Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebecca Ray.
Hi Rebecca, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Peyton’s Place at the Seven Rays Ranch was founded by my husband, Chad and I with a vision to create a place where children with autism and other special needs can experience the joy of animal-assisted activities while their families find support, connection, and a sense of belonging.
As parents of five children-Ethan, Katie, Mary, Colt, and Peyton-ranging in age from 5 to 28, we understand the joys and challenges of raising a family. Through our journey, we realized how often families of children with special needs can feel isolated, with much of their time devoted to therapies, appointments, and caregiving. We wanted to create a place where families could step away from the daily grind, experience moments of joy together, and build relationships with others who understand their journey.
Our farm is designed to be a welcoming, judgment-free space where every child is embraced for who they are. Through interactions with our farm animals, children can build confidence, develop social and emotional skills, and simply enjoy being in a peaceful, nurturing environment. Whether it’s brushing a pony, feeding a pig, holding a rabbit, or simply sitting beside a friendly animal, every moment here is meant to uplift and empower.
We hope Peyton’s Place will be a legacy. We wanted this farm to be something that not only benefits children and families today but also stands as a lasting gift for our own children. Our hope is that our kids will continue to carry forward the mission of acceptance, inclusion, and love for generations to come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
At Peyton’s Place, the journey hasn’t always been easy. From the slow, sometimes frustrating construction of the barn to my own struggle with wanting everything finished now, patience has been a lesson I’m still learning. But every challenge has shaped me, because each visitor who walks through our doors is a bit of a puzzle, unique, complex, and beautifully different. I’ve learned to quickly adapt, shift, and respond to whatever each child, or family, or special adult friends need in the moment. These experiences remind me daily that meaningful work is built piece by piece, just like the barn itself.
As you know, we’re big fans of Peyton’s Place at the Seven Rays Ranch. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At Peyton’s Place, we believe every child deserves to feel valued, included, and celebrated for who they are. Our farm is a safe and welcoming space where children on the autism spectrum and with other special needs can interact with animals, build relationships, gain confidence, and improve social skills in a natural, supportive environment. Each visit is one hour, one family at a time so families can really enjoy being with each other in a safe, quiet environment. It is completely free. We as parents of a child with autism understand the pressures of taking our family on outings. Here no one is allowed to apologize.
Everyday I feel blessed to be able to share Peyton’s Place with families that need a place to go and just be themselves. As we were building the barn and moving toward opening in April, I was so worried that we might have made a mistake. Looking past the last 8 months, I can say confidently that we did not make a mistake. We have had over 160 family visits along with over 10 adult groups continuing to come to visit us. There is a need for Peyton’s Place and I am most proud to be able to share it with others!
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see the numbers of diagnosed individuals continuing to rise. Already I am seeing more places opening up to cater to their needs which is amazing! I hope Peyton’s Place will continue to give families an opportunity to come visit and learn more about our animals and enjoy the sensory friendly space we have created.
Pricing:
- everything is free
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sevenraysranch.org
- Instagram: @Peytonsplace_sevenraysranch
- Facebook: Peyton’s Place at the Seven Rays Ranch
