughter, Melody, stepped in to help fight the devastating wildfires that ravaged Spray County, Oregon. Jeremiah, now a county deputy for the sheriff’s department, also served as a volunteer firefighter, while Tara and Melody worked as EMTs. Their son-in-law helped with the wildfires that hit the Texas Panhandle in March 2024 as a dozer operator.
“The fires in Spray County burned 160,000 acres, which is about 16 percent of the county,” Jeremiah said. “We had around 30 to 35 firefighters—that’s the whole roster of all six departments in the area. Another 30 to 40 community members, not part of the fire departments, pitched in wherever they could. That spirit of helping out in a crisis has been instilled in us and our kids. We don’t think we’re special—we just do what needs to be done to protect our rural community.”
For the Holmes family, life isn’t confined to the typical 9-to-5 responsibilities. It’s about caring for home and family, no matter the hour. When they visited Boys Ranch, they saw a community with a strong family atmosphere and a culture where everyone does what it takes to get the job done.
“It’s funny, because the first night we were at Boys Ranch, it rained,” Tara said. “We were talking with Mike Pacino (Boys Ranch gift officer and historian) about how both Oregon and the Texas Panhandle are prone to fires, but that first rain felt like God’s grace.”
Jeremiah added, “I always like to learn the history of where I’m at. Mike showed us some of the farmland and shared the awesome things happening at Boys Ranch. It’s important for us as donors to know what we’re supporting. Seeing the kids, hearing their dreams, and understanding the mission—it’s not just a donation to a 501(c)(3). It’s about being part of a community.”
Tara agreed, and said, “It’s something we invest in. We know where our support is going, and it makes us feel like part of the team.”
One thing that resonated deeply with Jeremiah is that Boys Ranch doesn’t rely on government funding. “The government does what it can with the resources it has, but its hands are often tied,” he said. “A donation-driven organization like Boys Ranch can use scripture and faith to truly build these kids’ character and spirituality.”
For the Holmes family, giving back to Boys Ranch is their way of making a lasting impact. While they choose to provide financial gifts, they encourage others to find their own way to contribute.
“Figure out how God wants you to support,” Tara said. “Whether it’s through financial donations, volunteering, or even prayer. When we visited the ranch, I remember seeing a boy raising the flag. Every so often, his face comes to mind, and I pray for him. If you want to support Boys Ranch, learn about it and follow where God leads you.”