[Editor’s note: Most times we think of news as the reporting of local government controversies, crime doings, and generally the upsetting events that are happening in our communities. Yet underneath those obvious stories is a beating heart of a different kind of news story: one of residents working to provide community resilience with positive and productive activities. Follow Elektra Kehagias, former Wayne County Dairy Princess, as she describes the 4-H Horselovers club as an entity that harnesses a love of horses as a means to support community while enhancing the lives of its youth members.]

WAYNE COUNTY, PA — The Horselovers club began a new 4-H year on October 1. 

Just to recap what the previous year has encompassed would probably take an entire newspaper. Still, it is important to share the quality of the activities this club engages in and, hopefully, inspire new members to join.

What is a horselover?

What does it mean to be a member of the 4-H Horselovers club? Certainly horses are involved, but there is so much more.

There are different human components involved in “Gearing for Greatness,” which was this year’s theme for Wayne County 4-H. There are volunteer leaders guided by educators at the Penn State/4-H extension office in Honesdale. There are club members over the age of eight and the Cloverbud group, which consists of members under the age of eight. Last, but not least (in fact, most importantly), there are the parents and guardians of members, who assist children in participating in the club’s endeavors. 

The Horselovers club, as its name suggests, centers around various curricula, with its focal point being horses. Members learn the importance of quality animal management, horse health, safe practices, sportsmanship, proper tack choices, equine science and, of course, horsemanship.

This is only half the experience. The other half is about personal development. Members learn about responsibility, maintaining their own health, budgeting, cooperation and teamwork, public speaking skills, the values of diversity, community service and good citizenship. 

Through effective teamwork and mutual respect, the club has been able to complete many important projects.

Threading the needle 

The threads of learning about horses and having fun hold all of these experiences together like a pearl necklace. 

During the Christmas season, seasonally themed pony rides were held for the public. Many families attended, and all the Horselovers members worked together to make it a memorable occasion. Funds raised from the event were used to make purchases for local food pantries. 

A horse show was successfully organized and held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds. It raised funds to go back to the community. 

The Horselovers club made donations to the Dessin Animal Shelter. “Ouch pillows” were sewn by the members and brought to Wayne Memorial Hospital to be given to hospital patients after surgeries. Easter baskets were assembled for local residents who are less mobile. 

The Horselovers club partnered with the Upper Delaware Council for a litter sweep in Damascus, PA.

Members gathered together with various types of animals to create a petting zoo for the Ellen Memorial senior residence. 

Bringing smiles to others drives the members to organize these types of events. All the members learn the value of compassion, teamwork and community service. 

It is also important to mention the depth of knowledge and skills gained through participating in this club and the high level of the members in equine competitions. Notably, all eligible members of the Horselovers club performed successfully in the 4-H County Horse Show and the district horse show. Consequently, all the 4-H Horselovers members who are eligible are preparing for the upcoming state competition in Harrisburg. 

The Horselovers club leaders are Amy Rutledge, Sue Meyer, Teresa Kehagias and Jen Henderson. The members are Elektra Kehagias; Leah Salzameda; Parker Brown; Molly Peterson; Penelope Henwick; Zeta Bunnell; Addie and Lainey Henderson; Ryder Rutledge; Tegan and Liam Latourette; and Logan, Maeson, and Mallory Olver. Congratulations to all members for excellent work this past year! 

If you know anyone who might be interested in joining the Horselovers Club of Wayne County 4-H, contact the extension office at 570/253-5970. 

New members are always welcome. You don’t have to own a horse to be in the Horselovers club.

If you would like to help support the monthly 4-H pages, contact publisher@riverreporter.com.