Ghost Ranch is a 21,000-acre education and retreat center located in New Mexico, owned by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and managed by The National Ghost Ranch Foundation, Inc. since 2018. With a rich history spanning millions of years, the ranch has been home to dinosaurs, ancient human settlements, and more recently, a Spanish land grant, various colonizations, and a dude ranch. It gained fame as the longtime residence and artistic inspiration for Georgia O’Keeffe. In 1955, philanthropists Phoebe and Arthur Pack generously donated the ranch to the Presbyterian Church.
Today, Ghost Ranch serves as a sanctuary for exploration, rejuvenation, and personal growth. It offers a diverse range of activities including archaeological exploration, outdoor adventures like hiking and horseback riding, and opportunities for artistic expression. The ranch welcomes visitors from around the world, fostering a community that values sustainability, inclusivity, equity, creativity, and spirituality. Through its programs and facilities, Ghost Ranch aims to nurture the human spirit, encourage discovery of the sacred, and promote care for creation. It stands as a unique blend of natural beauty, scientific significance, cultural heritage, and spiritual retreat, inviting individuals to engage in transformative experiences amidst its stunning landscape.
Ghost Ranch offers a diverse range of volunteer opportunities, allowing individuals to contribute their skills and passions to the vibrant community. Volunteers can serve for periods ranging from one week to three months, depending on their availability and the ranch’s needs. The program provides a unique chance to immerse oneself in the spectacular landscape while supporting various aspects of the ranch’s operations.
Volunteer Opportunities, Duties, and Benefits:
– Roles:
– Greeters at Welcome Center or Museums
– Housekeeping tasks (e.g., folding sheets)
– Dining Hall assistance (e.g., cleaning tables)
– Maintenance and repair projects
– Gardening and landscaping work
– Duties and Responsibilities:
– 32 hours of service per week
– Two days off per week (not necessarily weekends)
– Flexible schedules for local volunteers (daily, weekly, or monthly)
– Benefits:
– Housing and meals provided in exchange for service
– Opportunity to develop new skills
– Immersion in Ghost Ranch’s unique environment and community
– Personal growth through diverse experiences
– Length of Stay:
– One week to three months for regular volunteers
– Day or two options for local volunteers during specific events
– Logistics:
– Applications for 2024 are closed
– 2025 applications open on October 1, 2024
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