Healing Happens Here:
Meet Kelsey Kober, Farm Manager at Wallkill Correctional Facility
At the heart of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s (TRF) Second Chances Program at Wallkill Correctional Facility is a woman whose journey began with a simple farm tour—and has grown into seven years of deeply meaningful work. Kelsey Kober, Farm Manager at Wallkill, embodies the quiet strength and purpose that make Second Chances possible.
A Calling Realized on a 120-Acre Farm
Kelsey’s introduction to the TRF came thanks to longtime TRF Farm Manager, Jim Tremper. “Jim took the time to spend half a day showing me around Wallkill’s 120-acre farm,” she recalls. “I knew right then that this was where I was supposed to be.” That moment of clarity changed the course of her life—and brought her to the work she now calls her passion.
Every Horse, Every Human
With a calm and consistent presence, Kelsey manages the day-to-day care of the TRF herd and leads the men who participate in the Second Chances program. “I love working with all age groups of horses and incarcerated individuals,” she says. Her deep appreciation for the horses is matched only by her belief in the men she mentors.
Ask her to choose a favorite horse and she won’t. “They all hold a special place in my heart.”
Stories That Stay With You
After seven years with the program, Kelsey has witnessed hundreds of meaningful moments—but it’s the quiet reflections from the men that resonate most. “It would have to be hearing the men speak about their experiences with the horses and how the horses make them feel within themselves,” she says.
It’s not just horsemanship they’re learning—it’s connection, trust, and healing.
The Mission, Made Personal
To Kelsey, the TRF mission is crystal clear: “It’s about helping the horses. And it’s also about helping the men heal within themselves to be better versions of themselves upon release.”
She sees it happen every day—the transformations, the breakthroughs, the men who begin to believe in their own worth through the eyes of a horse.
Why It Matters
“The horses are what save the men and help them see a different side of themselves,” Kelsey says.
Her motivation is simple: show up for the horses, show up for the men, and let the rest unfold. With compassion, patience, and strength, she keeps the barn running—but more importantly, she keeps the hope alive for those seeking their second chance.
How You Can Help
💚 Support Our Work – Kelsey’s impact is made possible by donors who believe in the TRF mission.