CHINCOTEAGUE, Va.—Volunteers with nonprofits across America often bake sweet treats, wash cars, or throw big-ticket galas to raise money for their organizations.
But the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company rounds up cash for operations in a way so heart-tugging that it attracts tens of thousands of spectators each year.
Their effort culminates in an auction of wild baby horses that raises enough money to pay for all of the fire training and equipment needed to protect the island community.
The foals that are sold come from a herd of wild ponies on nearby, unspoiled Assateague Island. The herd receives supportive care throughout the year from fire company volunteers….