Welcome to Jamies Ranch a special needs recreation and fun ranch for all ages!
Providing opportunity for ranch fun and recreation for all kids, including special needs, age toddler to adult.
Being able to provide a place for special needs kids to have fun is the vision for Jamie’s Ranch. We strive for all ages and abilities to enjoy a wide variety of inclusive activities. Everything we do is interactive and encourages as much individual participation as possible.
Day recreation for families, groups, and individuals!
Originally from South Dakota, Roger and Sheri Mitzel moved to Texas in 1985. Roger joined the San Antonio Fire Dept. in 1987 and has been in the department 32 years; 27 of those in EMS. He will be retiring in early 2020.
In 2000 they moved out to the country with their two daughters, one of whom was special needs. That was Jamie. Their first property was 10 acres of rented land between San Antonio and Lytle. The first animals were requisite dogs and cats. Soon to be followed by a few ducks, rabbits and a couple of donkeys. Followed by a few horses and it just never stopped. His lovely wife has never seen an animal that she didn’t want and consequently asks the “darling husband” for another extension of the feed bill.
The first groups to visit were Jamie’s classes. Through them, it became obvious the need/craving that these kids have for different experiences. Also, the need/relief that came to siblings, parents, and teachers.
In 2005, the Mitzel family moved onto 49 acres in McCoy, “mainly to accommodate the darn animals.” Jamie, loved it when her classmates would come out, and she could share her “country place” …hence the name. Although Jamie no longer lives on the ranch since her passing in 2009 of Batten Disease. Their other daughter Kasey and her husband, Jay, and their two kids, Shyanne and Kolton, have a home on the property now. Sheri’s dad also lives with the Mitzels. The 49-acre farm is truly a family affair, and everyone helps with the animals, property, and Jamie’s Ranch.
While the idea to start reaching out to more groups started many years ago, the decision to become a nonprofit became final in 2015. That is when Jamie’s Ranch became a 501 (c) (3).
Jamie’s Ranch is a beautiful property, and the Mitzel’s truly love having people/kids out to provide a getaway, even for just a few hours. Please visit…enjoy…relax. Visit their website blog, but most of all help put their name out there to any group/family you feel might be interested.
