|
|
4-H Meat Goat Project - Greenville County
| Name | Danny Howard | | Situation | The 4-H Meat Goat Project was started several years ago with the help of goat producers and county agents in the surrounding counties. As the state budget became weak due to the economic hard times, funding for this youth project was discontinued. Around 200 youth are involved in this project statewide. This project grew out of the meat goat adult education program. Having such a strong educational program and excellent volunteers, an auction was created by the producers to keep the project funded and provide money for prizes, awards and ribbons. This auction is sponsored by the Upstate Goats producers, which is supported by the Greenville County Extension office agriculture program.
| | Response | In order to keep funding for this project, the Greenville County Extension office along with help from Spartanburg County Extension office supported the efforts of the volunteers through contacts, flyers, coordination and items to be auctioned. A local livestock auction barn donated their facilities, resources and auctioneer for support of the extension youth program. The Greenville County Extension coordinated the donation of items to be sold on a Saturday during April 2003. The 4-Hers and their parents cataloged items to be sold and kept records for the sale. Items sold included: Livestock, fencing materials, feed, canned & baked goods, furniture, appliances, tools, and yard sale items. Cash donations were given by businesses along with supplies to be sold. Producers also brought cash donations from businesses to help support the project. Buyers were notified of the auction through Extension newsletters, one to one contact, producers, and the auction barn. Over 23 parents and 18 4-Hers were present to assist with the auction. Their presence encouraged buyers to spend money to support the youth project. A special certificate of appreciate was given to Phil Hiott, owner and operator of Double H Livestock Barn for his support.
Goat producers in Greenville and the surrounding counties gave 150 goats to this project. Without their help there would be no youth goat project. In July 2003, 120 4-H/F.F.A. members received goats for their youth project at the Laurens County fair grounds. The money raised by the auction was used to purchase ribbons, awards, and premiums for these youth at the county fairs and final show.
| | Impact | This years' auction raised over $4,000.00 which is twice the amount raised last year. The increased success is due to the greater involvement of parents and 4-Hers.This could not have happened without the support of Extension. Money will be available for scholarships and awards at the 4-H meat goat shows. Plus the 4-Hers will have the opportunity to continue to learn the basic life skills and make the best better. |
Last update6/3/2008
This website is maintained by Kim Dillard.
|
