The 2025 Kiwanis Livestock Project is officially underway following a successful animal distribution day at the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fairgrounds. Dozens of local youth gathered to receive the animals they will raise, care for, and ultimately showcase during this year’s fair, scheduled for October 13–18.
The project provides pigs, goats, lambs, and cows to participating students, many of whom may not otherwise have the means to purchase and maintain a show animal. In return, participants commit to raising their animals with proper care, showing them at least twice—including during the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair, and submitting detailed project books tracking expenses, feed, and animal health.
“This hands-on experience helps children develop valuable skills and fosters a strong sense of responsibility and accomplishment,” said Andrea May, who helps oversee the project. “We recently had a fantastic day distributing animals to the participants. Seeing the excitement and enthusiasm on the children’s faces was truly heartwarming. For many of these kids, this program provides a unique opportunity they might not otherwise have.”
This year’s animal recipients were chosen through a detailed application process open to FFA, 4-H, and pre-club members across the 15-county fair coverage area. Students listed their preferred species, explained their interest in agriculture, and outlined care plans, while also answering animal-specific knowledge questions and submitting letters of recommendation. Applications closed in March, and the animals were distributed on May 3.
Those present at the distribution included Bobby Turner, Lisa Turner, Leslie Pease, Andrea May, and Fair Chair John Banter, who have each played ongoing roles in helping the project grow.
Livestock Show Schedule at the 2025 Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair
Participants will display the results of their hard work during the livestock shows at this year’s fair:
- Hog Show: Tuesday, October 14 at 6:00 PM (Check-in from 1:00–4:00 PM)
- Goat Show: Wednesday, October 15 at 6:00 PM (Check-in from 1:00–4:00 PM)
- Lamb Show: Thursday, October 16 at 6:00 PM (Check-in from 1:00–4:00 PM)
- Cow Show: Saturday, October 18 at 1:00 PM (Check-in from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM)
These events are free and open to the public, offering the community a chance to support local youth and see firsthand the dedication involved in livestock showing.
Senior Showmanship Scholarship Also Available
High school seniors participating in this year’s livestock shows are eligible to apply for the Senior Showmanship Scholarship, which recognizes excellence in agriculture, academics, and community involvement. The application requires counselor verification, transcripts, recommendation letters, and a completed form. A due date will be announced later this year, and recipients will be recognized during the fair.
A Tradition That Builds Futures
The Livestock Project is just one part of the broader mission of the Statesboro Kiwanis Club, which has hosted the Kiwanis Ogeechee Fair since 1963. What started as a grassroots effort to bring a carnival and livestock show to Bulloch County has grown into a regional event spanning 15 counties and touching hundreds of lives each year. The club’s ongoing investment in youth agriculture reflects its founding goal: building a better community by giving young people the tools and opportunities to succeed.
