It is the tender spirit of a young child – trying to decide which way to go, where to land in life, desperately seeking some moral footing on so many dark and shaky foundations. Left on their own without firm bearing, too many young hearts are taken astray, discovering all too late only the tragic side of life.
Finding an anchor – a positive connection to right living – is sometimes challenging, even brutish. But not with 4-H, the largest youth development and mentoring program in the United States that has helped develop positive traits in more than six million young people. In particular, 4-H equestrian competitions help anchor a child from going adrift.
We at the World Equestrian Center (WEC) proudly sponsor local organizations by urging clubs to host their shows at the largest indoor equine arena in the United States. Why do we do it? It’s a matter of the heart. We do it for the children, for this generation, for the future, for hope’s sake.
4-H Equestrian Competitions Develop Responsibility and Leadership
According to 4-h.org, the international organization sets its sites on developing , leadership, responsibility and life skills by experiential learning programs and a positive youth development approach. That’s a complicated mouthful.
But the organization – which began in 1902 – has a long and solid track record. More than 600,000 volunteers have offered their services to help young people. But there’s more: 4-H has 3,500 professionals and 25 million alumni investing their time and devotion to an organization that has four basic moral principles incorporating the whole self.
As in the clover symbol, the four Hs stand for Head, Heart, Hands and Health, with each symbolizing the four values members strive to attain. Head refers to managing and thinking; Heart, relating and caring; Hands, giving and working; Health, being and living
Members of 4-H clubs learn by doing, by accepting personal responsibility, by devoting themselves to projects involving science, citizenship and healthy living.
Local 4-H Clubs Welcome at Roberts
Locally, here at WEC in Wilmington, Ohio, when officials from Clinton County called to ask about pricing for 4-H equestrian competitions. We hosted the show at no expense. More than 100 area children – with their horses in tow – participated in the late June event. We salute the children, the parents, the volunteers and advisors, and the many extension agents for their involvement.
On the surface, the event was a particular success – so many children put their newfound confidence on display. We take pride in applauding the children’s hard work and dedication.
But beyond the event – that old-fashioned, down-home pomp and circumstance – and deeper than the spectacle of children demonstrating to the public the fruits of their labors of love lay so many changed hearts, so many young minds finding direction and purpose in life. Something happens in 4-H. And we at WEC open our doors to the four principles of 4-H and club leaders who work so hard to help dreams become reality.
WEC is a complete, full-service show facility, designed and operated by a family who owns and shows horses. Call us today or reach out on social media for more information or to book a show!