Open Hearts Livestock Show Returns to Marion County Fair, Celebrating Inclusion and Community Spirit

Since 2021, the Marion County Fair has proudly partnered with the Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities and OSU Extension to host the Open Hearts Livestock Show—a heartwarming event celebrating inclusion, mentorship, and the joy of showing animals.

_{All 2025 showpersons learned how to show animals and worked with them on Steve and Katie Isler’s farm. Here, Kayden Rush is pictured working with his 4-H mentor and a pig.}

This year’s show will occur at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 4, in the Evers Show Arena, just before the evening’s fireworks. Organizers invite the entire community to come out and cheer on the participants in this inspiring showcase.

The event is open to individuals ages 8 to 21 with developmental disabilities. Each participant, known as a “showperson,” is paired with a 4-H mentor who guides them through the experience—teaching, supporting, and encouraging them every step of the way.

The idea for the show began as a dream of then-high school student Kyla Stockdale from River Valley. With the support of her parents, the Marion County Board of DD, and a lot of determination, Kyla brought the event to life. Since its inception, the show has welcomed between eight and twelve participants annually. This year, nine showpersons will take the ring.

Among them is 12-year-old Kayden Rush, a first-time participant. His mother, Heather, discovered the event through the Marion County Board of DD’s Facebook page.

“I saw this event and thought it would be a great way for Kayden to explore a new interest without the anxiety of doing it alone,” Heather said. “I loved the idea of him showing with an experienced 4-H mentor.”

Kayden is diving in headfirst—he’ll be showing pigs, rabbits, and goats, making the most of this unique opportunity.

_{2024 Showpersons and their 4-H mentors after the event with their awards and lots of smiles}

Although Kyla Stockdale has since gone off to college, she ensured the event would continue by passing the torch to Megan Beltz of Central Ohio Farmers Co-op Inc.

Megan didn’t hesitate to say yes.

“I’ve known Kyla since before she was old enough to show,” Beltz shared. “I was so proud of her when she brought this show to our community. It’s been an honor to be part of it this year.”

Beltz described the experience as humbling and eye-opening.

“There’s so much planning involved to make this a positive experience for the participants. Watching our 4-H teens work with each showperson has been incredibly rewarding. I have a big place in my heart for our teen mentors.”

Heather is excited to see her son take the ring.

“Watching him do something he loves is the most important part of our journey,” she said. “I hope he learns responsibility, commitment, and how to care for animals.”

Nikki Workman from the Marion County Board of DD echoed the enthusiasm.

“My favorite part of my job is watching the people we serve do things others often think they can’t. This experience is so rewarding—for them and for me as a fan in the stands.”

Workman expressed deep gratitude to everyone who makes the show possible year after year—from Kyla and Megan to the fair organizers and dedicated volunteers.

“It’s a true community effort, and the impact is immeasurable.”