Celebrating 50 Years of Transforming Lives
Through Christ-centered care, Big Oak Ranch has been a sanctuary of hope for children in need since 1974.
Hope Changes Everything
Big Oak Ranch provides children with more than a home. It’s a foundation where trust is rebuilt, hope is restored and futures are reimagined. By addressing each child’s unique needs, we empower them to find stability, purpose and belonging.
– Brodie Croyle, CEO
Guided by Leadership, Driven by Purpose
Big Oak Ranch is strengthened by a dedicated Board of Directors who share our vision of transforming lives. Their guidance ensures our mission remains impactful and focused on providing hope to the children and families we serve.
Craig Beatty, Chairman
President of CS Beatty Construction
Greg Belcher
President of Royal Automotive, Inc.
Jerry Stewart
Executive Vice President of Southern Co. / Alabama Power (retired)
Bill Ratliff
Member of Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC
Walter Edge
President of Edge Biologicals, Inc.
Nick Wright
President of Special Events Management
Jonathan Belcher
President & Cofounder of Signature Homes
Stephanie Smith
President & CEO of the Alabama Policy Institute
By the numbers
At Big Oak Ranch, every number tells a story of hope.
Here’s a glimpse of the impact we made together in 2024.
219 children found a home at Big Oak Ranch
657 meals provided daily for our children
13 children worked to purchase a vehicle
59 children learned to search for and maintain a job
190 students attended Westbrook Christian School
Our Children Are Our Why
Our programs at Big Oak Ranch are united by a single mission: to create a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children. Through the Boys and Girls Ranches, Big Oak Cattle, Westbrook Christian School, Ascend and Planting Oaks, we are able to meet both immediate and long-term needs — providing the foundation for a bright today and a strong future.
BIG OAK RANCH
is our why
BIG OAK CATTLE
Feeds our why
WESTBROOK CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Educates Our Why
ASCEND
Continues Our Why
Planting Oaks
Furthers Our Why
Faithful Stewardship
At Big Oak Ranch, every donation creates meaningful change. We’re proud to operate 100% debt-free, ensuring nearly 83 cents of every dollar directly supports programs for our children. Our funding comes exclusively from generous individuals, corporations and organizations.
– — John & Tee Croyle, Founders