4-H Youth Development gives youth opportunities to explore ideas and interest and gives them the means to develop skills that will benefit them throughout life. The Kentucky 4-H Livestock Program is a prime example. Through participation in livestock activities youth learn about animal husbandry, health, daily care, financial management, marketing, communication skills, decision making, career exploration and much more.

Caldwell County has had a thriving livestock program for several years. Much credit goes to the volunteer leaders and the time and knowledge they dedicate to the kids. This year was an exceptional year for the Caldwell County 4-H Livestock Judging Team.  Our senior team members have been  judging since the age of nine and they have always worked hard and supported one another.   

The Caldwell County Seniors placed 1^st overall with seven of our seniors placing in the top twenty.  Six members qualified for the Top 12.  We went on to have four county members on the Elite 8 Team and finally three team members that served on the Gold Team and represented Kentucky 4-H at the North American Livestock Contest in Louisville. 

The experience that these youth had traveling and judging across the country was like nothing they have ever or may experience in their lifetime. They were able to travel to several different states, learn judging techniques from others, learn to respect others’ opinions and ideas, live in close quarters with people other than family members, and think for themselves.   

One of the team members stated that “Being on the State Livestock Judging Team has been life changing.”  He concluded to say that “ before this experience I thought about a career in agriculture, but after being a part of the state judging team, I know without a doubt what my future career plans are.”  This young mans experience has become full circle.  He began judging when he was nine and continued through high school and then onto the state judging team.  Even though he has aged out he has continued to be a part of the county livestock club, "giving back" as they would say, serving as a volunteer leader.