Dozens of youth with disabilities entered the livestock ring on February 19 to take part in the Mighty Showmanship event in advance of the Georgia Junior National Livestock Show. Every participant was declared a champion as they partnered with 4-H and FFA mentors to experience the excitement of a swine show.

This special opportunity was organized by Pulaski County 4-H’er Addy Winchester and supported by 4-H and FFA leaders and volunteers. The show was open to school-aged youth beginning in kindergarten and extending to age 21.

“This is a show that enables all young people to participate in and reap the benefits of showing livestock,” said Winchester. “It’s not about your disability, it’s about your ability. We want everyone to feel at home in the ring.”

Each “mighty showman” was assisted by up to four youth mentors, depending on their physical needs. These volunteer mentors are members of Georgia 4-H and FFA who participated in the Georgia Junior National Livestock Show at the Georgia National Fairgrounds. The hogs in the ring for the Mighty Showmanship event belonged to these 4-H and FFA members; the mighty showman participants spent time in the barn with their mentors getting familiar with the hogs prior to the show.

The event received contributions from numerous community partners, including belts and buckles donated for each participant. The belt buckles helped reinforce that every Mighty Showman was a champion. Volunteer judges also worked the ring to add to the authentic feel of this unique opportunity.

Hundreds of parents and supporters watched from the stands as the heartwarming show unfolded. “We will continue to spread the word about this event and make the experience available to as many youth as possible,” Winchester added.

Find a full album of photos from the event by clicking the following link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/georgia4-h/albums/72177720324395339

Photos and Story by Josie Smith