FACILITY TOUR

Rancho Valmora is located on the front-range of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico and is a little over one hour from Santa Fe.

The property includes approximately 1,000 acres of ponderosa, pinyon pine, and river habitat adjoining the Mora River and Wolf Creek, and short-grass prairie that provides a beautiful setting and is ideal for horseback riding, hiking and other outdoor activities.

Because many of our students are typically from a more urban setting, we find this remote, rugged and beautiful setting offers a physical and mental break to our students, which facilitates valuable opportunities to take on new challenges, build self-esteem and develop new skills.

While there is a definite feeling of remoteness, the property is also conveniently located to Las Vegas, New Mexico, which contains New Mexico Highlands University, our regional hospital and provides opportunities for additional student activities.

Rancho Valmora has a unique history that is recognized by its designation on the National Historic Register. The property was founded in 1905 as a tuberculosis treatment center (sanitorium). The property was chosen because of its mild, sunny climate, which was thought to be essential in the treatment of tuberculosis, and because of the existence of a very productive artesian spring, which currently produces approximately 25,000 gallons per day and still provides the water needs for our students and facility.

Many of the buildings date to this historic period, including our Administration building, Dining Hall, Recreation Hall, Ice Cream Parlor and Administrative House.

In August, 2004, Rancho Valmora completed construction of a new school building and gymnasium. This building is approximately 37,000 square feet and includes the following features:

• 7 classrooms with computer/internet access
• Science classroom and laboratory
• Art studio
• Library with computer lab and internet access
• Drama/performance stage
• Full-size indoor basketball court
• Weight room and aerobics machines/area
• Horticulture area and greenhouse
• Display area for art projects

Rancho Valmora currently has 9 Dormitories. As with every aspect of our facility, the Dormitories are designed to function as part of our Positive Peer Culture model. Each Dormitory separately houses one group of nine students. This group is the focal point for treatment through implementation of Positive Peer Culture.

Separate Dormitories for each group facilitate a separate identity for each group and provides a framework for creating group cohesiveness. Each Dormitory also has a separate sleeping space for two staff members. Dormitories are designed from the ground up to provide an appropriate balance of privacy and the ability for supervision and safety. All Dormitories include a fire-place, which helps to create a home-like feel for our students.

The Little Dipper, our ice cream parlor, includes antique soda fountains and is designed to provide an opportunity for social interactions. The Little Dipper is adjacent to our Recreational Hall, which has table games, a dance floor and a big-screen TV.