If you’ve ever driven through Wolfe County, Kentucky, you might have passed by a place that’s quietly making a big difference—Dessie Scott Children’s Home. Located in Pine Ridge, just a short drive from Stanton, KY, and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, this residential treatment facility is more than just a campus. It’s a home where young lives are nurtured and guided toward brighter futures.
What Makes Dessie Scott Special?
Dessie Scott Children’s Home (DSCH) focuses on helping boys aged 12 to 17 who are navigating developmental disabilities or intellectual challenges. These young residents often arrive after facing multiple placements and treatment options that didn’t quite fit their needs. At Dessie Scott, they find something different—a personalized approach to care that prioritizes trust, growth, and life skills.
The campus is designed with intention. Every resident has their own room, providing a sense of privacy and ownership. The cottages—Marilee and Winchip—are divided into smaller units like East, West, North, and South cottages. Each one is equipped with essentials such as kitchens, dining areas, living spaces, and laundry rooms. This setup creates a cozy environment that feels more like a home than an institution.
A Day in the Life at Dessie Scott
Life at Dessie Scott isn’t just about addressing challenges; it’s about building skills for the future. The therapeutic programs include individual and group counseling, peer relationship-building exercises, trust-building activities, and life skills training. If family involvement is possible, family sessions are also part of the mix.
The boys attend an on-campus public school staffed by teachers from the Wolfe County School System. This isn’t your average classroom—it’s tailored to help students catch up on educational delays or recover credits they may have missed in previous schools. The goal? To set them up for success academically while addressing their unique learning needs.
For those seeking spiritual guidance or quiet reflection, there’s even an on-campus chapel. Attendance is entirely optional, ensuring that residents feel respected in their personal choices.
A Caring Community
The staff at Dessie Scott are more than just employees—they’re mentors and role models who are committed to making a difference. While some reviews from former employees highlight challenges in the workplace, others praise the supportive environment and strong network among staff. It’s clear that working with these young men is as rewarding as it is demanding.
The home operates under the belief that every child deserves a chance to thrive. Many of these boys come from difficult circumstances, but here they find stability and care tailored to their needs.
Why Pine Ridge?
Pine Ridge might seem like an out-of-the-way location for such an impactful program, but its setting plays a crucial role. The surrounding area offers natural serenity that can be therapeutic in itself. Being close to landmarks like Natural Bridge State Resort Park and Red River Gorge provides opportunities for outdoor activities that complement the structured programs on campus.
The location also allows for a sense of community without the distractions of urban life—a perfect balance for fostering growth and healing.
How You Can Support Dessie Scott
Whether you’re a local looking to make a difference or someone from afar who wants to contribute, there are plenty of ways to support Dessie Scott Children’s Home. From volunteering your time to donating resources or simply spreading the word about their work, every little bit helps.
Dessie Scott isn’t just a facility—it’s a lifeline for boys who need guidance, care, and hope for the future. By supporting this home in Pine Ridge, you’re not just helping individuals—you’re strengthening an entire community.
Sources: buckhorn.org, Buckhorn Children and Family Services Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Buckhorn Children and Family Services Facebook Page
