Building Confidence and Lifelong Skills

At Palmer Home for Children, the Cattle Program generously sponsored by Valero Energy is more than just a unique initiative—it’s a life-changing experience for the children in our care. Through hands-on involvement with the program, Palmer Home children learn responsibility, gain valuable agricultural knowledge, and most importantly, build self-esteem as they care for and manage cattle.

The Valero Cattle Program provides Palmer Home children the opportunity to learn about animal care, farm management, and the importance of hard work. Many of the children who come to Palmer Home have faced challenges, including instability and trauma, and this program offers them a chance to connect with nature while building confidence in their own abilities. By participating in the Cattle Program, children at Palmer Home can:

• Learn the value of responsibility and discipline through daily cattle care routines
• Develop a sense of accomplishment as they see the tangible results of their work
• Build trust and teamwork through shared tasks with staff and peers

The children involved in this program walk away with increased self-esteem, knowing they’ve contributed to something meaningful. As they care for the animals, they experience the joy of nurturing, which can be especially healing for those who’ve experienced difficult pasts.

“Valero is proud to support the Palmer Home Cattle Program,” said Felix Dornier, Valero’s Director of Technical Services. “Both of our organizations share a common commitment to enhancing the lives of children right now and leaving a legacy that will last for generations to come. This program helps children grow, learn skills and realize their full potential. The Cattle Program is just one example of Palmer Home’s life-changing impact. I’m excited to be a new member of Palmer Home’s board of directors and offer my personal support to this incredible, faith based organization.”

The Palmer Home Cattle Program wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Valero Energy, whose sponsorship helps ensure that the program continues to grow and thrive. Through this partnership, Valero Energy has shown a commitment not just to the children of Palmer Home but to creating sustainable, community-driven initiatives that make a real difference.

Jessica Corley, Palmer Home’s Vice President of Development shares her insights into how the Valero Cattle Program is tailored to meet the needs of the children:

“The Valero Cattle Program is a perfect example of how organizations can tailor their donations to make a direct and tangible impact. We’ve seen firsthand how programs like this build confidence in the kids. It’s so much more than just raising cattle—it’s about teaching life skills and giving them a sense of pride in their work. Companies like Valero can take a specialized approach to support our mission, and that creates a lasting difference.”

How Organizations Can Tailor Their Support

The Valero Cattle Program illustrates how organizations can tailor donations in ways that are meaningful and impactful. This allows brands to align their contributions with specific interests, ensuring their donation goes beyond financial aid and directly supports initiatives that resonate with their values and corporate goals.

• Tailored Giving: Whether it’s sponsoring programs like the Cattle Program or contributing to educational initiatives, organizations can customize how their donations are used, ensuring a deep and lasting impact on the children of Palmer Home.
• Community Engagement: Valero Energy’s support highlights the importance of corporate social responsibility and how tailored programs can build a sense of community both for the organization and those it helps.

Join Us in Changing Lives

The Palmer Home Cattle Program is just one of many ways that our children learn and grow. By partnering with organizations like Valero Energy, we’re able to offer programs that give children a chance to heal, develop skills, and build confidence.

If your organization is interested in supporting Palmer Home in a way that aligns with your goals and values, please reach out to our team at development@palmerhome.org. Together, we can continue making a difference, one program at a time.