UK Ag Equine Programs Host Annual Weekend of Service

By Blake Jackson

The University of Kentucky’s Ag Equine Programs, part of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, continued its annual tradition of giving back to Central Kentucky’s equine community through its Weekend of Service. Held Nov. 1-2 and Nov. 9, the event brought together 55 volunteers who contributed more than 150 service hours.

“Weekend of Service is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff and friends of all equids to pay it forward to our beloved equine industry here in the bluegrass,” said Mary Jane Little, event organizer and academic coordinator for the Equine Science and Management degree program. “From scrubbing water buckets, painting, mulching, organizing and cleaning tack to grooming horses, we strive to show our appreciation.”

The initiative began in 2020 as the Equine Week of Service during the pandemic, offering students a way to support Kentucky’s signature industry while connecting with peers who shared a passion for horses. Its popularity transformed it into an annual event, shifting to a weekend format in 2024.

“This experience reminded me how meaningful it is to serve through what we love and how giving back helps us grow both personally and professionally,” said Bethany Smith, an equine senior and program intern. “I’m so thankful to be part of a program that values service, leadership and connection within the equine industry.”

This year’s service activities supported African Cemetery No. 2, BraveHearts Equine Center and Central Kentucky Riding for Hope. These organizations play important roles ranging from preserving historic equine heritage to rescuing draft horses and providing therapeutic riding services.

Over the last five years, the program has contributed more than 2,000 volunteer hours to equine-focused nonprofits. Additional support this year included a donated seven-passenger van from BraveHearts founders David and Ruth Waronker, ensuring more students could participate.

“The Weekend of Service has become a wonderful annual tradition. Within the equine agriculture community, we meet interesting people and learn about wonderful programs. It also allows us to be the engaged and caring person we all admire and want to be,” UK Ag Equine Programs Director James MacLeod said.

“Sharing this very positive experience with students and my UK colleagues has been especially enriching for me.”

Photo Credit: gettyimages-patrick-jennings