LEXINGTON, Ky. – The  television show “Yellowstone” was one of the inspirations for a young man to purse equine veterinary work. 

Nazarius “Naz” Jacobs is now a junior at the Univeristy of Kentucky’s Equine Science and Management program. 

He recently participated for the third year in the University of Kentucky (UK) Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s Ag Equine Programs annual Equine Weekend of Service event, Oct. 17-18. The event featured  32 participants who volunteered more than 80 hours.

Officials said the Weekend of Service connects UK with the equine community: “The UK Equine Weekend of Service was a wonderful reminder that giving back to the community is just as rewarding as the work we do every day,” said Mary Jane Little, event organizer and academic coordinator within UK’s program’s equine science and management degree program.

“With beautiful weather, incredible students and the support of our outstanding equine industry partners, it was a special opportunity to come together, make a difference, and celebrate the spirit of service that makes this industry so unique,” she added. “We are grateful for these partnerships and proud to be part of an equine community that gives back.”

The student-driven effort began at the Equine Week of Service in 2020 during the pandemic lockdown days, officials said in a Nov. 3 media statement: “Students wanted to help support one of Kentucky’s signature industries in a meaningful way while finding opportunities to connect with other students who share a similar passion for horses.

“The event was wildly popular, and it became an annual tradition,” officials added. “The full week of service transitioned into a weekend of service in 2024.” 

Officials said this year’s volunteer efforts benefited BraveHearts Equine Center, Justin’s Place, Kentucky Equine Adoption Center and Spy Coast Farm’s EquiConnect annual event, with the center offering “a haven for rescued horses and burros.” Officials added that the mission of Justin’s Place is to offer a safe and supportive environment for children ages three to 13 with a disability or disorder diagnosis to experience horses.

Little said students come back year after year, not only because of what they are able to give, but also because of what they feel they are getting from the experience themselves. 

“This was his (Jacob’s) third year coming to BraveHearts (Equine Center), and each year, he has gained so much,” she said. “The first year, he discovered his passion for nonprofit and rescue work. Last year, he made an additional visit to BraveHearts on his own time to further connect and volunteer.

“This year, he is interested in one of their part-time positions over the winter,” she added. “It just shows that when a student shows up ready to learn and work with a good attitude, doors open, and that student’s network expands.”

Jacobs said he had “tons of fun” volunteering at BraveHearts for the third time, and looks forward to the volunteer day every year to go out there and help: “My favorite part is always at the end when we get to play with the donkeys and help.

“While out there, I was offered an amazing paid internship to come and help with barn chores over Christmas break,” he added. “This Weekend of Service gave me a huge foot in the door to do more at BraveHearts, and add more to my resume.”

During the past six years, the initiative has resulted in almost 2,200 volunteer hours given to nonprofits in Central Kentucky’s equine industry, said Jill Stowe, UK Ag Equine Programs director.

“The Weekend of Service is a meaningful opportunity for our students for so many reasons,” she said. “First, our local stakeholders invest significantly in our students’ education, and giving back is just one way to show our gratitude.

“Second, because many equine-related activities depend largely on volunteerism, instilling that practice with our students is important,” she added. “Finally, the Weekend of Service often allows our students to gain additional hands-on opportunities with horses while giving back. It’s a win-win-win.”

Jacobs said his career plans are to also be in horse pharmaceutical sales: “My goal is to start my own business that can be remembered, and to also have influence to make positive change in the industry.”

He said his advice to anyone seeking a career in equine science is to never be too hard on yourself: “If you’re struggling with something, most likely, the person next to you is, too. So just ask for help and never let your pride be your downfall.”

To learn more UK Ag Equine Programs, visit: https://equine.mgcafe.uky.edu/.