Holiday Magic at Bader Ranch During Christmas at the Ranch 

Photo Credits: Kevin Lee Baker 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada (BBBSNN) is extending a heartfelt thank you to the team at Bader Ranch for hosting the inaugural Christmas at the Ranch for our Littles and their families. The day was filled with holiday cheer, smiles, laughs, and a shared commitment to the Stewardship of Potential. Days such as this provide our youth with unique real-world experiences that build confidence and community connection that they may not otherwise experience.  

Growth at the Ranch 

Christmas at the Ranch offered BBBSNN Littles and families a day filled with crafts, professional guided horseback riding, roping, and true holiday spirit. For many Littles, the chance to jump into a saddle and explore the beautiful Bader Ranch provided a powerful opportunity for learning and growth. 

The impact of the day was best seen in one Little in particular who initially struggled to feel comfortable on the back of a horse. With the encouragement of the ranch team they found the courage to not only finish the ride around the ring but to take a short break and try again just minutes later. To clear a hurdle and try something scary a second time speaks volumes to the resilience our youth possess when they have the right support system behind them. 

Photo Credits: Sorrell Pony Photography  

Building Resilience with Bader Ranch 

Persistence was the theme of the day at the roping station, where another Little demonstrated the true spirit of grit. After a few minutes of misses, the Little refused to give up, practicing their technique again and again until they finally landed the rope. This determination sparked a little friendly family competition, with siblings joining in to test their skills. This lighthearted challenge turned into a highlight of the event, illustrating how practice builds the grit and self-assurance that carries over into a Little’s academic and personal life. 

Photo Credits: Sorrell Pony Photography 

Sharing a new Perspective 

Photo Credits: Kevin Lee Baker 

Beyond the excitement of the activities, the interactions with the crew, the Bader Family, Miss Rodeo Nevada, McKinna Jackson, and Alexis Martin the Fallon PRCA Rodeo Queen, provided a whole new perspective on our beautiful community. It’s these diverse, hands-on experiences that align with our mission to ignite the power and promise within every child. 

“We are grateful to Bader Ranch for their hospitality and for standing tall as true Defenders of Potential,” said Derek Beauvais, CEO of BBBSNN. “Mentorship happens just as much in the real world as it does in a classroom. When partners like Bader Ranch open their doors, they aren’t just hosting a fun activity, they are investing in the future of our youth and creating memories that’ll last a lifetime.” 

As BBBSNN launches National Mentoring Month in January 2026, events like Christmas at the Ranch serve as a reminder of the vital role community partners play. By stewarding their resources to support local families, Bader Ranch has helped ensure that Northern Nevada’s youth feel seen, supported, and celebrated this holiday season. 

For more information on how to become a community partner or a mentor, please reach out.