Our Story

In 2006, founders Rex and Julianne Buckner felt a deep calling to create a safe haven for children in Middle Tennessee—a place where young hearts could experience the healing love of Christ. With prayerful consideration and tremendous faith, they stepped away from their professional careers to pursue the dream that would become Mustard Seed Ranch.

At the time, there was nothing but a vision—no land, no structures, and no formal program. Yet that dream captured the hearts of an entire community. Local businesses, churches, professionals, and volunteers rallied around the Buckners, contributing materials, financial support, and thousands of hours of labor. This outpouring of generosity became the foundation upon which the Ranch was built.

Thanks to the continued support of individuals, churches, corporations, and foundations, Mustard Seed Ranch officially opened its doors on April 13, 2009, with the completion of its first two children’s homes. A second phase of development launched in 2019, adding two additional homes and expanding the Ranch’s capacity to serve more children in need.

Today, Mustard Seed Ranch sits on 113 acres of serene countryside in Putnam County, Tennessee. It includes five homes—four serving as full-time residences for children, and a fifth occupied by the Ranch’s Director of Operations, who provides day-to-day oversight and support. This home also functions as an emergency placement or respite option when needed. The Ranch also features an Administration Building, an Attachment and Trauma Center, a woodworking shop, and barns. Together, these spaces form a safe, Christ-centered environment where up to thirty children can heal, grow, and thrive.

This is the story of Mustard Seed Ranch—a story of faith, community, and the power of planting even the smallest seed to grow something life-changing.