Second Chances at James River
A Chapter of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
News
- A word from our new counselor, Brandy Nixon. Read letter.
- Greener Pastures celebrates its first birthday with an Open House. Read more.
- Sean McClure creates a logo for the Greener Pastures program. Read more.
- Debbie Hamman Joins TRF. Read more.
- James River acquires Talk of the Block, "Toby." Read more.
- TRF-James River participates in polo match fundraising. Read more.
Calendar of Events
- Please check here in January for the list of events for 2009.
In 2007, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation and the
Virginia Department of Corrections entered into a partnership
to provide rehabilitation and training for inmates,
using ex-racehorses rescued by the Foundation.
Greener Pastures, located at James River Work Center in Goochland County, is the newest of nine “Second Chances” programs developed by the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation nationwide.
Dozens of local volunteers have helped organize the program and raise nearly $100,000 to pay for the renovations to the barn, the professional horse management curriculum, and the day-to-day upkeep of the horses. The DOC has provided the pasture land, the unused barn, and part-time supervision of the program, while private donations have been used to establish the program and provide on-going funding for its operation.
The first graduates of the program are due for release beginning in May of 2008. Additionally, the Foundation has begun adopting out horses from the herd, making room for additional rescued horses.
This is not only a heartwarming story, but a good example of a public-private partnership that generates great benefits for society.