In Hancock County, Indiana, the livestock show ring isn't just a place for competition; it has become a unique stage where children of all abilities discover confidence, communication and pride. At the helm of this transformative arena is Hancock County Poss-Abilities, a groundbreaking mentorship program that pairs participants with experienced showmen for hands-on agriculture, empowering them to work directly with livestock.
Founded by Emily Meckel for her daughter, Emery, this program is proving a clear need for inclusion, having tripled in size in just three years. This rapid success is supported by partners like Farm Credit Mid-America. Read on to see the impact of this powerful experience and the essential role Farm Credit Mid-America plays in securing a more inclusive future for agriculture.
They’re so excited and proud of themselves in the ring. Those are skills that are going to carry them through into adulthood.
- Emily Meckel, Founder of Hancock County Poss-Abilities
A Blueprint for Confidence
In just three years, Hancock County Poss-Abilities now hosts 60 participants, versus the 20 in their inaugural year. This rapid growth, Emily noted, signals a clear need for this type of inclusive space in local communities. Built on a simple, effective model, a springtime meet-and-greet pairs participants with their mentor and showman, who then schedules at least three farm visits, working hands-on with the animal species they choose to show. The culmination of work is a celebratory showcase during the annual Hancock County Fair.
For the participants, the outcome is transformative. "They’re so excited and proud of themselves in the ring," Emily shared. She noted that the animals themselves — sheep, cows and hogs — are the tools, but the real lessons are in the soft skills: confidence, communication and resilience. In the arena, kids learn it’s okay to fail and try again. "Those are skills that are going to carry them through into adulthood," she said.
Emily believes the experience for the mentors is equally impactful. “The friendships developed between participants and mentors are truly remarkable.”
A Champion Partner in Farm Credit Mid-America
An element of the program’s success is the partnership with Farm Credit Mid-America. Account Specialist, Michaela Peters, recalls first learning about the program through social media. Coming from an agricultural and 4-H background herself, she recognized the potential impact of the initiative. “We know the affect this experience can have on somebody's life," she said. "To see Emily take that to the next level is touching. She gives children the opportunity to go out in the ring.”
We know the affect this experience can have on somebody's life and to see Emily take that to the next level is touching. It's impactful since we build our own communities and get to be a part of something larger.
- Michaela Peters, Farm Credit Mid-America Account Specialist
Farm Credit Mid-America has been a sponsor for the program for the last two years, providing more than just financial support. The customer-owned cooperative sponsored the post-show pizza party and, through a partnership with a local western store, ensured every participant is fitted with new show attire. “This detail is huge for the children’s confidence," Emily said. Farm Credit Mid-America volunteers also dedicate their time on show day, further bridging the gap within the agricultural community.
Michaela sees this as an extension of Farm Credit Mid-America’s purpose. “We build our own communities and get to be a part of something larger,” she said. By supporting Hancock County Poss-Abilities, Farm Credit Mid-America is not only securing the future of rural communities and agriculture®, but making sure that every child has the opportunity to experience the hard work and joy that comes with working in agriculture.
Supporting Inclusion in Agriculture
Hancock County Poss-Abilities is built on three pillars: inclusion, acceptance and individuality. “Watching the showmen stride into the ring with their animals, beaming with pride, is a testament to the fact that these kids are all more alike than they are different,” Michaela shared.
The most profound lesson, according to Emily, is that the children are never limited in any ability because of their disability. With support and a welcoming community, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. The program's growth proves that when you create the space, people — and partnerships — will step up to fill it.
Interested in learning more about Farm Credit Mid-America’s investments in the communities we serve? Visit our Community Investments page for more information.
