The U.K., Cooperative Extension Service and Kenton County 4-H certified livestock volunteers plan and execute the educational meetings required for livestock participants in Kenton County. The 4-H livestock project involves raising and caring for live animals while learning about animal health, nutrition, breeding, selection and marketing. Animal projects offer outstanding opportunities for individuals to gain experience in decision making, record keeping, responsibility, and leadership. Three Kenton County 4-H livestock volunteers have been nominated for and received the Kentucky 4-H Certified Livestock volunteer award because of their dedication to the 4-H Livestock program, educational efforts benefiting youth, and passion for helping youth and families participate in livestock projects. The volunteers’ contributions impact Kenton County 4-H where it is fundamentally the most important to the 4-H member – exhibiting livestock projects and providing animal care education. The 5 current 4-H livestock volunteers were surveyed in the fall of 2017, they believe the most significant contribution they make are the educational efforts and programs. Youth can learn about raising healthy livestock and improve their life skills and ability to function independently.  Consulting with local experts – Veterinarians, feed producers, university staff, allows families to make informed decisions about feed, housing and veterinary care. The 4-H livestock volunteers plan and execute the yearly class schedule and events. The 4-H livestock volunteers work with all youth and parents regardless of their livestock experience to educate them about the livestock program. They also work within the framework provided by the Kentucky 4-H program including rules and guidelines. They encourage involvement with local clubs, county 4-H events, and committees. The livestock volunteers express a genuine interest in encouraging all youth members to complete their 4-H projects. Since 2008 the 4-H certified livestock volunteers have facilitated 164 hours of instructional time reaching 428 youth for a minimum of six hours. The personal commitments of the volunteers far exceed the hourly number if one considers re-certification time, travel, preparation, set-up and clean-up time.  The survey results from fall 2017 also stated, “…the topic was very up to date and very appropriate to our situation.  The instructor (4-H Agent) is always prepared and professional.  I benefit greatly from these programs”.