Originally published in the Summer 2024 Confluence newsletter.
By Cara Lewis, Senior Communications Manager
In an environment where non-profits are often perceived as working in silos, CORRAL Riding Academy and TLC demonstrated the power of synergy by pooling resources and expertise to create a more substantial impact on the community.
Located in Cary, CORRAL is a faith-motivated non-profit that equips adolescent girls in high-risk situations through a long-term, holistic program of equine therapy and education to prepare each girl and her community with skills, resources, and opportunities so that she can gain access to a bright future.
Over two years ago, through the unwavering support and partnership with TLC through our NextGen Farming Program, CORRAL gained access to the Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve after losing their lease on a nearby property along the Neuse River.
CORRAL needed access to farmland and fields for their horses and a facility for the girls in the program. TLC was able to provide fields for the horses to graze through our programs for new and beginning farmers.
To express appreciation for letting the riding academy have access to the farmland, fields, and ranch house at Williamson for over a year, CORRAL team members presented TLC with a painted barn quilt at a special gathering in March at the preserve. Several young women reflected on their experience and the power of making new friends and gaining new confidence.
In addition to preparing the fields at Williamson for horses, volunteers from CORRAL also devoted many hours to cleaning out the ranch house on the property so that the girls had a place to meet for programs and activities.
“This partnership underscores CORRAL’s commitment to collaboration over competition within the non-profit sector, dispelling misconceptions surrounding the perceived rivalry among such organizations,” said Joy Currey, Executive Director at CORRAL. “Together, we are stronger and better positioned to address the challenges facing our community.”
Looking ahead, CORRAL Riding Academy and Triangle Land Conservancy are excited about the prospect of future collaborations, including the potential development of a third farm in Durham. By continuing to work together, both organizations aim to expand their impact, reach more individuals in need, and foster a culture of collaboration that transcends traditional boundaries within the non-profit sector.
TLC’s NextGen Farming Program – As part of TLC’s commitment to investing in local food production in Wake County, we host several new and beginning farmers who use sustainable agriculture practices that include regenerative cattle grazing, native plant propagation, and small-scale produce production. Although horses once roamed on the farmland at Williamson, no horses are allowed on any of our trails.
