Youth Homes of Mid-America, Johnsston, Iowa, is a private, nonprofit children’s and family social service agency

Our Mission:
Youth Homes will provide troubled youth and their families a path to independence.



Ross Campus, situated on 35 wooded acres, includes dormitory style cottages, classrooms, recreational facilities and administrative offices. In 2007, 470 young men and women received services through YHMA programs. A dedicated staff of 80 provides "the care that builds character."

"When you get involved with helping young people, you have to see it through. You can't go part way."
Hobart A. Ross
Founder of The Youth Homes of Mid-America

The Underground Company, LTD, began work on the site of the new Jacobson Cottage (show above). Click on the photo to access progress photos. Check back often to see what's new!!

Ross Campus Residential Treatment Center and Administrative Offices
7225 NW 58th Street, Johnston
P.O. Box 39
Johnston, IA 50131
Phone (515) 276-3473
Follow this link for a map.

Supervised Apartment Living
1132 44th Street
Des Moines, IA 50311
Phone (515) 279-2008

Community Services
1132 44th Street
Des Moines, IA 50311
Phone (515) 271-5699

We offer an individualized approach to each young person who is part of our program. While we maintain a focus on strengthening family life, re-establishing the self worth of the individual and teaching basic skills for living in the community, we tailor a program for each youth, employing a variety of techniques and strategies in counseling and teaching.