Contact: Sabrina M. Brown                                                                                                   

Phone 732-431-7260

Fax 732-431-4813

E-mail:sbrown@njaes.rutgers.edu

For Immediate Release:

November 10, 2015

4-H Model Horse Show this Saturday

Opportunity for children to connect with horses

“This is a hands-on fun day for families to learn about horses and much more,” Freeholder Lillian G. Burry said. “This event furthers the efforts of our 4-H friends to educate animal lovers of all ages and interests.”

4-H’ers, non-4-H’ers and adults will participate. The world of model horses is both interesting and informative. Model horses are more than just toys but rather educational tools. Horse lovers of all ages and families will enjoy participating in this project. It is especially accommodating for people who do not have horses or for 4-H'ers who, because of health reasons, cannot physically work around live horses.

Ribbons will be awarded for first through tenth place. Day of Show Entries and spectators are welcome. To enter the show, or for further information, please contact sbrown@njaes.rutgers.edu.

The majority of children living in New Jersey today are growing up in the suburbs, but 4-H still offers a special opportunity to connect with the State’s agricultural heritage through the animal science program. The 4-H Horse Project of Monmouth County has been busy expanding those opportunities especially for children who don’t own their own horse.
                                                                                                                                                              
The goal of the animal science program is the same as that for all 4-H programs: to teach children important life skills through hands-on learning. While learning about their animal of choice, children in the animal science clubs gain a sense of responsibility, learn how to keep accurate records, gain self-confidence, discover potential careers, learn to present themselves in public and at the same time have a lot of fun. They may also participate in special countywide, state and national 4-H programs.

In addition to model horse shows, events such as the Hippology and Horse Quiz Bowl allow children who do not own a horse to learn more about them. These events are becoming more popular as farmland continues to decrease in New Jersey. But, regardless of what kind of 4-H club a child belongs to, the theme is the same: to make learning fun.

Thank you to the community partners who donate their time and talents to make these opportunities possible. If you would more information on volunteering in the 4-H program or about 4-H clubs in your area, please contact the Monmouth County 4-H office at 732-431-7260 or e-mail claudia.lammers@co.monmouth.nj.us.

The 4-H Youth Development Program is part of Rutgers Cooperative Extension.  Now celebrating its 100th year, 4-H offers educational programs to all youth, grades K-13, on an age appropriate basis, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability. For additional information, contact their website at http://www.nj4h.rutgers.edu/.

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