Governor Greg Gianforte visited the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch (YBGR) in Billings on Wednesday, expressing gratitude to staff for their work in supporting youth facing mental health challenges.
“From pandemic-related isolation to the pressures of social media, young people across the state and country are facing a mental health crisis,” Gov. Gianforte stated. “It can be tough for children and young people to grow up in a happy and healthy environment these days. To support stronger families, it’s critical we come alongside partners committed to providing compassionate care to Montana youth.”
YBGR, founded in 1957, serves over 180 young Montanans through residential and day programs aimed at addressing social, emotional, and behavioral struggles. The organization provides treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, substance use, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
During his campus tour, the governor learned about various treatment options available at YBGR, including equine and art therapy, as well as practical skills like ranch operations and pheasant raising. Residents and day students work alongside psychiatrists, nurses, therapists, and educators as they navigate their personal challenges.
The Yellowstone Academy, located on campus, offers educational programs for youth in residential care and those needing additional support from surrounding school districts. In addition to residential services, YBGR provides community-based programs throughout Billings and across Montana, including school-based and family preservation services, having served over 10,000 young Montanans.
The visit also included testimonials from two young adults who graduated from YBGR and now work as full-time employees. Jake M., a former resident, shared his story of overcoming challenges during a difficult time in his life. “It was a long two years, and I learned a lot. One thing that stuck with me was learning how to genuinely care for another person,” he said.
Expanding behavioral health care services is a top priority for Gov. Gianforte. Last spring, he made a historic $300 million investment to enhance mental health care delivery in Montana, which included funding for repairs at the Montana State Hospital and expansions of community-based services.
During the visit, the governor announced that YBGR would receive $2.3 million from this investment to increase residential bed capacity. CEO Mike Chavers explained that the funds will be used to repair, upgrade, and expand facilities on the Billings campus to enhance emergency shelter capacity.
Gov. Gianforte emphasized the importance of continued support for mental health services, underscoring the state’s commitment to the well-being of its youth.
By: DNU staff