Orange, VA — December 2, 2023 — The Virginia Thoroughbred Project is proud to announce its recognition as the Boys & Girls Club of Orange’s Community Partner of the Year. This esteemed accolade highlights the Project’s commitment to providing enriching, fun, and unique opportunities for the local youth community. Steve Goldberg, VTP Board Vice President, was in attendance for accepting the award!

James Compton, Chief Development Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Virginia, expressed gratitude, stating, “Thank you for creating enriching, fun, and unique opportunities for our members. Your investment in the Club strengthens and enhances the Club experience for our members. I’m so grateful for your belief and partnership in our important mission.”

This summer marked a fantastic season of learning and enjoyment for the Boys & Girls Club of Orange, Virginia, as they actively participated in the Virginia Thoroughbred Project’s new outreach program. The initiative aimed to connect local youth with horses and other creatures, providing an enriching and fulfilling experience.

One of the program highlights was the opportunity for club kids to ride former racehorses. On Tuesday, July 18, Virginia Thoroughbred Project friends Oliver Brown, Rachel Dillon, Alexandra Gilbertson, and Izzy brought over Opi, Happy, Sunny, and TJ. The children’s smiles were evident as they sat tall in the saddle while being led in the ring, creating unforgettable memories.

In addition to the joy of horseback riding, the educational component of the program exposed kids to the differences and similarities between Warmblood and Thoroughbred horses. VTP Board President Sally Hamlin led the wonderful environmental science talk. This eye-opening experience deepened their understanding and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. TJ and Opie showcased their jumping skills, leaving everyone in awe and possibly inspiring future dreams and passions for horses.

Throughout June, Earthquest captivated the kids with a demonstration featuring their rescued birds of prey, while veterinarian Dr. Jennifer LaPlume provided a day of hands-on equine health education.

The Virginia Thoroughbred Project extends heartfelt thanks to all who made this educational program with the Boys & Girls Club of Orange, Virginia possible. It remains a joy and an honor for the Project to share the beauty and grace of Thoroughbreds with the local community.

A special thank you to Crystal Weaver and Ron Chernie for all their support in making the farm beautiful and all the horses healthy and happy as well as James Miller, Unit Director for Orange Boys and Girls Club and Chase Rogan, Stem Director Central VA Boys and Girls Club, for all their help facilitating this partnership and the rest of the VTP board for all their help!

To learn more about the Boys and Girls Club of Orange, please visit https://bgclubcva.org/clubs/orange-club/ or their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bgcluborange.