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Nov 9 - Dec 31, 2023

Rancho Cielo Youth Campus

Mission

Rancho Cielo’s mission is to invest in all young people facing challenges for success through diploma education, vocational training, counseling, and life skills development in a safe and affirming environment.

The Big Idea

Rancho Cielo is committed to empowering 16–24-year-old at-promise students from Monterey County to break the cycle of poverty through high-quality education, workforce development, and wrap-around services. Our big idea centers around enriching all students with transformative experiences and hands-on skills in beekeeping, dog care, bike mechanics, horsemanship, gardening, fishing, and art, while prioritizing mental well-being. Engaging with nature on our campus fosters a sense of calmness, positively impacting students' mental states and academic performance. This holistic approach equips our diverse youth with essential life skills, instilling self-confidence and motivation for a successful future.

Julie Gonzalez found the supportive community she needed at Rancho Cielo. Gonzalez initially discovered the Drummond Culinary Academy in 2017, but believed it was not for her. Her delinquency led to her Rancho Cielo’s Silver Star program and then welding and fabrication, which she is projected to graduate from in spring 2024. Her peers were a lifeline, and now she feels like she is thriving. As long as they come with open minds, “this is an opportunity for youth to improve their lives,” she says.

- Julie Gonzalez