The Franklin County Fair just wrapped up, but the smiles, accomplishments, and camaraderie will linger for years.
Mollard Consulting is proud to support the Franklin County Agricultural Society, which runs the Fair, because they provide such a wonderful week of home-grown, in-person community fun every year.
We’re prouder still knowing the lasting impact that their year-round work has on kids – from the littlest 4-H member who showed her first rabbit to the teenager learning about governance through his year of service on the Junior Fair board. While agriculture is a central part of the Fair and remains a key part of Franklin County despite all its growth and development, the most important cultivation that happens is not in the soil, it’s in the teaching, mentoring, and cheering that countless caring adults provide to the young people at the Fair.
The Burke Building is the biggest barn, which houses a show ring and bleachers as well as the competitors and their pigs, cows, rabbits, chickens, and ducks — anyone who participates keeps their animals here for the full run of the Fair.
The first thing visitors notice is the kids own the place. There are many sets of siblings, some with parents, but many without — all moving around with an obvious sense of comfort, agency, and confidence. They clearly feel at home even as they’re unfailingly friendly and welcoming to visitors. If your little grandson would really like to pet a live chicken for the first time, all you have to do is ask.
The energy is palpable, and the impact is undeniable.
Beyond the Fair, the opportunities to grow leaders at the fairgrounds span the other 11 months of the year, with youth programs, activities, and events offered through 4-H, Scouting America, Future Farmers of America, and more.
Of all the boards we have worked with in more than 23 years, the Franklin County Agricultural Society’s Junior Fair board is the first time we’ve seen a board entirely composed of teenagers — and their engagement and decision-making rivals that of all-adult boards. This doesn’t happen by accident. It is the intended outcome of the careful, steadfast role-modeling, guidance, and support from everyone on the Franklin County Agricultural Society, as their life’s work is to grow leaders. What a joy to witness.
Were you a member of 4-H growing up, or do you have memories of youth leadership development to share — at the Fair or elsewhere? Share your memories below. We can’t wait to hear even more stories of young people growing into leadership.
