The Ascension Jr. Livestock Association was formed by 4-H members enrolled in the livestock project in Ascension Parish, along with the help of many parents and volunteers. The livestock association is made up of 4-H members, their parents, and interested 4-H volunteer leaders. The AJLA as it is often referred to has its own volunteer board members. These board members are advised by the 4-H agent and they make decisions and help run the Ascension Parish 4-H Livestock Show and other functions throughout the year. The AJLA also funds the awards for the Parish Livestock Show as well as a buyers appreciation dinner held in conjunction with the Ascension Parish Livestock Show’s awards banquet.
These wonderful volunteers are dedicated to the development of the youth of Ascension Parish through livestock projects and agriculture. The Ascension Parish 4-H Livestock Show is open to the public and held annually on the third week of January at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales, Louisiana. One of the major fundraisers conducted by the AJLA is the River Classic Jr. Beef show held in August. The Ascension Parish 4-H Livestock program is a very strong one because of the support it receives from the AJLA.
In the fall of 2008, Ascension Parish will be launching a parish wide youth livestock project club. This livestock club will be open to any 4-Her in Ascension Parish, regardless of animal ownership. The program’s goals and emphasis will be:
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Further knowledge of 4-Hers in project area.
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Create a sense of belonging among members/livestock exhibitors.
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Allow youth to take leadership positions and explore possible career opportunities pertaining to project area.
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Allow area youth to have a greater appreciation and understanding of the agriculture industry.
For more information on the Ascension Jr. 4-H Livestock Association, please contact Jamie Templet (4-H Agent) at jtemplet@agcenter.lsu.edu or 225-621-5799.