The local growers direct market this lamb to New Mexico customers. Ganados College Program Ganados started its College Program in 1993, initially as a staff development program to enable Ganados employees, who did not have nearby college course opportunities, to further their studies. In 1996, Ganados entered into an agreement with Chama Valley Schools and Northern New Mexico Community College to provide the only off-site undergraduate courses offered in the Chama Valley. Now the educational program encourages adults of all ages in the community to increase their skills in small business management, artisan training, health care technology, computer literacy, and other general education areas. The program currently provides college credit courses for 124 persons, computer literacy courses for 24 parents, and 10 other adult non-credit courses.
Some students take more than one course, and over half are in a degree or certificate program.
Accomplishments Community leaders, supporters, the funding community, and Ganados customers have created a nearly generations-long partnership to help preserve their way of life and keep historic lands and waters dedicated to agriculture. To date, over 500 families in the region have directly benefited through increased local employment and educational opportunities through the Ganados programs. Tierra Wools has earned local recognition and won national awards for strengthening and promoting the area's weaving tradition, preserving the endangered Churro sheep, and providing jobs with opportunity in the community. Ganados del Valle has received national recognition for its innovative programs, and has secured program development support from the McCune Foundation, The Ford Foundation, Kellogg Foundation, and the United States Department of Agriculture, and New Mexico Energy and Minerals, among others. Media recognition of Ganados' programs and achievements includes videos, books, and publications.