BREAKING NEWS: PBR Champion José Vitor Leme Invests $3.6 Million to Build Shelter for Homeless Youth in Texas
In a heartwarming display of generosity and community spirit, two-time Professional Bull Riders (PBR) World Champion José Vitor Leme has pledged $3.6 million toward transforming a historic ranch property in Texas into a shelter for homeless youth.
The facility, named “Ride to Rise Ranch,” will offer housing, education programs, life skills training, and therapeutic equine experiences for at-risk and homeless teens across the state. Leme, originally from Brazil and now a beloved figure in American rodeo culture, said the idea came from his own experiences of hardship and perseverance.
> “I know what it means to struggle,” Leme said in a statement. “Bull riding gave me a path, but not every young person gets that chance. I want to help them find their ride.”
The project is being developed in partnership with local nonprofits and mental health professionals, and will include on-site counselors, a small animal sanctuary, and classrooms for GED and vocational training.
Leme, known for his record-breaking 98.75-point ride on Woopaa, has continued to dominate the PBR circuit, but this move signals a deepening of his legacy beyond the arena.
Construction is set to begin this fall, with the first group of residents expected to move in by spring 2026.
Community leaders, fans, and fellow riders have praised Leme’s initiative, calling it “a game-changer” for youth services in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on Ride to Rise Ranch and José Vitor Leme’s impact outside the chute.
