Photo courtesy of Mesa County Tri River Extension
4-H and FFA Programs Shine at Mesa County Fair
As preparations are underway for the annual Mesa County Fair next week, we at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce are proud to highlight the profound and enduring impact of the Mesa County 4-H and FFA programs. These programs not only preserve our agricultural heritage but also play a crucial role in cultivating the next generation of leaders across a diverse spectrum of disciplines.
Throughout Mesa County’s history, leaders in business, agriculture, and community service have emerged from the ranks of local 4-H alumni, including our CEO, Candace Carnahan, and Chair of the Board, Kelly Johnston. Their journey through 4-H exemplifies how these programs instill essential values such as dedication, responsibility, and service—a testament to their transformative power.
In today’s competitive job market, employers consistently seek candidates who not only possess technical skills but also exhibit qualities like resilience, teamwork, and innovative thinking. The Mesa County 4-H and FFA programs excel in fostering these qualities by offering hands-on experiences in agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, and beyond. Participants learn practical skills that prepare them for diverse career pathways while reinforcing Mesa County’s legacy as an agricultural community.
The impact of 4-H involvement on positive youth development is significant. Youth engaged in 4-H are more likely to develop critical life skills such as project management, accountability, and self-confidence—skills that are essential for success in any field.
Moreover, the National 4-H Council highlights compelling statistics: 4-H members are four times more likely to give back to their communities, twice as likely to make healthier choices, and twice as likely to engage in STEM activities compared to their peers. These outcomes reflect the comprehensive approach of 4-H in nurturing well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society.
Further emphasizing the program’s impact, Colorado State University reports that Colorado 4-H, delivered by CSU Extension, reaches over 106,000 youth in Colorado annually. These programs help youth become confident, independent, resilient, and compassionate leaders. Colorado 4-H participants learn valuable leadership skills through hands-on projects in areas such as health, science, agriculture, and citizenship, all supported and mentored by a statewide network of over 10,000 volunteers.
The success stories from 4-H alumni are powerful testaments to the program’s impact. Wayne Allard, retired United States Senator from Colorado, shared, “My project and leadership experiences in 4-H prepared me to be successful in veterinary medicine, the Colorado State Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, and the U.S. Senate.” Similarly, Tony Frank, President of Colorado State University, reflected, “As secretary of my 4-H club, I learned that the lowest-ranked office usually has the hardest job. As treasurer, I learned it’s a special responsibility to handle other people’s money. As vice-president, I learned teamwork. As president, I learned that one person can do a little, but a team can do a lot. In so many ways, 4-H set the foundation for my career and my attitude toward public service.”
Beyond the fundamental skills and values imparted, these programs also foster innovation and adaptive thinking. By encouraging participants to explore new ideas and approaches, 4-H and FFA prepare youth to tackle emerging challenges while respecting and preserving traditional practices that define Mesa County’s agricultural identity.
The importance of community support for these programs cannot be overstated. By investing in and supporting 4-H and FFA, we ensure the continuation of these vital initiatives that shape our future leaders. Parents are encouraged to explore enrolling their children in these programs, providing them with opportunities to develop essential skills and build a strong foundation for their futures.
Supporting 4-H and FFA programs means investing in the future of Mesa County. It means fostering a generation that understands the value of hard work, innovation, and community service. It means ensuring that our agricultural legacy continues while embracing new ideas and technologies that will drive our community forward.
As we come together to celebrate the Mesa County Fair, let us recognize and commend the dedication of these future leaders who embody the values of curiosity, dedication, and passion. They are not merely participants in a fair; they are the architects of Mesa County’s future, poised to lead with integrity, innovation, and a profound commitment to their communities.
As members of the Grand Junction community, it is our collective responsibility to ensure these programs thrive. By supporting 4-H and FFA, we are making a direct investment in the future success of our youth and, by extension, our community. Let’s encourage more families to get involved, participate, and help perpetuate these life-changing opportunities for generations to come.
To learn more about these programs, contact the Mesa County Tri River Extension office: tra.extension.colostate.edu.
Long-Standing Tradition of Business Support at Mesa County Fair
The annual 4-H and FFA livestock sale at the Mesa County Fair stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between local businesses and youth development programs. This event, a cornerstone of our community, showcases the dedication and hard work of young participants who have invested significant time and effort into raising their livestock. For decades, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has been a steadfast supporter of the 4-H and FFA livestock sale, donating both time and resources to assist with the facilitation, accounting, and distribution of sales transactions.
The preparation for this event begins long before the auction day. Much like small business owners, these young entrepreneurs must manage timelines, budgets, responsibilities, and accountability to bring their livestock projects to fruition. Participants engage with local businesses, presenting their projects and sharing the dedication and care that have gone into raising their animals. This interaction not only helps secure supportive auction bids but also builds valuable communication and marketing skills.
The Mesa County livestock sale has seen impressive growth since 2007, increasing from $376,900 to over $933,000 as of last year. This remarkable rise reflects the strong community support and the commitment of local businesses and individuals. In 2023, 214 different animals were sold, averaging $4,362 per animal, including sales and add-ons. For the past five years, the sale has averaged $760,000 with approximately 201 animals sold each year.
The generous contributions of over 300 businesses and individuals last year were crucial, with 585 buyers registered in the system. At a total sale of $933,000 in 2023, spread across 312 buyers, the average contribution per buyer was $2,990.38. Most of the income these kids earn is used to cover their expenses for purchasing animals, feed, and other costs. Any remaining income often helps fund their college or trade school education. Participants are required to complete detailed record books for each project, outlining their total income and expenses, instilling a strong sense of financial responsibility.
Without the generous support of the business community, many of these kids would not be able to participate in this program. This year, the tradition continues on Saturday, July 20th. We invite you to join us at the Mesa County Fair to witness the culmination of these young individuals’ efforts and to consider supporting their future endeavors. By participating in the auction, you contribute to the growth and development of our community’s youth, reinforcing the strong bond between local businesses and impactful programs.
To learn more about the event and how you can get involved, visit: mesacountyfair.com/4-h-ffa. Your support makes a difference and helps sustain the long-standing tradition of excellence and community spirit in Mesa County.