Dear Friends of Ironwood Springs,

As I step into the role of Executive Director, my heart is overflowing with excitement, gratitude, and a profound sense of responsibility. Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch has a long-standing legacy of transforming lives through faith, healing, and community, and I am honored to carry that mission forward.

Looking Ahead with Hope

The future of Ironwood Springs is bright. From our Operation Welcome Home military programs that bring healing to veterans and individuals facing life’s challenges, to our retreats that deepen faith and strengthen families that care for a loved one with special needs, I see endless opportunities to grow and serve even more people. Our theme for 2025, Living Water, taken from John 7:38—“Whoever believes in Me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them”—is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of Christ’s presence in our lives.

This year, we are embracing the reality that just as physical water sustains and nourishes, the Living Water of Christ sustains our hearts and souls. At Ironwood Springs, we strive to provide an environment where the Living Water flows freely, bringing healing, renewal, and hope to all who walk through our gates.

Whether it’s creating new programs, enhancing our facilities, or deepening partnerships, my commitment is to steward this ministry with integrity and purpose. I believe God has great plans for Ironwood Springs, and I can’t wait to see them unfold together. As we deepen our mission and broaden our impact, we will continue to offer a place where the Living Water of Jesus flows—nourishing lives and drawing all closer to Him.

Exciting New Partnership Opportunity: Faith Without Barriers

In the spirit of growth and reaching more individuals, I’m excited to announce that next month, we will be rolling out our Faith Without Barriers Church Partnership Program. This new initiative is designed to strengthen and expand our mission by creating meaningful partnerships with local churches and faith-based organizations. Through this program, churches can partner with us to provide their congregations with access to our transformative programs, retreats, and services.

The Faith Without Barriers program has several key benefits:

• Inclusive Access: Churches can offer their members a chance to experience our programs, ensuring that all people, regardless of ability or background, have access to life-changing experiences.
• Faith Enrichment: Our Ranch provides an opportunity for church groups to deepen their faith through intentional retreats, workshops, and activities that foster spiritual growth and community.
• Shared Mission: As partners, churches will be joining us in our mission to provide healing, hope, and renewal through Christ. This partnership is about creating a larger community that works together to uplift and support one another in faith.
• Special Programs for Special Needs: We will continue to focus on creating inclusive spaces for families and individuals with special needs, ensuring that no one is left behind in experiencing the grace and love of God.
• This program reflects our ongoing commitment to breaking down barriers—physical, emotional, and spiritual—and making sure everyone has access to the life-giving water that Christ offers.

Gratitude for an Amazing Community

None of this would be possible without YOU—our dedicated supporters, donors, volunteers, and staff. Your prayers, financial support, and countless hours of service are the backbone of this ranch. Because of you, lives are being changed every day.

• To our staff: Your hard work, passion, and faithfulness inspire me daily. You truly are the hands and feet of this ministry, and I am grateful to be leading such an exceptional team. You embody the spirit of the Living Water, touching lives with love and care.
• To our volunteers: Your servant hearts and willingness to give your time and energy are nothing short of extraordinary. From helping with events to caring for the horses, every act of service makes a difference. You are the living vessels through which God's grace flows.
• To our donors: Your generosity fuels everything we do. Your gifts create spaces for people to find hope, healing, and renewal in Christ. Through your support, you are offering others the Living Water they so desperately need. Thank you for believing in this mission and partnering with us.

Join Us in the Journey

As we step into this next chapter, I invite you to join me in prayer for the future of Ironwood Springs. Pray that we remain faithful to God’s calling, that we continue to grow in impact, and that every guest who steps onto this ranch experiences the love and presence of Christ. Just as Jesus promised that those who believe in Him will have rivers of living water flowing from within them (John 7:38), we pray that His living water continues to flow through this ministry—bringing renewal to those who come seeking His presence.

I’m also excited to connect with many of you personally—whether it’s during a retreat, an event, or over a cup of coffee. Together, we will continue to make Ironwood Springs a place where lives are transformed and God is glorified. Thank you for welcoming me into this incredible family. I’m humbled and honored to be part of this journey, and I look forward to all that God has in store.

With gratitude and anticipation,

Matthew Van Dixon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Matthew is the Executive Director of Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch, where he has joyfully served since 2022. A resident of Stewartville, Minnesota, Matthew lives with his wife and youngest son, and together, they are committed to making a positive impact in their community.

With over 20+ years of experience in education, Matthew’s career spans a variety of leadership roles in public schools, non-profit organizations, and a major sports organization where he led cutting-edge, impactful educational initiatives. His passion for making education accessible and meaningful has driven his work in the special education field, where he has designed inclusive learning spaces and created engaging programs for all development levels.

Matthew’s educational background includes a liberal arts degree from Simpson University, followed by graduate studies in Special Education and Theological Studies at National and Liberty University. His unique blend of skills allows him to bring a faith-driven, inclusive approach to his work at the Ranch.

As a parent of a child with autism, Matthew is particularly passionate about serving families with special needs. He strives to use his personal experiences and professional expertise to ensure that Ironwood Springs provides accessible, transformative experiences for everyone, regardless of their ability.

Matthew is excited to continue working alongside the Ironwood Springs community to glorify God and create meaningful experiences that educate, inspire, and make a difference in the lives of all who walk through the Ranch's doors.

MONTHLY BIBLE VERSE
2025 Ranch Theme: Living Water

Based on John 7:38

"Whoever believes in Me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them." — John 7:38 (NIV)

This powerful verse from John reminds us that through faith in Jesus, we receive the gift of the Living Water—a constant flow of grace, peace, and renewal that sustains us spiritually and physically. Just as water nourishes the body, Jesus' presence nourishes our souls, offering life and healing.

At Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch, we see this "Living Water" at work every day. Whether through our equine therapy programs, retreats, or community events, we are honored to provide a place where people can drink deeply from the well of God's love. Like the flowing rivers described in John 7:38, we aim to be a source of renewal for all who visit, sharing the healing and hope that only Christ can provide.

As we embrace this theme throughout the year, we invite you to reflect on how the Living Water flows through you and how you can help others experience its transformative power.