FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Hundreds of students have passed through Hooley Farms learning about animals, in particular horses. 

The farm is owned by husband and wife team Cory Hooley, a Fort Wayne Community Schools teacher; and Sarah Hooley, an Executive Pastor with City Church. Together they have grown the business Cory’s grandfather started 40 years ago where he managed the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo pony ride area by supplying his pony herd throughout the years.

The Hooley’s non-profit organization now concentrates on a variety of horse experiences, including horse encounters, events (birthday parties, photo shoots, field of flowers, and even a marriage proposal), and a summer horse camp, which has introduced more than 800 elementary students since 2021 to lessons on horsemanship, teamwork, and character development.

Taking this a step further, the Hooley Horse Youth Initiative Program formed, which was recently awarded a grant through the City of Fort Wayne to assist under-resourced neighborhoods, which provides scholarships and removes financial barriers for these youth. Middle and high school students learn the SHIP traits: Self-Control, Humility, Integrity, and Perseverance. Former camp participants serve as volunteers to help mentor and engage the beginners through experiences from their own journey.

Each year the number of elementary schools reaching out for field trip encounters increases. The Hooley’s said, “our main focus is to connect with people and educate; these lessons will build confidence, resilience, and leadership that last a lifetime.”

The Hooley Farm breeds and raises miniature farm animals: horses, donkeys, highland cattle, and Nigeria dwarf goats. Cory was excited to share the news that “this coming Spring there will be newborn babies to observe. These small-scale animals help introduce youth to agriculture, animal care, and life on the farm.”

For more information visit their Facebook page: Hooley Farms – Horses, Highlands & Flowers.