Former 4-H'er creates program to allow all kids to show livestock

(GREENSBURG, Ind.) – A former 4-H member has created a nonprofit program to give all students the chance to show livestock. 

20-year-old Landon Swartzentruber is a North Decatur graduate who began 4-H as a fourth grader and showed animals across the country. 

He has created OPPORTUNATE LIVESTOCK to provide livestock showing to all young people, regardless of financial resources, facilities, or guidance traditionally required to participate in 4-H and other programs.

“Showing livestock is something anyone can do. It’s unlike any other sport—you don’t have to be tall, short, fit, or strong. If you’re willing to give 100% every day and strive to improve, that’s all we ask for,” Swartzentruber said. 

The Decatur County native believes livestock showing teaches lifelong lessons including work ethic, responsibility, teamwork, and networking skills. 

“It also allows them to travel, meet people across the country, and gain experiences that build character and confidence,” he added. 

OPPORTUNATE LIVESTOCK welcomes students in grades 6-12 and he said it also provides academic credit for high schoolers. 

The program currently partners with North Decatur, South Decatur, Greensburg and Waldron. 

The program will officially launch in January with 7 students already enrolled and a goal of reaching 10 by the end of December.

To join, students must complete an application for enrollment. The program operates on a monthly participation fee of $200 per animal, with each student required to show at least two show pigs per season and allowed up to five.

This fee covers only a portion of the total cost as OPPORTUNATE LIVESTOCK covers the majority of expenses to ensure every student can participate.

Each participant will receive show animals, equipment, feed, and bedding.

The nonprofit is also seeking sponsorships from local businesses and you can learn more about OPPORTUNATE LIVESTOCK by clicking here.