Rusty's Morningstar Ranch | About Us

About Us

LIVE LIKE A RANCHER

The ranchers live at the ranch with around-the-clock staff members who help them with the chores, learning, and assist in recreation. The ranch has a work program filled with many social-style activities. The ranchers do their work in the morning and volunteer, exercise, and go on social outings in the afternoon. Evenings we wind down and enjoy a family-style dinner and relax.

LET'S HAVE SOME FUN

When they are finished with their chores, it is time for play. During the summer, one of their favorite things to do is swim, particularly for Coby and Brian. “Brian loves the water. He could stay in the pool all day and all night.”

Programs Offered

Our days are filled with a balanced mix of work, recreation, learning, and spiritual fulfillment. We garden, care for animals, maintain the ranch, ride, swim, and volunteer in the community. We look at life as a learning experience and use every opportunity to enhance language and practical living skills.

Our goal is to integrate all of these things into a unifying whole so that life is truly as rich and fulfilling as possible. Once this is accomplished, we can (and do) reach out and become a part of our larger community. The local community is small and supportive and the Ranchers have many opportunities for social integration.

Entrance Requirements

In keeping with our vision of being the preferred resource for all adults with autism, Rusty's Morningstar Ranch invites men and women who are 18 years of age or older and diagnosed with autism or autistic-like conditions (Phenylketonuria, Fragile X Syndrome, etc.) to visit with us and tour the ranch to see if our programs pique your interests. The ranchers who have made this their "forever home" have had an interest in active lifestyles and participating in outdoor activities with partners who support and encourage their curiosity and their willingness to try new things and take risks with dignity.

(Applications are being accepted exclusively for our day program as we currently have no openings in our homes. Call for details.)

FEW WORDS ABOUT RUSTY'S

Rusty’s Morningstar Ranch is a place in the country where people with autism can learn to live happy and productive lives. Deep in the heart of Cornville, it is home to 12 very special people. It is not a big ranch, but with our members, we run the 10 acres they call home.