The Geocaching Club, headed by sophomore Matthew Hornbaker, is one of the newest additions to the list of Elizabethtown College clubs.
“I formed this club to bring a unique, fun, world-famous hobby to the students of Etown,” Hornbaker said. “I want to educate and show peers the joy of geocaching.”
According to Hornbaker, the outdoor activity yields several benefits, including social ones. “It teaches values in respect for the environment, it develops GPS and navigational skills, and it gives the opportunity to learn about local geography and history. In addition, geocaching can help develop social skills. For example, it promotes cooperation and communication. I am hoping many friendships can be made within the club as well. It has many lasting benefits which I hope to bring to Etown.”
Hornbaker discussed his plans for holding meetings and geocaching trips. He intends to schedule meetings every two weeks, to go on outings and Mount Joy in search of geocaches and start a Facebook page.
His long-term goals for the club include placing a geocache in town and attempting Pennsylvania’s most famous geocache. Dr. Matthew Willen, associate professor of English, advises the group. The club’s first meeting was on Tuesday, Oct. 14. “It was pretty successful, and the group is developing,” Hornbaker said. Students of any year and major are welcome to join the group. Interested students should contact HORNBAKERM@ETOWN.EDU.