SPRING  LAKE  RANCH
A small therapeutic work community in the Green Mountains of Vermont

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Work Program

The core of day-to-day life is the work program. Many who come to Spring Lake Ranch have lost both the spirit and the stamina needed to work. Often residents have difficulties with issues of authority and initiative. Working together provides the opportunity to regain strength and enthusiasm for work, and for coping with the kinds of problems found in every work situation. When working together on a common task, it is much easier to make friends and focus on what one can do, rather than what one can't. What we do yields tangible results as well as a sense of purpose and ownership.

"Participation in the work program was a big contributor to my recovery. The program is run by people who are determined to do the job in an organized and productive manner. When a resident joins the work detail, he finds help and friends immediately, and the healing process begins." -Resident

The work program occupies five hours a day, five days each week. The work we do reflects the on-going needs of the community. Depending on the season haying, wood cutting, maple sugaring, cider pressing or ice cutting is in progress. Gardening goes on all summer and there are animals to care for year round. Cooking, general maintenance, and sewing projects are on-going, as are construction and the renovation of buildings. As skills and interests develop, residents often choose to specialize in a particular work project and to lead their own crews.

The power of this work centers on its clear value. Wood that is harvested heats the Main House all winter. The gardens produce much of our food. The syrup is not only served on our pancakes, but also sold to raise scholarship funds. There is reason to take pride in this work and to realize its rewards.