Fair Enough
County fairs create opportunities for the community to invest in the younger generation. I see it happen many times when I cover a 4-H auction. Some of the happiest people are those who give generously.
You might be surprised to learn how much your local ag co-op spends on the 4-H auction. Local businesses often set aside thousands of dollars in their respective budgets for the 4-H auction. I think that's one of the least understood aspects of the 4-H project. The local farm store owners, insurance agents, bankers, agribusinesses, farms and individuals partner with the 4-H program to have a successful livestock auction. These businesses don't have to be so generous, but aren't we glad they are? Many give because they were 4-H'ers themselves at one time and earned prices that were well above what the market was paying. They then put that money to good use by investing in another 4-H project or saving the money for college.
Having received generosity, these adults now want to give back. Today's 4-H'ers should not take this for granted. If you benefit from the generosity of others, shouldn't you also give back when you are able to do so? Of course, there is no rule saying businesses must have a line item in their budget for the 4-H auction. But if you live in a rural community, you will notice that many of your peers are 4-H supporters. Or you may be contacted by someone representing your township who is asking you to give. In time, you may understand that supporting young people through 4-H is a community value.
Many 4-H'ers do understand the level of generosity shown to them when they sell their livestock at the fair. Their faces may light up in amazement, or I'll hear them say "Wow." It's very reassuring to see them shake the hand of the person who purchased their steer, lamb or hog. That simple gesture is an acknowledgement that the buyer did a kind thing. Many auctions are premium-only events, in which no animals are actually sold. The bidding is for the premium that will be paid to the 4-H'er for his or her hard work. The premium is really a donation. That's why a heart-felt thank you is the appropriate response to such generosity.