How We Got Here
In 1997, shortly after adopting their son, Alex, Steve and Shelley Smaby purchased this 300 acre Ranch for a vacation home. Alex was diagnosed with autism at age two and the Ranch has always been a place of peace and contentment for him and his parents.
As Alex grew older it became clear that he would not be able to live independently. After exploring a range of options for Alex, his parents realized that there was no better place for him than the Ranch.
Our Mission and Vision
That seed grew into plans for a place where other individuals with a wide range of disabilities could live productive, meaningful lives in this beautiful setting.
Our mission is to provide supported living, education and therapeutic services in a nature-based setting for our extended community family.
Our vision is that everyone can benefit from the healing power of nature, particularly those with significant life challenges.
Philosophy
Everyone, regardless of their disability or background, needs a purpose in their life. Our goal is to help each person discover their strengths and talents and help them create a life that is rewarding and fulfilling. Nature is a wonderful teacher and healer, and we endeavor to help all participants increase their quality of life, whether they are a weekend visitor, a life-long resident, or part of the staff that supports our vision.
Accreditation
In 2017 we were honored to receive accreditation from CARF International. CARF is an independent, nonprofit organization focused on advancing the quality of services at organizations such as CLR. Receiving this three-year accreditation the first time we applied is a testament to the high standards that we set and meet for ourselves. We were re-accredited in 2020 and just received word that our accreditation was extended for another three years starting June 2023. While this is a difficult, time-consuming process, it is just one more indication of the pride we take in providing exception services for our clients.
Facilities
Collins Lake Ranch is nestled in the mountains, just off of Highway 518 in Mora County, NM.
Surrounded by forest, this tranquil valley has all the elements and resources of a traditional ranch complex. The 12-acre lake dominates the valley floor, with a beach area for launching boats and room for anglers to cast a line. A little way up the hill on the south side of the lake are the residences, the barn, the community activity center, and our regenerative farming center. Not far from here is our campground area and educational center.
We have utilized seasonal yurts for much of our campground infrastructure but are in the process of designing a year-round building for classes, trainings and conferences. As you drive up from the main gate, you will also pass our equine center and the site of our new wellness center where we will be offering a wide range of therapeutic services.
