The Coelho Family’s decision to transform our family ranch into a charitable foundation was born from decades of experiences and reflections on the unique needs of Arroyo Seco and the broader South Monterey County region. Over many years, we have witnessed the profound joy our friends and their families experienced while swimming, hiking, barbecuing, and quietly relishing the serene beauty of our ranch in Arroyo Seco Canyon, with its picturesque river winding through. These cherished memories stood in stark contrast to an eye-opening moment I had while speaking to a class of sixth-grade students in Greenfield—children so disadvantaged that most had never visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium or even seen the Pacific Ocean, let alone learned how to swim.
We are aware that many South Monterey County families face significant challenges, including mental and physical health impairment and pervasive issues like drug and alcohol addiction. While such challenges can impact any household, they are particularly devastating for those struggling financially, often single-parent families. It was through this growing awareness that we realized our family ranch could become more than just a place for recreation—it could serve as a sanctuary for healing, growth, and empowerment. To our knowledge, no comparable space and mission existed in south county.
A pivotal moment in this journey came in 2008 when the Dietz family—a remarkable group of 11 who had relocated from Alaska to Arroyo Seco—entered our lives. Chad and Samara Dietz, who had adopted seven of their nine children, exemplified how parental love and commitment could transform severely mistreated children into kind, loving, and productive adults. Chad’s parenting skills are matched only by his artistry in metal and woodwork; his creations include wheelchair swings purchased by the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the stunning riverside dining facility now known as the Dietz Pavilion. Samara’s creative partnership with Chad also extends beyond parenting to enhance every aspect of the ranch’s infrastructure, exemplified by the new Oak Terrace & Sunset Park, ensuring they are safe, functional, and beautiful—perfectly suited to a charitable mission.
Confident that the Dietz family would join our dedication to this Mission, on March 28, 2024, our family officially gifted our ranch to the Coelho Ranch Foundation—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public benefit corporation dedicated to serving south county residents and communities and making a meaningful impact on those in need. It is our hope that this sanctuary will provide hope, healing and learning for generations to come.
