Dear Community and Valued Supporters,

For years, ‘Red Barn Academy and Red Barn Farms has kept the farm in Farmington.’ Our community has stood as a beacon of hope—offering men a second chance through honesty, accountability, and hard work. You have been part of that journey, supporting a mission that transforms lives and heals families. For that, we are deeply grateful.

Today, we’re writing to share exciting news. We are evolving!

Red Barn Academy has now transitioned to John Volken Academy, joining a proven program with a long-standing commitment to changing lives. Though our name has changed, our purpose remains the same. The same dedicated students, staff, and values you’ve trusted continue to drive our mission forward.

Why the change?

Because growth is essential. By joining John Volken Academy, we are securing a future that provides even greater opportunities for the men we serve. We now stand alongside JVA’s locations in Gilbert, Arizona, and Kent, Washington—expanding our reach while preserving the core principles that made Red Barn Academy what it was.

What hasn’t changed?

A commitment to whole-person change through accountability, life-skills development, community, and service.
The same students and staff who have built this program with their dedication and hard work.
A belief that change is possible and that every person deserves a second (or third/fourth/fifth) chance.

What’s new?

A powerful partnership with John Volken Academy, providing long-term stability and enhanced opportunities for our students at a new, purpose-built facility in North Salt Lake.

A dedicated board of directors ensuring the program’s success and growth.

A future built on the foundation of John Volken’s life mission and the fundamentals of what Red Barn started—ready to make an even greater impact

We invite you to continue this journey with us. Whether you’ve supported us through donations, partnerships, or simply by believing in what we do, your role in this mission remains invaluable. This transition isn’t an ending. It’s a new chapter, built on the foundation of Red Barn, strengthened by the opportunities of John Volken Academy.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let’s keep changing lives, together.

A vital part of my recovery

“I have been attending activities and many other groups at Red Barn Farms for almost 2 years. This has been a vital part of my recovery and the amazing life I now enjoy. Amazing staff that are always willing to help in any way possible. Thanks for being a part of my recovery.”

- Sue Jones

Truly does save lives and families

“Red Barn Farms and Red Barn Academy is a great example of a therapeutic community that truly does save lives and families. I have several family members who struggle with substance abuse issues, and lost my sister to a drug overdose last year. This is the first program I have seen that offers the right support people need to recover. As a community, we need to bind together to support their efforts so that they can expand and serve more men and women who deserve the opportunity to be their best self and for their families to be whole.”

- Marcie V.

One of THE Best Recovery programs

“One of THE Best Recovery programs out there! Love this place and all the amazing work they do and LIVES they SAVE!”

- Lucky H.