10/22/2026
Round Up Stories - Arms That Are Always Waiting
Every Christmas reminds us of something we all long for: a place to belong and people who are always there when we need them.
For 13-year-old Elaina, that feeling comes every time she sees her dad. No matter how much she's grown, she still runs straight into his arms when he visits. “Every time I see him, I jump into his arms,” she said with a laugh. “He has to take a step back because I'm getting bigger.”
That simple moment captures something powerful. Although Elaina lives at Cal Farley's Boys Ranch, the bond she shares with her father remains one of the strongest forces in her life. His support reminds her that she is loved, valued and never alone.
Family has played an important role throughout her journey. When Elaina arrived at Boys Ranch two years ago, her older brother, Harley, was already there. Having someone she trusted made a new environment feel a little less intimidating and a lot more like home.
Like many families, theirs faced challenges that required support and opportunity. Thanks to the caring community behind Boys Ranch, Elaina has been able to explore opportunities she never imagined. She's competed in rodeo, participated in cross country, basketball, track and cheer, and discovered new confidence through each experience.
But if you ask her what matters most, the answer isn't sports or activities.
It's family.
There is another family connection that remains especially close to her heart. Though her mother has passed away, Elaina feels connected to her every time she rides a horse.
“I got it from my mom,” she said of her love for horses.
What began as a passion has become a way of honoring her mother's memory, carrying a piece of her with every ride.
Along the way, Elaina has also found friendship, community and faith. She's built meaningful relationships with friends who have walked alongside her through challenges, and she says her relationship with God has grown significantly since coming to Boys Ranch.
As Christmas approaches, Elaina is especially grateful for the people who have helped make these opportunities possible.
“I'm just really grateful that I get to do what I love ... I'm just really grateful that they are doing that and donating it to help the kids.”
Her story is a beautiful reminder that family comes in many forms. It's a father who keeps showing up. It's a brother who makes a hard transition easier. It's friends who walk beside you through life's challenges. And it's a community of caring supporters who help young people discover hope, opportunity and a brighter future.
This Christmas season, we're reminded that the greatest gifts aren't found under the tree. They're found in the people who love us, support us and help us flourish.
❤️ Want more stories of hope, family and life-changing impact? Subscribe to the Boys Ranch Roundup and stay connected to the young people, families and supporters who make this mission possible.
