PSXII-3 The value of community service activities offered through horse breed associations for youth participants.

Abstract The number of youths struggling with mental health challenges has grown over the last few years and more traditional therapeutic intervention strategies have not hindered this rise. As such, non-traditional approaches to addressing this mental health crisis have been explored in recent years and have included youth participation in community service activities that incorporate animal interaction. Anecdotal evidence concerning the impact of participation has reflected positive outcomes for youth participants. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the impact of community service activities offered through horse breed associations on youth participants. Parents of youth that have participated in community service activities sponsored and organized by horse breed associations based within the United States were recruited for this study. Recruitment of study participants (n=39) was done through state affiliates of horse breed associations. Face-to-face interview-based survey methodology was utilized. Participants completed a semi-structured survey conducted by the research team that consisted of 10 open-ended questions. The age range for youth participating in these activities was 13-19 years of age with all (100%, n=39) taking part in at least two community service activities offered by their respective associations. These activities included working with horse shows (95%, n=37), equine-assisted services (23%, n=9), clinics/workshops (74%, n=29), horse rescues (15%, n=6), and trail rides (46%, n=18). Perceived benefits for youth included increased self-confidence (72%, n=28), development of equine-handling skills and knowledge (64%, n=25), enhanced empathy and compassion (69%, n=27), building leadership skills (82%, n=32), networking for future opportunities (49%, n=19), and improvement of time management skills (28%, n=11). Negative aspects of these activities as indicated by the parents included transportation (26%, n=10), costs (51%, n=20), and time (92%, n=36). Parents were asked how they perceived the mood of the youth after participation in which they all described mood as being positive (100%, n=39). Future participation was described by most participants as highly likely (87%, n=34), with the only non-returning youth being those who have aged out of the program (13%, n=5). These results suggest community service activities offered through horse breed associations are of benefit to youth participants, and as such, should be promoted through various outlets including Extension education and associated 4-H programming.