Compassion in Action (The CIA) | Fall 2025
October 16th - November 20th​
Why Attend The CIA?
More than a class. More than a camp. This is a hands-on, boots-on, full-tilt farm experience for middle schoolers who want to get involved and make an impact.
Real Skills. Real Animals. Real Impact.
If you’re looking for a program where middle school aged kids actually do something—this is it. From day one, students are out in the fields and barns, learning how to care for real farm animals, clean stalls, collect eggs, and mix feed. They’ll haul hay, scrub water buckets, and help with enrichment projects that keep our rescued animals engaged and thriving. This is hands-on, boots-on-the-ground experience that teaches work ethic, responsibility, and how to genuinely care for animals in need. No fluff. All action.
Learn by Doing
This isn’t about sitting in a classroom. It’s about using your hands, your brain, and your heart to learn through experience. Whether students are creating compost systems, managing a weekly animal care budget, or helping build tools for sustainable farming, every session challenges them to think critically and solve real problems. They’ll gain confidence, sharpen their instincts, and learn how a working rescue ranch runs from the ground up. It’s the kind of learning that sticks—because they’re living it.
Time with the Animals
Every week, students step into the daily life of a working rescue ranch—spending time with pigs, goats, chickens, and more. They’ll learn how to read animal behavior, prepare specialized diets, and provide enrichment that helps our rescues heal and thrive. Whether it’s brushing a donkey, planning care routines, or getting to know the unique personalities of the animals, this is hands-on animal care that makes a real difference. They won’t just meet the animals—they’ll know them.
Real Skills for Future Changemakers
Forget lectures—this is real life. Students in Compassion in Action leave with a toolbox of practical, future-ready skills that go far beyond the ranch. They’ll build confidence through teamwork, planning, problem-solving, and leadership. They'll learn how to advocate for what matters, speak up with purpose, and manage projects that have real-world outcomes. Whether they want to be a vet, a farmer, an activist, or just someone who makes a difference—this program sets them up to lead with grit, heart, and know-how.
​
Ready to join the adventure? Apply now to enroll your child in Compassion in Action (CIA) at Winding Branch Ranch and discover the joys of hands-on learning, compassion, and connection in a one-of-a-kind setting. We can't wait to welcome you to our growing community of explorers and animal enthusiasts!
Dates:
-
Thursdays, October 16th - November 20th
-
October 16th
-
October 23rd
-
October 30th
-
November 6th
-
November 13th
-
November 20th
Session Times:
-
5:30PM - 7:00PM
Age of Participants:
-
10 to 14 (Middle School)
Pricing:
-
The cost for the full 6-week program, including all sessions, is $200 per CIA Rancher. All proceeds from the program are considered donations and contribute directly to supporting our farm animal rescues, ensuring that each child's experience in The CIA makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our beloved animals. Enroll your child today and join us in our mission of compassion and education at Winding Branch Ranch.
-
Please call to inquire about sibling discount or returning student discounts.