The Boyle County Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Agent established a meaningful partnership with the Boyle County Investment in Youth Sale Board in 2024, focusing on advancing the program’s educational impact and financial sustainability. This collaboration empowered the ANR Agent to address the educational needs of participants while providing strategic guidance to enhance the profitability of fundraising events and the annual sale.

The Boyle County Investment in Youth Sale (IYS) program, which had long sought a robust community partnership, greatly benefited from this collaboration. Participants in the program are required to maintain comprehensive records for their project animals, including details such as weight, health, veterinary care, income and expenses, goals, and learning experiences, culminating in a project summary. The ANR Agent’s role in evaluating these record books helped instill essential skills in accountability, financial literacy, and project management among the youth.

The 2024 Boyle County Investment in Youth Sale, held on September 5th at the Boyle County Cooperative Extension Office, showcased the success of this partnership. The event attracted approximately 250 attendees, with around 20 youth participants. Their efforts generated an impressive $60,000 in sales, underscoring the program’s value to the community and its ability to support the growth and development of its young participants.