47th Sheriff's Boys and Girls Ranch kicks off in June

The 47th season of the Kentucky Sheriffs' Boys and Girls ranch kicks off this June in Gilbertsville, and director Jerry Wagner is spreading the word about the organization's mission.

The ranch searches for Kentucky children between ages 8 to 11 and attempts to change the direction their life may be heading in.

"We give them an opportunity they've never had before. We try to find young children that we think we can truly make a difference in their life," Wagner said. "It gives children from other parts of the state the opportunity to come to West Kentucky, to do things that some of us may take for granted."

The ranch consists of numerous activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, archery, scavenger hunts, arts & crafts, swimming, sports, educational classes, and more.

The children receive three meals and snacks. They also have nursing staff always available.

Wagner said the basic idea of the whole experience is to allow children to build a rapport with law enforcement.

"On your drive down and your drive back, you get to know your local sheriff or your local sheriff's deputies, and then you get to know other officers during the week while you're there." Wagner continued, "More importantly, for all of them, they have the opportunity to meet children from all over the state. So that's a very rewarding week."

The ranch survives off donations, and there are several ways to donate, including their website, calling 270-362-8660, or emailing ky665@bellsouth.net. 

"We don't operate on tax money. We operate solely on donations and money that come from the communities throughout Kentucky. That's how we've survived for 47 years, and that's how we're going to continue surviving," Wagner said.

Wagner encouraged the public to give what they could.