Support Us Button Widget

The TRF Second Chances Farm at Blackburn Correctional Facility

You might want to grab some tissues for this one.

LEX Blackburn-haltering.jpg

An inmate at Blackburn Correctional Complex haltering one of those horses. | Photo provided by TRF

Table of Contents

We all know how big the horse industry is in Lexington. What you might not know is the positive mental and emotional impact it has on those at Blackburn Correction Complex (BCC).

Today, we’re sharing with you the story of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation Second Chances Farm and how the special bond between humans and horses is helping provide a new lease on life for both.

What is the TRF Second Chances Farm? 🐴

The farm at BCC is one of eight created by the equine nonprofit the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF). The program allows inmates to build life skills through industry-specific training while learning about and providing supervised care to retired racehorses.

Inmates must apply to be in the program, which lasts about six months. During this time they work hands-on every day gaining trust with their horses. They also spend time in the classroom learning about anatomy, nutrition, and injury awareness through the Groom Elite Program, which provides them with credentials that are recognized and accepted around the industry.

Mission and next steps 💼

Part of the mission is to reduce the recidivism rate (the likelihood to recommit a crime) and teach the inmates a trade and skills that they can take on with them in their next phase of life.

The TRF Second Chances Farm at BCC has partner facilities, like Spycoast Farm, that are open to providing employment to graduates — a win-win that helps bridge the gap for former inmates and an industry that needs skilled employees.

How you can support 🤝

The TRF Second Chances Program does not receive government grants, so it relies on the gifts of dedicated supporters. Here are some ways you can be involved:

More from LEXtoday
If you’re looking to learn something new this year, jump in the tile-based game craze and give mahjong a try.
We’re sharing a little bit of history of the Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center + giving you a look inside the four new multi-use spaces.
Check out these brunch restaurants, cafes, and diners in Lexington, serving a variety of egg dishes, mimosas, bloody marys, and more.
Who’s performing, where to get tickets, and everything Lexington music lovers need to prepare for the return of Railbird.
Check out the co-working community that Lexington writers and New York Times bestsellers call home.
This elegant mansion in the heart of horse country is sure to excite equestrian enthusiasts — and everyone else, too.
Discover the civil rights leader’s connection to Kentucky, and find out how to observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Lexington.
Put down the phone and pick up the paint brush with these adult art classes — it’s also the perfect way to make your own one-of-a-kind gift for someone special.
The STREEET Safety Task Force will look for ways to increase traffic safety for drivers and pedestrians + decrease accidents and injuries.