BY KENDAL RAE JENSEN
In the heart of Weber County, a remarkable initiative is shaping the lives of young individuals, instilling values of responsibility, hard work, and entrepreneurship. The Weber County Junior Livestock Program, once an integral part of Weber County and the Weber County Fair, has evolved into an independent, self-supporting association, Weber Junior Livestock Association Inc. Led by the dedicated duo of Craig Jensen, the President, and Bryan Douglas, the Vice President overseeing daily operations, along with a team of 16 passionate volunteers, this program is sowing the seeds of success for the youth of Weber County.
From Dependence to Independence: A New Chapter for the Livestock Program
In recent years, the Weber County Junior Livestock Program has gracefully evolved into a self-sufficient entity, forging its own path as the newly organized Weber Junior Livestock Association. This move empowers the program to chart its own course, ensuring that its mission to empower youth through agriculture remains at the forefront.
The new association wants to create an environment where the youth have a more direct impact on the program’s future. Becoming independent allows them to tailor their efforts to the specific needs of the kids and the community.
A Thriving Program: Fostering Youth Development Through Livestock Exhibitions
The heart of the Weber Junior Livestock Association lies in its commitment to fostering personal and educational growth among the participating youth. The program centers around FFA (Future Farmers of America) and 4-H, providing a platform for youngsters to showcase their hard work and dedication in raising and presenting livestock animals, including market hogs, market lambs, market steers, and market goats.
Each year, these young individuals invest countless hours in raising their animals, culminating in the grand showcase at the Weber County Fair produced independently by the Weber Junior Livestock Association. The climax of the event is the show and auction, where the youth hone their showmanship skills and then auction off their animals to the highest bidder. The funds generated from these auctions play a pivotal role in supporting the participants’ educational pursuits, from funding college tuition to purchasing mission trips, cars, and preparing for adult life.
A Plea for Community Support: Rallying Local Businesses and Sponsors
The success of the Weber Junior Livestock Association hinges on community involvement and support. The new association now relies completely on the backing from local businesses to thrive. The program invites businesses to actively participate by attending the auctions, bidding on the animals, and contributing to the future success of these young individuals by becoming sponsors of the program.
“We are immensely grateful for the support we receive from our sponsors, including Weber County, who supported some of the coveted buckles awarded to the kids at the fair. However, we need the wider community to recognize the importance of investing in our youth and become sponsors,” emphasizes Craig Jensen, the program’s President.
As the Weber County Junior Livestock Association continues to expand its horizons, the plea for community involvement grows louder. The transformative impact on the lives of these young participants is undeniable, making this initiative not just a program but a beacon of hope for the future leaders of Weber County. The tireless efforts of Bryan Douglas, Craig Jensen, and their dedicated team of volunteers reflect a commitment to nurturing a generation that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the community and our economy.
For more information about becoming a sponsor please contact Craig Jensen at 801-698-7180 and crjensen82@yahoo.com.