4-H livestock programs and projects may seem to be about animals, but in reality they are about kids. Young people are very important to us, and we want to make sure we provide the very best educational experience that we can. 

For most, animal-related programs and projects will provide a variety of life lessons that will positively impact them for the rest of their lives, no matter what career path they choose to follow. For a few, an animal science project will lead to a career. While it is important for youth in livestock programs and projects to gain a basic understanding of selection and evaluation, animal anatomy, daily care, nutrition, reproduction and marketing, it's the learning from hands-on experience - making decisions, seeing the results and accepting responsibility for the care of a living animal - where lives of youth are changed forever.

In an effort to make sure every young person involved in a 4-H animal science program or project has the best possible learning experience, Kentucky 4-H developed and implemented the Kentucky 4-H Livestock Volunteer Certification Program. This program put in place a system of "certification" for 4-H volunteers that work with livestock programs and projects. 

In order for a county to offer livestock programs and projects through 4-H, at least one volunteer per county club/group must attend a Certification Workshop and complete specialized training. That volunteer must then continue to hone their knowledge and skills in youth development and subject matter training through annual continuing education to continue as a "Certified Volunteer." This program is a step toward providing the finest educational experience for youth that we can.