Date:  May 8, 2023

OPEC Press Office

For Immediate Release 

CDCR Contact: OPEC@cdcr.ca.gov

TRF Contact: Kim Weir, kim@trfinc.org  M. 703 939 5052                                                     

WHAT: Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP) in partnership with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) is hosting an “Open Barn” event to celebrate the fourth anniversary of the innovative PVSP Second Chances Program. This innovative vocational training program provides incarcerated participants with life-changing job skills through its accredited equine care and stable management courses. TRF program providers work closely with participants to train horses that live on institution grounds. This valuable training can lead to employment opportunities upon release. This “Open Barn” is being held to demonstrate the powerful impact this program has had on the students’ lives and to also celebrate the anniversary of this successful program. Attendees will have the opportunity to interview and photograph program providers and participants as well as meet the horses that reside at PVSP. During the event, students will showcase their skills with live horse shoeing as well as an exhibition of basic grooming care. 

WHEN: Friday, May 12, 2023 Noon – 2 p.m. 

WHERE: Pleasant Valley State Prison 24863 W. Jayne Avenue Coalinga, CA 93210 (559) 935-4900 

WHY: CDCR values its partnership with TRF, an innovative vocational training program which gives the retired Thoroughbred horses a safe, forever home while teaching incarcerated individuals valuable skills. 

Prohibited attire: Clothing that resembles state-issued population clothing (blue denim, blue chambray), shorts, open-toed shoes, clothing that resembles law enforcement or military-type clothing, tight-fitting or revealing clothing. 

Please RSVP no later than close of business on May 10, 2023 to Jason Martin, Public Information Officer at jason.martin@cdcr.ca.gov in order to process security gate clearances.  CLICK HERE TO RSVP

About TRF: Founded in 1983 and currently celebrating its 40th anniversary, the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation is a national organization devoted to saving Thoroughbred horses no longer able to compete at the racetrack from possible neglect, abuse, and slaughter. As the oldest Thoroughbred rescue in the country, the TRF provides lifelong sanctuary to retired Thoroughbreds throughout their lifetime.  In 2023, the TRF celebrates four decades of Saving Horses and Changing Lives with gratitude for all who have made this possible. 

 

Best known for its pioneering TRF Second Chances Program, the organization provides incarcerated individuals with life-changing vocational training through its accredited equine care and stable management program. At eight correctional facilities across the US, including one juvenile justice facility, this program offers second careers to its horses and a second chance at life for program graduates upon release from prison.  The TRF Second Chances at Pleasant Valley State Prison began in October 2019 with support from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, West Hills Community College, and Harris Ranch Horse Division. For more information visit: www.trfinc.org