San Joaquin County Junior Show and Auction Council

The San Joaquin County Junior Show and Auction Council is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the agricultural projects of local youth. Its primary mission is to provide a platform for dedicated FFA and 4-H members to exhibit their vocational and livestock projects.

Background and History

San Joaquin County has a rich agricultural history, with youth exhibiting their projects at the county fair for over 150 years. However, the county fair closed temporarily in 2014 due to declining attendance and revenue. In response, a group of concerned individuals formed the San Joaquin County Junior Show and Auction Council to ensure that local youth could continue to showcase their projects. The council established an annual event called AgFest, which has grown in popularity since its inception in 2014.

AgFest and Other Activities

AgFest is held annually at the San Joaquin County Fairgrounds and features competitions in various livestock categories, including beef, swine, sheep, goats, dairy, rabbits, turkeys, poultry, cavy, and dogs. Additionally, there are horticulture, vocational agriculture projects, and floral exhibits. The event also includes entertainment such as local bands, movie nights, and a Tractor Pull. A key highlight of AgFest is the livestock auction, where the best market animals are sold to support the future endeavors of the exhibitors.

The council also organizes a Farm to Fork Dinner, which serves as the primary fundraising event for its scholarship program. This dinner features activities like a silent auction, a 50:50 raffle, and a dessert auction to raise funds for the Farm to Fork Youth Scholarships.

Scholarship Programs

The organization offers two main scholarship programs:

• Farm to Fork Scholarships: These scholarships are aimed at outgoing seniors and are supported by funds raised during the Farm to Fork Dinner.
• Ag Education Scholarships: These scholarships allow for the sponsorship of individual exhibitors pursuing further agricultural education.

Volunteer and Community Support

AgFest is managed by an all-volunteer group, with planning activities happening year-round. The event relies heavily on sponsorship from local businesses and individuals passionate about agriculture, reflecting the strong community support for youth development in the agricultural sector.

Mission and Impact

The San Joaquin County Junior Show and Auction Council plays a crucial role in promoting agricultural education and fostering opportunities for young people in the region. By providing a platform for vocational and livestock projects, the council helps shape the future careers of these individuals and contributes to the sustainability of local agriculture.

Ratings and Governance

The organization has received a 2/4 Star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its efforts in supporting education and community development through its youth-focused agricultural programs. It operates under an executive board with various committee chairs who oversee different aspects of its operations and events.