Describe the Issue or Situation.

In today’s economy, many youth face challenges when it comes to gaining hands-on experience in business, agriculture, and personal development. The Pendleton County Youth Fair Livestock Shows and Sale provides a vital opportunity for local youth to exhibit livestock and engage in the real-world process of marketing their animals. However, not every supporter is able or willing to purchase an animal outright. Recognizing this, the county implemented an “Add-On” donation system that allows businesses and individuals to financially support youth exhibitors without buying livestock. This helps strengthen community investment in 4-H and FFA members and ensures the sustainability of their agricultural projects.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

As part of their livestock participation requirements, each youth exhibitor must actively seek buyers and "Add-On" sponsors. Participants create and distribute personalized buyer’s flyers, which include a letter of invitation and project details. This educational component teaches youth key skills in communication, marketing, and entrepreneurship. In addition, during the sale event, each youth is required to introduce themselves on the microphone, speak about their project, and share their future goals. For many, this was a nerve-wracking but rewarding experience that pushed them out of their comfort zones and helped build public speaking confidence.

To further engage and recognize community supporters, this year organizers introduced a new thank-you gift for all buyers: a free Pendleton County Youth Fair Livestock t-shirt. This simple gesture was met with enthusiastic feedback—buyers remarked how much they appreciated the chance to visibly show their support outside the barn and in their daily lives. The shirts helped promote community pride and extended the fair’s presence beyond fair week.

The Pendleton County Cooperative Extension Service, local FFA advisors, and dedicated 4-H volunteers supported all educational components of the program, from marketing preparation to public speaking and sale-day logistics.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

In 2025, 53 youth exhibitors participated in the livestock sale, showcasing a variety of species including market rabbits, chickens, turkeys, and larger livestock. These 4-H and FFA members ranged in age from 9 to 18 and represented diverse communities throughout Pendleton County. Their target audience for outreach included local business owners, agricultural industry professionals, and individuals with a vested interest in supporting youth development and local food systems.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

This year’s Youth Fair Livestock Sale reached a record-breaking total of $250,000, with $170,000 in livestock sales and over $80,000 in add-on contributions—an incredible testament to the unwavering support of the Pendleton County community. These funds go directly to the exhibitors, helping them recoup their investment and prepare for future agricultural projects.

Beyond the financial success, the program instills critical life skills in youth participants. At the sale, each exhibitor stood before a large crowd to introduce themselves, explain their project, and share their future plans. Many participants expressed feeling nervous beforehand, but the experience helped them develop confidence and poise in public speaking.

Evaluation feedback showed that 96% of youth felt more confident in promoting themselves and their projects, and 88% reported a better understanding of business and marketing principles. Buyers also commented that the personalized flyers, speeches, and added touch of a buyer’s t-shirt made the experience more meaningful and memorable. The shirts allowed them to show their support proudly throughout the community, beyond the show ring.

This program continues to support the local economy, strengthen community ties, and empower the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and agricultural professionals in Pendleton County.