The Pleasant Valley State Prison (PVSP), in collaboration with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) and West Hills College Coalinga, celebrated the fourth anniversary of the "Second Chance Program" in May 2023. This groundbreaking initiative allows inmates to learn new skills through accredited equine care and stable management courses. This program has positively impacted participants' lives to support the rehabilitation of inmates and rehoming retired racehorses.
"The Second Chances Program, part of the West Hills College Coalinga Rising Scholars program, recognizes that students who have experienced the criminal justice system often face significant barriers to academic and career success," said Sam Aunai, West Hills College Coalinga Vice President of Instruction. "At West Hills College Coalinga, we embrace all students, including those currently and previously incarcerated."
The Rising Scholars program at West Hills College Coalinga aligns with the overarching mission of promoting equity and providing opportunities for academic success for individuals who have interacted with the criminal justice system. West Hills College Coalinga allows incarcerated individuals to enroll and attend college classes held at Pleasant Valley State Prison. The Second Chance program is one of many opportunities offered through the Rising Scholars program. It is a collaboration between the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, Pleasant Valley State Prison, and West Hills College Coalinga.
For many inmates in the Second Chance Program, their first encounter with a horse is a truly transformative experience. Previously unfamiliar with these majestic creatures, they quickly learn to conquer their fears and establish a connection with the animals they care for. PVSP inmate at West Hills College Coalinga student Oscar Renteria, who had never touched a horse before, shares his experience, stating, "I was kind of scared at first, but now I go in there like nothing and groom them, bathe them." This newfound connection with the horses offers a unique personal growth and emotional healing avenue.
By partnering with West Hills College Coalinga, the Second Chance Program allows inmates to earn college credit through equine science courses. Students receive comprehensive training in Groom Elite, a program recognized throughout the equine industry. This specialized knowledge equips them with the skills necessary for careers in horse-related industries such as farms, racetracks, and showgrounds.
The Second Chance Program catalyzes positive change, providing inmates with an avenue for personal development and acquiring transferable skills. Inmate Carl Slone reflects on the program, stating, "You go to deeper levels with the horses and in your relationship and relationship with the horse. It's been a positive experience." The program equips participants with practical skills and facilitates emotional growth, empathy, and responsibility.
Dave McGlothlin, a retired Harris Farms Horse Division manager, emphasizes the need for more programs like the Second Chance Program across the United States. The horse industry faces a shortage of skilled and semi-skilled workers, making these programs an invaluable resource for meeting the industry's demands. By providing comprehensive training and education, inmates gain a chance to rebuild their lives and secure meaningful employment upon their release. McGlothlin highlights, "The training that West Hills College Coalinga provides at the prison for these gentlemen can help them in life after their experience here."
The success of the Second Chance Program is owed to the collaboration between various organizations. The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation received a grant from the California Department of Corrections in 2022, further supporting their efforts to promote rehabilitation through Equine Science. "In partnership with TRF and PVSP, West Hills College Coalinga offers Equine Science courses during Fall and Spring semesters, allowing students to earn college credit while incarcerated," said Aunai. "These partnerships are crucial in facilitating the re-entry process and providing individuals opportunities to succeed in their futures."
The Second Chance Program implemented at Pleasant Valley State Prison, in collaboration with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation and West Hills College Coalinga, successfully transformed inmates' lives while contributing to the welfare of retired racehorses. The program provides inmates with newfound skills, personal growth, and a sense of purpose by offering inmates the chance to learn equine care and stable management. By creating opportunities for personal growth, education, and rehabilitation, the Second Chance Program is a shining example of how second chances and the power of the human-animal connection can positively impact lives and build a brighter future for all involved.
