Achild's love of horses is almost universal. The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore foster this love with a variety of equestrian programs and horse camps for girls throughout the year. Now, it's inviting the entire community to become involved by attending its first Horse Expo, which will take place from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. August 9.

"Our horse programs have become so popular with girls of all ages, the expo was a natural response to the growing interest," Michelle Masarik, outdoor program specialist, said. "We're trying to make horses accessible to everybody."

Every year, hundreds of girls experience the joy of riding and caring for horses first hand through the Girl Scouts' partnership with Manchesterbased Chariot Riders and Argos Farms in Lacey Township. The Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore even have an equestrian center that's open year-round located on site at its Monmouth Service Center.

"Our horse programs reflect our mission," Susan H. McClure, chief executive officer, said. "They give girls the courage to try something new and the confidence to learn new skills. Through the learning process the girls build character and life skills without realizing it because they are having so much fun with the animals."

During the Horse Expo, local equine vendors will conduct demonstrations, provide educational materials and talk about what they do for horses in the area.

"The Monmouth-Ocean area has a rich horse history and many equine opportunities that people outside the horse community probably don't know about," Masarik said. "This is their chance to learn about one of the many agricultural treasures of the great Garden State we live in."

There is no fee to attend the expo at the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore's Program Activity Center located at 127 Yellow Brook Road, Farmingdale.

Vendor opportunities for the expo are also still available. Tables cost $10 each and each vendor may display educational materials, conduct demonstrations and distribute information about their programs. Vendor registrations are due August 1.

In addition to providing an experience for families to witness the strength and elegance of horses first hand, the expo will also kick off the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore's new horse club, Masarik said.

The horse club is open to girls of all ages and experience levels. The club will meet monthly and will cover a different equine topic each month. The first meeting will be in late fall or early winter at the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore's Program Activity Center.

For more information, contact Michelle Masarik at 732-938-5454, ext. 181, or at mmasarik@girlscoutsjs.org.