Today we’d like to introduce you to Jody Sandwick.
Hi Jody, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Circle Ranch Inc was a vision given to Jody Sandwick to help with the desperate need for alternative housing for the foster children within a 13 county rural area in Georgia. There were 1200 foster children in this area at the time and 50% of the foster homes had been lost., We were given 501 c3 status is 2015
Over the years working within the community there has been many challenges of which we have over come and have continued to move forward. We have purchased a 60 acea parcel of farm land, have completed all the land development in preparing for our first home and are very blessed to be debt free. We hope to build our first home this year as we are in the final phase of fundraising for the building.
The Circle Ranch journey has been challenging and awesome at the same time!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
1. When we applied for a zoning change our city commissioners wanted nothing to do with a facility housing foster
children. After four hours of intense questioning and educating them they unanimously voted for zoning change, site plan and use of city water.
2. Looking for the right property over a four year period. We had to find a large piece of property and also have excess to an 8 inch water required for in house sprinkling. This was almost impossible in our community as everything is public well or individual well. One day a supporter spotted a sign for sale by owner. This property was next to a pipe fitting manufacturer who had a 8 inch water line ! We negotiated with the owner and paid off balance owed with in a year and half.
3. We have applied for grants and tuned down. They tell we will qualify when you have your first home and are up and running.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a retired representative from Ing Brokerage. I had my own business as a branch office and serviced many clients when I resided in Michigan
I am most proud of out journey in overcoming obstacles and continuing to move forward.
I have determination to get this facility build and I have never given up. I do not dwell on negativity!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Dr Stanley’s book-Success God”s Way
Zack Clark’s Development and Leadership coaching
Appointment in Jerusalem- Derek and Lydia Prince
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.circleranchinc.org/
- Instagram: Circle Ranch
- Facebook: Circle Ranch non-profit in Greensboro, Georgia
