06/17/2025
Rancho Cielo: Heaven’s Ranch
Rancho Cielo was established to provide underserved youth in Monterey County with a comprehensive alternative high school education—equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.
Founded by retired Judge John M. Phillips, the organization was born from a powerful vision: to break the cycle of incarceration that too many young people in the community face. Rather than seeing them return to his courtroom, Judge Phillips wanted to see them walk across a graduation stage. “When you’re sitting on the bench, there’s nothing you can do. You can’t reach out two years before their incarceration—you’ve got to reach them before they pull the trigger,” he explained.
He recognized that meaningful work was often the turning point for these young people, giving them a sense of purpose and hope for the future. That realization led him to bring together committed community members to invest in education and workforce development for at-risk youth.
Rancho Cielo is located on 100 acres and is a restored piece of history in the heart of the Salinas Valley. Removed from the urban neighborhoods that have fostered self-destructive lifestyles, the Ranch provides a safe place to run, hang out, and breathe fresh air. It also enables outdoor science education and enrichment opportunities in ways not available on most campuses.
Since its founding, Rancho Cielo has helped hundreds of students earn their high school diplomas, launch meaningful careers, and become engaged, contributing members of society. With access to education, job training, caring mentors, and social services, these young individuals are given a real chance to thrive.
It was our absolute honor to produce a series of videos with Rancho Cielo. The board members, staff, students, and everyone involved carry a passion to make a difference in these kids' lives—we are forever moved.
