As the premier junior livestock exhibitor association in the state, the California Junior Livestock Association is making a difference in the lives of youth involved in the raising and exhibiting of livestock projects. CJLA is a non-profit organization founded in 2000, formed to recognize the efforts of junior livestock exhibitors and reward them for their accomplishments. CJLA has provided an opportunity for young people to participate in sanctioned livestock shows for eight years.
Young people may enter the association at age 9 and continue showing until age 19 for most species, and 21 for heifer showmen. The association has age categories to even the playing field between beef, sheep, swine and goat exhibitors giving them a fair opportunity to compete.
Thirty-six shows are currently sanctioned and provide a place for over 350 CJLA exhibitors to compete. A show is classified as a CJLA sanctioned show after applying to the organization and paying a fee for its first year sanction, and secondary fee for each year there after. Each calendar year CJLA tracks how each member ranks at sanctioned shows.
CJLA members show at sanctioned shows throughout the year to accumulate points, competing to win the highest amount of points each year. At the end of the year, the exhibitor with the most points in their division and age group receives recognition and awards. To achieve a competitive point count, members must place well in their classes at the sanctioned shows. For placing first through eighth a member is awarded a corresponding point value. The points for an exhibitor’s top eight shows then accumulate to create their total score for the year.
There are several categories in which members can win. Divisions are first divided by specie and then each specie division is segmented into age groups. In February of each year, the awards banquet is held where members are recognized for their accomplishments.
The annual banquet includes an awards reception, dinner, and time with family and friends to review the year’s accomplishments. Approximately seven hundred people attend each year and enjoy themselves while the Association recognizes its members for their undertakings. Several awards are given including: computers, school supplies, savings bonds and livestock equipment. All of the awards given have significance in an effort to promote education, and the member’s future endeavors and careers. As a result, members are the primary beneficiaries of any sponsorship gained by the end of year banquet and silent auction.
