Longtime Ben Richey Boys Ranch leaders celebrated at retirement event

A retirement reception honoring Mike and Pam Bean was held Monday, Jan. 5, at The Feed Store, celebrating more than 20 years of dedication to the Ben Richey Boys Ranch and Family Program.

Several leaders from the Ben Richey organization attended and spoke, including CEO Kerry Fortune, recognizing the couple’s longtime commitment to children and families served through the ministry.

The Beans began their work with Ben Richey Boys Ranch in May 2002 as houseparents on the Abilene campus. Later that year, they were asked to help open the new Albany campus. Construction began in 2003, and during that time the Beans commuted boys between Abilene and Albany so they could attend school locally. The Albany campus officially opened in July 2004 with the opening of the Linebery House, which welcomed eight boys.

As the program grew, the Braun and Relief houses were added in 2012, expanding the Ranch’s ability to serve more youth. Over the years, approximately 80 boys have come through the Albany campus under the Beans’ leadership, guidance and care.

The Beans spent 11 years as houseparents and another 12 years in administration. Mike served as Albany Campus Director and was a Licensed Childcare Administrator through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Pam served as Administrative Assistant.

Among their most meaningful memories during those years were traveling to China to adopt their daughter, Jade, as well as traveling to Great Lakes, Illinois, to watch former resident Thomas graduate from Navy boot camp, and to San Diego to see another former resident, Marquis, graduate from Marine Corps boot camp.

Mike and Pam plan to remain in Albany, where they operate Top Hand RV Park. They said they look forward to continuing their work locally, traveling on their motorcycle and enjoying the next chapter of life.