There is a tremendous need in our world today to rescue children caught in cycles of hopelessness. Deep within, these children desperately desire a chance to succeed in life. It was for these children that the vision of Watersprings Ranch was born in the hearts of David and Carla Whatley. Located in Texarkana, Arkansas, Watersprings Ranch is a Christian based, long-term residential home for children. The Ranch is a tax-exempt, non-profit organization that is privately funded. Watersprings Ranch is licensed by the State of Arkansas and currently consists of several group homes. The group homes are for abused, neglected or abandoned children, or children who have behavioral problems and who are 12 years of age or younger at the time of acceptance. The dream of establishing a loving and secure home for children in distress was conceived in 1984, forging the way for the opening of the first Watersprings Ranch home in September, 1989. Today, multiple group homes are in existence and are staffed with quality Christian couples as houseparents who give each child consistent love, discipline and direction. Eight children are placed in each group home and are assigned various chores and tasks designed to teach responsibility and build self-esteem.
