Jeff is the Founder and Program Director of Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch and Acres for Joy, a 501c3 nonprofit.
In 2004, Jeff purchased the land that is now home to PVYR and Acres for Joy. It was the journey of his 2nd daughter, Abigail Joy, that led to the development of these organizations, and the transformation of a once vacant field int
Jeff is the Founder and Program Director of Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch and Acres for Joy, a 501c3 nonprofit.
In 2004, Jeff purchased the land that is now home to PVYR and Acres for Joy. It was the journey of his 2nd daughter, Abigail Joy, that led to the development of these organizations, and the transformation of a once vacant field into a place of activity, joy, and challenge, all evidenced by the thousands of footprints, hoof-prints, and paw-prints that have tread there, and the care and love that accompanies them.
Jeff is an Eau Claire native, and the father of four daughters and seven grandchildren, who all bring him immense joy. He completed Nursing and Physician Assistant degrees at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, and has been working in the field as a Physician Assistant and Behavioral Health Specialist for 37 years.
While serving as a Physician Assistant remains a high privilege, it is service toward youth and families through Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch that provides the richest rewards for Jeff, allowing him the opportunity to lead with passion and dedication to the continued enrichment of all lives.
I’m new here at PVYR and am enjoying finding my place.
My background is in administration and horses, which are the areas I am excited to be a part of here!
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
is to watch the connections that happen here between the people and the animals - whether it’s a horse, quail or goat! The softness that happens whe
I’m new here at PVYR and am enjoying finding my place.
My background is in administration and horses, which are the areas I am excited to be a part of here!
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
is to watch the connections that happen here between the people and the animals - whether it’s a horse, quail or goat! The softness that happens when those connections are made is a sight to behold and I am blessed to be a part of that.
I am a Ranch Facilitator at Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch. I started working at PVYR in June 2021. When I'm not at the Ranch, you can find me caring for my own animals, or spending time with friends and horses! Animals are my passion!
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
is the variety of animals and getting to know and care for each persona
I am a Ranch Facilitator at Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch. I started working at PVYR in June 2021. When I'm not at the Ranch, you can find me caring for my own animals, or spending time with friends and horses! Animals are my passion!
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
is the variety of animals and getting to know and care for each personality they have to offer! Each animal whether horse, donkey, goat, chicken or quail, all have their own unique personality, and watching the kids find their heart animal they connect with is what bring a smile to my face daily at PVYR.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
Being able to connect with Jellybean, the mini donkey, on a level not many have seen. He and I bond and talk without words flawlessly and I adore caring for him daily while he gives me hugs!
Each and every connection that is made at the ranch, human to human and human to animal, is special. Hosting the school program through Acres For Joy has brought too many memories to just pick one. I love watching each kiddo grow and flourish into something they didn’t expect from themselves, that smile big or small, is the greatest gift and memory I'll hang onto forever.
In June 2023, I started working at PVYR as a CCS Program Coordinator and Youth Mentor. I recently graduated from Northland College with a bachelor's degree in psychology and business administration. During my last year in college, I worked for a CCS provider in Ashland and Bayfield counties. I’m excited to be able to apply my experience t
In June 2023, I started working at PVYR as a CCS Program Coordinator and Youth Mentor. I recently graduated from Northland College with a bachelor's degree in psychology and business administration. During my last year in college, I worked for a CCS provider in Ashland and Bayfield counties. I’m excited to be able to apply my experience there to this current position where I get to work more with youth and animals. When I’m not at the ranch, I enjoy hiking, rock climbing, skiing, crocheting, and writing.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
more to come
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
more to come
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH…
more to come
I’ve been working at PVYR since December 2021, after making a change in my life that helped me pursue my passion for helping others in an organic, experience-rich setting. When I’m not mentoring, you’ll find me on the motorcycle with my wife, out on the road in our jeep, watching birds, enjoying a food experience, buried in a book, or get
I’ve been working at PVYR since December 2021, after making a change in my life that helped me pursue my passion for helping others in an organic, experience-rich setting. When I’m not mentoring, you’ll find me on the motorcycle with my wife, out on the road in our jeep, watching birds, enjoying a food experience, buried in a book, or getting lost in the fantastical world of online gaming.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT…
Being a positive role model and providing support to a mentee so that they can grow in their self-confidence and challenge themselves through new experiences. When I work with kids who are going through challenges, whether big or small, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing them put into practice the guidance and tools that we’ve been working on together.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
is hanging out with the goats; especially giving Felix his head scratches! I also take great joy in helping mentees begin to learn how to craft items in the woodshop.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH…
is helping one of my mentees with autism learn how to mix grain and feed the horses — witnessing him independently take ownership of that task, and watching his self-confidence and sense of responsibility flourish was amazing! I felt an immense sense of pride, myself!
I have been working with horses since I was 13 years old, especially Warmbloods. Most of my experience has been with foals and young horses. I have two bachelor's degrees from Midway University which are Equine Rehabilitation and Business Administration, as well as an EAGALA certification for equine therapy. When I’m not at the ranc
I have been working with horses since I was 13 years old, especially Warmbloods. Most of my experience has been with foals and young horses. I have two bachelor's degrees from Midway University which are Equine Rehabilitation and Business Administration, as well as an EAGALA certification for equine therapy. When I’m not at the ranch, I spend my free time reading, drawing, and hiking with my dog.
MY ROLE AT THE RANCH...
My role as the equine specialist is to make sure everyone (horses and humans alike) stays safe and happy during the session. On top of looking out for the wellbeing of the horses, I assist the mental health specialist by observing the interactions between the horses and clients.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
Is the sense of community that is built, specifically around the animals and their care. I especially love watching the kids interact with the horses. The wonder and excitement they experience around the animals reminds me why I love horses so much.
My career journey includes work as a teacher, seminar planner, therapist and hospital chaplain. As a community volunteer, I’ve learned from people of all ages, experiencing many life traumas and challenges, in many agencies, cultures and countries, always seeking ways that our life experiences and challenges can be applied to bring deepe
My career journey includes work as a teacher, seminar planner, therapist and hospital chaplain. As a community volunteer, I’ve learned from people of all ages, experiencing many life traumas and challenges, in many agencies, cultures and countries, always seeking ways that our life experiences and challenges can be applied to bring deeper understanding within ourselves and in the lives of others. There is so much joy and so much to learn in our short journey in this world. And greater insights when we do life together!
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT… Sharing time together with youth who have reached out with goals for their lives and are seeking new paths for growth. Meeting them where they are and together choosing activities at the ranch and in the community that will challenge them to reach the next step in their journey. Discovering new opportunities, role modeling skills, listening and guiding, sometimes instructing and redirecting, always with care and optimism.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
We are a dedicated team of experienced professionals working together to support the youth in our service. Staff at the ranch encourage us, plan activities, share ideas and offer their expertise as we learn to interact with animals and try unique crafts including leatherwork and wood working. There is amazing flexibility and creativity in our work as we independently plan and role model every mentor session. Each youth has unique goals and challenges -- it’s amazing to be part of their journeys and join with their team of care givers and supporters.
Mentors and mentees have the entire ranch to enjoy together! We learn to interact with goats, chickens, quail, and horses and ponies in fun and safe ways. We can cook and bake in the kitchen, learn new games and skills in the clubhouse, and make fun crafts and wood working projects in the craft barn. During warmer seasons, we can plant and care for vegetables and flowers in the greenhouse and garden areas. And there’s a big court for basketball, tennis, paddleball, even skateboarding… and a barn with ping pong and games. When the manager is present, we may be offered a wagon ride or bonfire for roasting lunch. It’s relaxing to be at the ranch, to experience the peacefulness of the country.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH…
Seeing youth learn how intuitive animals can be, and how each animal – like each person – has their own personality, behaviors and preferences. Finding ways to work with each animal – then transferring our learning to the different people and challenges we each encounter. It’s always encouraging to see youth gain understanding and skills as they find ways to team together to feed Sassy the horse while feeding the other horses and ponies, groom the fun, energetic goats, and hold a quail or chicken.
I was hired as a youth mentor at Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch in May of 2021. Previously, I had been employed at a large non-profit social service for over 10 years. In 2019 I was honored to receive an agency wide Service Leadership Award for Compassion.
When not working, I enjoy being outdoors gardening, hiking with my dogs, biking and vo
I was hired as a youth mentor at Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch in May of 2021. Previously, I had been employed at a large non-profit social service for over 10 years. In 2019 I was honored to receive an agency wide Service Leadership Award for Compassion.
When not working, I enjoy being outdoors gardening, hiking with my dogs, biking and volunteering in the community.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
To me, mentoring is about being a positive role model for a young person. To be there with them as they work towards their goals and celebrate their achievements.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
It's difficult for me to pick a single favorite! Definitely being in the outdoors throughout the seasons among the animals, especially the horses. Last year we built a state of the art greenhouse to grow flowers and vegetables!
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
Again, it's hard to pick just one. Last spring, Mama Bean (a goat) gave birth to not one or two, but three kids. A young mentee was able to witness that on his first day at the ranch. He's been hooked on the ranch ever since. Also, helping someone plant a seed and grow a flower to give to their mother on Mother's Day.
I'm thrilled to be a part of the PVYR mentoring team after spending 2019-2023 working with youth and adolescents in a more clinical setting. When I’m not mentoring, you can find me reading, spending time with my friends and family, and loving my chocolate lab, Kona.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT…
To me, being a mentor is about being a positive s
I'm thrilled to be a part of the PVYR mentoring team after spending 2019-2023 working with youth and adolescents in a more clinical setting. When I’m not mentoring, you can find me reading, spending time with my friends and family, and loving my chocolate lab, Kona.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT…
To me, being a mentor is about being a positive support and role model to a mentee. I hope that I can help my mentees to build confidence in themselves, their skills, and their abilities by creating an environment where they feel safe enough to challenge themselves and grow; allowing the mentee to achieve the goals that they have created.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
My favorite thing about the ranch is that there are endless opportunities! There are so many benefits to connecting with nature and with animals and PVYR allows this experience all in one place. The ranch also allows mentees to engage in woodworking, leatherwork, gardening, crafting, baking, or cooking, which in a different environment they might not have been introduced to. To see mentees, build new skills and create new experiences at the ranch is extremely fulfilling.
MY MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH…
Is learning how to interact with animals that I have not previously interacted with. I think that this allows me to better connect with my mentees because I can empathize with them.
I am a teacher in Eau Claire and have been working with young people for the last 19 years. I enjoy being outdoors – biking, kayaking, running, gardening. When I’m not at school I enjoy spending time with my family – especially my three nieces.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
helping participants see and achieve the fullest potential.
MY FAVORIT
I am a teacher in Eau Claire and have been working with young people for the last 19 years. I enjoy being outdoors – biking, kayaking, running, gardening. When I’m not at school I enjoy spending time with my family – especially my three nieces.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
helping participants see and achieve the fullest potential.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
is the beautiful natural setting.
I'm a middle school teacher in Eau Claire and have two of my own teenagers. I enjoy outdoor activities, gardening, reading, and traveling with my family.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT... Helping mentees learn about themselves and how to navigate the world we live in. My goal is to help kids be their best selves, no matter what's going on in the
I'm a middle school teacher in Eau Claire and have two of my own teenagers. I enjoy outdoor activities, gardening, reading, and traveling with my family.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT... Helping mentees learn about themselves and how to navigate the world we live in. My goal is to help kids be their best selves, no matter what's going on in their life.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
Being able to be in a beautiful place and spend time with super cute and silly animals.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
Seeing participants learn, grow and be proud of themselves.
I started mentoring at PVYR in November of 2022. I’m fairly new to Eau Claire, having just moved here a little over a year ago, and the ranch is just what I was looking for - working with kiddos again! I am a retired PE teacher and swim coach who now keeps busy with my many crafting projects, gardening, anything outdoors, and spending t
I started mentoring at PVYR in November of 2022. I’m fairly new to Eau Claire, having just moved here a little over a year ago, and the ranch is just what I was looking for - working with kiddos again! I am a retired PE teacher and swim coach who now keeps busy with my many crafting projects, gardening, anything outdoors, and spending time at our lake with my pooch and fiance.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT…
Sharing my vast experiences with our youth, while encouraging them to take on new adventures and to be their best self with patience, enthusiasm and kindness. An added bonus is learning from them and sharing their joy.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH…
Are the endless opportunities for everyone to grow as they are immersed in so many different aspects of what life can embrace.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH…
Is wandering, carefree, imagining all the amazing stories that will unfold!
I serve students in the Eau Claire Area School District during the school year. Most of my time at school is spent supporting and advocating for students with disabilities in a small classroom setting. One of my roles in our school includes planning and facilitating our school garden program.
An avid gardener, I believe in the power
I serve students in the Eau Claire Area School District during the school year. Most of my time at school is spent supporting and advocating for students with disabilities in a small classroom setting. One of my roles in our school includes planning and facilitating our school garden program.
An avid gardener, I believe in the power of nature to heal and inspire! Nothing beats the sight of vivid autumn leaves, the melody of the loon's song (or Jelly Bean's Hee-haw), and the taste and smell of a freshly plucked garden tomato!
Speaking of garden tomatoes, I love to cook! I especially enjoy sharing a ranch-cooked meal with our mentees and mentors at the ranch. Cooking for others is my love language.
I am married and a Mom of two small, energetic children. We share a home in Chippewa Falls on the West Hill. When we're not engrossed in a home reno project, we can be found outside in our garden, dribbling a basketball or kicking a soccer ball, or browsing the summer farmer's market in Eau Claire.
I love travel, coffee, spending time with my family and friends, watching America's Funniest Videos with my son, belting Disney songs with my daughter, and chocolate.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
Supporting my mentees. I work alongside my mentees as they create their vision for the future and support their journey along the way. Guided by my own lived experience, I build meaningful connections founded on authenticity and encouragement.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
Our facility is encapsulated by acres of lush woodland. I have yet to explore it all! I enjoy the picturesque landscape, spotted with horses, mini-horses, Tigger (our cat), goats, sheep, chickens, and quail!
I also enjoy challenging others to a game of ping pong or air hockey!
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
I once witnessed Jelly Bean using his hay feeder as a bottom scratcher! I'll never forget it.
I am a school social worker at Northstar Middle School in Eau Claire and have worked in various roles in education for 20+ years. I love spending time outdoors whether it's camping, hiking, running, on a lake, or with my dogs.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
For me, being a mentor is about connection. As humans, we all want to be seen and hea
I am a school social worker at Northstar Middle School in Eau Claire and have worked in various roles in education for 20+ years. I love spending time outdoors whether it's camping, hiking, running, on a lake, or with my dogs.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
For me, being a mentor is about connection. As humans, we all want to be seen and heard. Our modern world is complicated, full of technology, and life can be really difficult. My goal is to be a consistent, trusted person whom my mentees can count on.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
My favorite thing about the ranch is the setting. When I'm at the ranch I feel like I can reconnect with nature and forget about the stress of life.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
My most memorable experience at the ranch was the day a group of kids got to meet Buddy for the first time. He was the cutest, most lovable, wild little puppy!
I have been working with children for the last 30 years. I have four of my own children that I love spending time biking, playing games, and traveling with.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
With my mentees, I enjoy exploring and learning at the ranch and in the community. I enjoy working with my mentee to find new activities, projects, or chor
I have been working with children for the last 30 years. I have four of my own children that I love spending time biking, playing games, and traveling with.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
With my mentees, I enjoy exploring and learning at the ranch and in the community. I enjoy working with my mentee to find new activities, projects, or chores each session to work on together.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
is spending time with the animals and learning new things about the animals at the ranch.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
One of my favorite memories at the ranch is getting to hold and play with the baby goats.
Outside of the ranch I am a Licensed Counselor ( LPC) and recently made the career shift to go into private practice in February of 2024, which also allowed me the flexibility to join the amazing team at PVYR. Outside of my work, my time is mainly spent with my family and friends. I also have a healthy obsession with my two Aussies w
Outside of the ranch I am a Licensed Counselor ( LPC) and recently made the career shift to go into private practice in February of 2024, which also allowed me the flexibility to join the amazing team at PVYR. Outside of my work, my time is mainly spent with my family and friends. I also have a healthy obsession with my two Aussies who help keep me active and entertained during my free time.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
To me being a mentor is about utilizing the the few hours each week to provide a safe and welcoming environment that allows a mentee a break from everyday stress.
As a mentor I hope to provide a positive support for each mentee. My goal with each mentee is to help them to see the ranch as a safe haven for them to decompress from daily challenges they may be facing. Time on the ranch includes interacting with animals, or other mentees, assisting in chores or workshops which are all great ways to help kids build skills and tools to help them face their challenges and achieve their goals.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
Is getting to see the interactions between kids and the animals. It is amazing to see the calming effect the animals have on the kids and the joy they find in interacting with them.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
One of the most memorable experiences was my first meeting of all the animals, but especially the goats. The goats are always so expressive and like to test personal space especially if they think you have treats.
A creative at heart, my happy place is doing anything related to design! I work as a Marketing Manager for a portfolio of eight Eau Claire hospitality- related businesses and freelance as a marketing, branding, and design consultant. I live in Eau Claire with my husband, two cats, and over 50 indoor plants. When we’re not working, yo
A creative at heart, my happy place is doing anything related to design! I work as a Marketing Manager for a portfolio of eight Eau Claire hospitality- related businesses and freelance as a marketing, branding, and design consultant. I live in Eau Claire with my husband, two cats, and over 50 indoor plants. When we’re not working, you can find me with my husband re-wilding our urban lawn, re-claiming antiques, and enjoying living life!
MY ROLE AT THE RANCH...
I’m the designer behind the PVYR website, and I help the PVYR team with website updates and designing marketing materials.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
As a grown-up farm kid, I have many fond memories of what it was like to be a young kiddo in a farm setting with lots of animals and nature to befriend and explore — I think that’s my favorite thing about the Ranch, is that it offers kiddos a chance to add a richness of experiences that can only come from interacting with animals and nature to their own stories.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
My husband and I visited the Ranch for an Open House and were treated to a horse-drawn sleigh ride - it was magical!
I'm thrilled to be mentoring at PVYR! I feel like I've been preparing for this position my whole life, as a teacher, a coach, a mother, and most recently, a grandma!
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
For me, being a mentor is about making connections with participants, connections with the animals, connections between participants, connections wit
I'm thrilled to be mentoring at PVYR! I feel like I've been preparing for this position my whole life, as a teacher, a coach, a mother, and most recently, a grandma!
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
For me, being a mentor is about making connections with participants, connections with the animals, connections between participants, connections with the land, and connections with other staff.
MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE RANCH...
Is the atmosphere of selfless compassion and the generous support system they have built though years of hard work. This incredible setting not only benefits the participants, but also the staff, and the community.
MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AT THE RANCH...
Is the first time I saw a participant truly connect with the animals at the ranch. Watching them let their guard down and just enjoy the animals was amazing!
I am a new youth mentor at the Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch. Outside of the ranch I am a wife, mother, and special education teacher. I love being outside hiking in the woods, biking on the trails throughout Eau Claire, and going fishing.
BEING A MENTOR IS ABOUT...
Being able to see the good in each child and supporting them to become the best version of themselves.
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Pleasant Valley Youth Ranch
E3150 County Road HH, Eleva, WI 54738
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