PNM program grants $15K to youth ranch

Galloping Grace Youth Ranch officially opened its on-site Nature Trail with a grand opening ceremony on July 18.

The Nature Trail was made possible thanks to a $15,000 Power Up Grant from the PNM Resources Foundation. PNM Power Up Grants are awarded to fund projects that build vibrant communities throughout New Mexico.

The Nature Trail is intended to be used by ranch participants as a way to teach children and visitors about New Mexico’s unique terrain and animal life, provide a path for exercise and socialization while visitors participate in the educational activities and programs offered at the ranch.

GGYR Junior Leaders, registered campers and those who visit the ranch during the scheduled public days will have the opportunity to use the family-friendly, 1,600-foot trail. Animal pens, educational spaces and communal places are located in proximity to the path, and invite a flexible environment where children and families can interact and experience the synergy with animals and nature while playing and learning together.

GGYR is a local farm/ranch in Rio Rancho that offers and promotes programs that educate children about farming and sustainable practices through experiences growing crops and raising livestock on a working ranch. GGYR operates a variety of programs throughout the year in hopes of contributing to a healthier community by creating opportunities for children and families to engage in educational activities in a natural environment.

GGYR’s Summer Camps and Junior Leadership training programs reach more than 250 kids each year. The youth programs are geared toward kids ages 4 to 17 years old, and encourage peer interaction and education all while having fun with the animals during daily experiences on the ranch. The new Nature Trail will add one more opportunity for this type of positive interaction for the participants and families at GGYR, working to fulfill its mission of exploring the outdoors.

For more information, visit www. ggyr.org.