“Frustration.” That’s the word John Phillips uses to sum up what it felt like to send 18-year-old kids to prison for life during his 21 years as a Monterey County Superior Court Judge.
“If only we could reach these kids earlier, they might have ended up in college or starting their careers,” Phillips says. “After a while, I stopped feeling good about my job. I didn’t feel like I was actually making a difference. So, I decided to do something about it.”
25 years ago, Phillips—now retired from his roles as a prosecutor and judge—leased the 100-acre site that had once been home to the Natividad Boys Ranch. He started building connections with the local construction industry and launched a nonprofit called Rancho Cielo.
“We had no idea how much this was needed,” Phillips admits. “The private sector and local business community blew me away with their support. It wasn’t just about money—they came to the campus, got their hands dirty, and mentored our kids. It was incredible.”
What started as a simple dream of a few classrooms has grown into a bustling campus. Today, Rancho Cielo helps over 200 students from Monterey County every year. Even better, 100% of our graduates leave with jobs in place or plans for higher education. Most importantly, they walk away with a high school diploma, self-confidence and the excitement to take on the world.
“Our mission to empower youth and transform lives keeps growing stronger,” says Rancho Cielo CEO Chris Devers.
Rancho Cielo is celebrating 25 amazing years throughout 2025. The festivities kick off on Feb. 23 with our 15th Annual Culinary Round Up at the Portola Hotel & Spa.
Stay tuned—there will be plenty more to come as we mark this milestone all year long!
