THE STAFF

Scott Johnson — CO-Founder

I’m Scott and I’m a cattle rancher from Tulare County. I enjoy pack trips to the high Sierras, mules, diesel trucks, and a good steak. I always wanted to be a pirate growing up, but I get sea sick. So I decided to be a cowboy instead. If I were to be an animal, I would be a mule because they are smart, tough, and strong. My hero is the cartoon character “Droopy” the dog because he is always there for every situation.

Dee-Dee Johnson — C0-Founder

My name is Dee Dee Johnson and I have a financial background in bookkeeping and banking. I enjoy being a part of leadership, bringing with me the experience of over eight years in a board position with my local church. I enjoy hospitality, photography, DIY projects, organizing, missions, and of course my furry four legged friends. I always wanted to be a writer growing up. If I were an animal I would be an eagle.

Aaron Ernst — Director

Hi my name is Aaron and I have the amazing job as the director here at Crown Valley. My passions are too long to list, but here are a few: God, family, wood working, backpacking and dirt bike riding. I’ve been involved with youth since being a youth. Nothing is more rewarding then seeing a young person understand God, commit to Christ, and serve His kingdom. What is most amazing about this process is how God does it in so many amazing ways. I’m never bored in exploring God with a young person.

When I was growing up I always wanted to be a marine biologist, that was before I saw the movie JAWS. If I could be any animal it would be a wolf. They are survivors and travel in packs. My super hero is Batman! He is the real deal. No super powers, just smart and wealthy.

Janet Gruchacz —Administrative Assistant & Admissions Coordinator

I am a wife, mom to three boys, and grandma to an adorable boy and two
sweet little girls. I was a pastor’s wife for 20 years (still his wife,
he’s in a new position now). I am now the Administrative Assistant and
Admissions Coordinator for CVYR. I fell in love with CVYR when I came
out to learn about volunteer opportunities. The ranch offers the hope of
the gospel to children who need healing and love, and it does it in a
unique and fun way. How could I not want to be part of this ministry?

Lacey Patrick — Media Specialist

I’m Lacey and have been blessed with the opportunity to work with CVYR since 2016. I was still a teenager when I walked onto the property 7 years ago, but ever since then God has continued to bring me back here. After leaving for college in 2019, I quickly became a reporter. However, once again in 2022, God led me right back to the ranch. My passions involve writing, creating and reading. Most of all, I love impacting young lives, knowing that I also needed a mentor to guide me in the right direction when I was young.

Repolgle Family — Caretakers

On site caretakers – Gil, Wendy, Jonathan, David, and Amanda Replogle.

Our daughter was involved in this ministry while we were remodeling our house. We needed to move out for what we thought would be a couple of months to complete the house project. At that very same time the rental became available at the ranch. God provided us a place to stay during the remainder of our remodel. Little did we know that God would change our desires and call us to remain as caretakers. We ended up selling our home of 21 years and we are cherishing this season of life with our three adult children, enjoying this ministry and ranch life together as a family. We are privileged to be a part of what God is doing here at Crown Valley Youth Ranch. (Proverbs 16:9)