March 2021 Issue

Page 4 March 2021 EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN By Educating Children, Days End Farm Horse Rescue Hopes to End Cruelty though there will be some chang- es to ensure social distancing. “This summer we are happy we are going to have a camp again. it might look a little different, but we are determined to have kids at the farm at their happy place and back with their favorite horses,” Wetzelberger said. “It’s a place that the kids come, and they laugh, they make friends and they’re carefree and it’s a safe place.” March Readathon The organization is also connecting in the community this March with a month long readathon. “We try to reduce violence by teaching empathy and respect for all living beings. We want our young supporters to become caring and respon- sible citizens, so we are using books that inspire those themes,” Wetzelberger said. “They have pledges they can use to raise money for horses. We have a lot of kids that have signed up for it and there are prizes they can win along the way.” As a part of the readathon, the organization has created a book about one of their rescues – a miniature horse named Vinnie the Mini. Readers follow Vinnie’s story and can add illustrations as they find out how he came to the farm, where his life changed. Through the camp, vol- unteering, and other outreach programs youngsters get a chance to have hands on time with the horses, leading them in from the pastures, grooming, feeding and cleaning. This way they not only have fun, but they learn an appreciation for horses and the responsibility that comes with it. “Ultimately, we want them to think ‘I have fun, I love being here, I’m a better person when I’m here. And I’m a better person when I leave’. While they’re at our farm having fun and making new friends, that’s where teach- ing is organically happening,” Wetzelberger said. “It’s a perfect blend of fun and teaching while being hands-on with the horses.” The inclusion of commu- nity education is a natural part of farm’s programs, “Where our education programs come into play - our ultimate goal would be to one day work ourselves out of a job and there not be equine neglect or cruelty anymore, I think we have made headway but there are still issues,” Wetzelberger said. “Our education programs aim at teaching empathy, compassion and respect. Children go away with a new outlook on responsibility, their role and how they can be an advocate for change.” In a non-Covid year, there would be many activities at Days End Farm Horse Rescue includ- ing scout days, school field trips, and legacy volunteer programs to encourage children to volunteer starting at an early age. The farm is normally open for tours every day. Visitors of all ages and all walks of life, from rural areas and inner cities, all are welcomed with open arms. “It’s an inspiring experience,” Wetzelberger said. “Your first time, you’re shocked and you can’t believe this is possible, how can someone do this to a horse. But look too at the people that are saving this horse. We have a unique opportunity - when a horse arrives that is skin and bones. They see the worst of humanity they see the peo- ple that allow the horse to get to this depleted state. It’s gut wrenching but then, they see dozens of people surrounding that horse with love and compassion to save their life. We’re in a unique position where you see the worst and the best of humanity colliding all at once.” With over 70 horses at the farm currently, there is always room for volunteer help and financial supporters. “Our successes are only possible because of the people who make it happen and volunteers are a big part of that,” Wetzelberger said. “Ultimately, they all leave smiling, learning something, and having a unique experience with a horse.” For more information on summer camp, programs, volun- teer opportunities, horse adop- tions, or to make a contribution, visit the website at www.defhr.org They can also be found on Face Book, Instagram and other social media. From the website you can sign up for an email newsletter to keep up with the latest happen- ings at the farm. (Continued from page 1)