In loving memory of
Carlene Armstrong

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  READ ABOUT THE RANCH...

  A New Morning - Rusty's Morningstar Ranch offers new start for autistic adults
A Look Inside Rusty's Morningstar Ranch

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  Arizona's only rural home for autistic men and one of only about 15 in the United States - gives its residents what they need most: work and peace.

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  Rusty's Morningstar Ranch offers new start for autistic adults

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  Rusty's Ranch: A total life experience

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Programs

Entrance Requirements

We accept those over 18 who have a primary diagnosis of autism, who are able to care for their own toileting needs, and who are not their own guardians.

In fairness, it must be stated that there is a waiting list.

Although presently all of our Ranchers are male, we certainly have no philosophical bias against women. So far, we have not had enough female applicants to open a house.

Programs

Our days are filled with a balanced mix of work, recreation, learning and spiritual fulfillment. We garden, care for animals, maintain the property, ride, swim, volunteer in the community, and have many parties and celebrations. We look at life as a learning experience and use every opportunity to enhance language and practical living skills. Volunteers come once a week and do "church" for us and we pray at meals and bedtime.

Our goal is to integrate all of these things into a unifying whole, so that life is truly as rich and fulfilling as possible within our Ranch family. Once this is accomplished, we can (and do) reach out and become a part of our larger community. The local community is small and supportive and the Ranchers have many opportunities for social integration.

Occasionally, if one is so inclined, a job off the ranch may be held. This is not the norm, however, as most of the real work is on the ranch itself.