There’s a new addition at Westonwood Ranch — and it came with a generous dose of teamwork, compassion and community spirit.
The Walton Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Walton Class of 2025-26 recently completed its annual class service project in support of Westonwood Ranch, building new goat shelters and climbing perches while also raising $4,125 to help further the nonprofit’s mission.
Located in Freeport, Westonwood Ranch serves teens and young adults with autism and related developmental differences through a unique farm-based learning environment. The nonprofit offers a full-time day program, equine therapy, after-school activities and summer camps designed to help participants build confidence, independence and important life skills.
For members of Leadership Walton, the project became more than just a class assignment. It was an opportunity to step into hands-on service while learning firsthand about the impact Westonwood Ranch is making in the lives of local families. “As a class, we are so thankful for the opportunity to make a meaningful community impact while learning more about the incredible work being done at Westonwood Ranch,” said Courtney Blackerby, Leadership Walton class president. “Their mission, heart and dedication to serving others is truly inspiring, and it has been an honor to support such an amazing nonprofit that is making a lasting difference in our community.”
The class spent time constructing shelters and play structures for the ranch’s goats — an important part of the ranch environment that helps create engaging, interactive experiences for participants. In addition to the physical improvements, the class presented Westonwood Ranch with a donation check totaling $4,125.
Each year, Leadership Walton participants select a local nonprofit to support through a collaborative class project. Past projects have included transforming office spaces for A Bed 4 Me and building a study room for the DeFuniak Springs Public Library.
Since 2000, Leadership Walton has helped develop emerging and established leaders across Northwest Florida, connecting professionals with opportunities to grow their leadership skills while serving our community.
For the Class of 2025-26, the project at Westonwood Ranch reflected exactly what the program hopes to inspire — leadership rooted in service, teamwork and lasting local impact.
For more information, visit www.waltonareachamber.com/leadership-walton.
