The Saline Reporter
A Heritage Newspaper
Weekly Publication
Happy Trails
Kids spend summer with horses, mentors
By Sue G. Collins, Staff Writer
PUBLISHED: August 21, 2008
Jermeny Mickell, 8, had never been on a horse before attending the Star Meadow Farms day camp this summer.
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Jude Pope baked his first loaf of bread in the kitchen at the farm's clubhouse, a sort of modern-day kids' saloon on the Hickory Road property owned by Bonnie Bayley.
The kids were among dozens of Milan-area youth who ventured out into the country for Bayley's first-ever kids' camp, staffed completely by Milan High School students who volunteered their time and talent to make memories for the kids who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience a horse-based camp.
Bayley dreamed up the idea when she retired and decided to build an equestrian facility and campus that would serve underprivileged youth and disabled people in the area.
This summer, her three-day-a-week camp has offered crafts, trips, hikes, hay rides, baking and, of course, horseback riding.
When DeAnna Manor of Milan read about Star Meadow Farms in The News-Leader last February, she mentioned it to her daughter, Milan High School equestrian Jenna Manor. Together, they worked with coach Kathy Mee and team members to pull together a crew to volunteer at the day camp. It wasn't difficult. Milan High School social worker Holly Feidler also helped coordinate volunteers.
"Ms. Mee told me about the camp and I knew that's how I wanted to spend my summer," said Toni Barnett, 15. "These are really good kids and when I see them smile and having fun, well, it's the best."
Barnett said she lost her father last year and wanted to spend her time helping others.
Bayley is amazed at the energy and dedication the volunteer teens have shown this summer. Members of Future Farmers of America and the high school mentoring program also have joined the staff.
"I'm pleasantly surprised at the response I've gotten from the high school kids. They take charge and make connections with these little kids. I'm elated these teens have given up so much of their summer to volunteer here," said Bayley, who is awaiting news confirming her camp's status as a nonprofit.
The camp kicks off at 10 a.m. Monday through Wednesday mornings. The campers begin their day by writing in their journal.
"I encourage them to write something virtuous about something they learned or something that made them feel good," Bayley said.
The kids are paired with a mentor and together they sit around a large craft table painting, drawing or molding farm animals from modeling clay.
John Bowerman made a pink snake on Tuesday. "It's a friendly snake. don't worry," he told his mentor, Jenna Manor.
Then, the kids head to the riding ring where they have the opportunity to learn about caring for horses and ultimately get to ride a pony with their guide.
"Tanner is a really nice horse. I like riding the horses even better than recess," said 7-year old Jude Pope.
There's a small pool, a garden for tending, trails to hike, a soccer field and acres of wide-open space. There have been visits from a magician and real cowboy this summer, as well.
At lunchtime, Bayley's neighbor, Shelly Bower, comes over and takes over the mess hall.
"She's indispensible, providing hot and nutritious lunches for the campers," Bayley said.
Bower helped the kids knead and bake bread earlier in the month. "The kids really responded to that tactile experience," she said. "If they are lacking this one-on-one at home, they definitely get it here. That's what it's all about."
Bayley hopes the camp will grow and continues to offer her facility for children's parties and group retreats. She peppers her calendar with charity events, sponsoring hay rides and outings for other non-profit groups, welcoming a group of abused mothers and their children from Monroe next month.
She is always looking for donations to help fill the cupboards at Star Meadow Farm and said she can use school supplies, craft supplies, nonperishable food and horse gear. Volunteers and donors may call 439-7613.
"It has been an amazing summer, watching the little kids gain confidence and the teens help them reach their goals," Bayley said.
Staff Writer Sue G. Collins can be reached at 429-7380 or scollins@heritage.com.
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