A New Kind of Philanthropy

Our story began in 2008 as Kathryn Nordberg, CEO and founder of Erik's Ranch & Retreats, searched for options that would provide her son, Erik, a moderately functioning young adult on the autism spectrum, the kind of life he deserves – active and full of possibility, independence and purpose. She quickly found that there were few good options for moderate - to high-functioning young adults with autism, including those with Asperger’s syndrome. Despite years of hard work, even those high-functioning individuals often look for a community that offer some level of structure and support in their lives – with living accommodations, relationship building, social opportunities, meaningful work and recreation. So, in the past few years, Kathryn and a team of psychologists, attorneys, architects and marketing and business professionals have developed an innovative model for young adults with autism: Erik's Ranch & Retreats, with locations in Edina, Minnesota, a suburb of Minneapolis, and in Montana's Paradise Valley, not far from Bozeman.

Kathryn has the background – and the vision – necessary for this important living, working and social environment for young adults with autism. She has held executive positions with organizations in technology, packaged goods and health care, and has leadership experience in organizational planning, management and marketing. For the past decade, she has helped run the largest privately held assisted living facility in Minnesota, seeing firsthand, how residents benefit from a consistent caring and dedicated staff. To that end, she streamlined the documentation process and improved efficiencies to allow nursing staff more time for personalized care. Kathryn's goal for a better life for those with autism is the foundation behind Erik's Ranch & Retreats.

Your gift will sustain meaningful employment and social opportunities for our deserving young adults.

Because of your generosity, you are providing opportunities they have previously never experienced before Erik’s Ranch & Retreats. Opportunities the rest of us often take for granted; the chance for dignity, purpose, hope, and more.