Unified Showing, a program dedicated to empowering youth with special needs through livestock, is making a notable impact in the agricultural community.
Founded by Allison Walbrecht, the organization pairs youth with special needs with buddies who ensure the safety of the youth showman and lamb. The initiative aims to provide opportunities and build confidence in youth who might not otherwise engage in agricultural activities.
“I grew up showing cattle and fell in love with it,” Walbrecht said. “I wanted to pass something on to a community that might have lacked the opportunity to be involved in agriculture the same way I was.”
Over the past five years, Unified Showing has expanded from a modest start with just three participants to a program now active in four counties, including Lancaster and Gage.
“We started in the winter, planning how to make this work,” Walbrecht said. “Our team worked hard to bring everything together, finding showmen and buddies to participate and ensuring weekly practices were productive and enjoyable.”
The choice of lambs as the featured livestock was aimed at ensuring safety and manageability for the participants.
Unified Showing’s impact extends beyond just livestock showing. The program fosters meaningful relationships among participants. Walbrecht recounted success stories, like that of Josh, who found joy and confidence through his involvement with the program. Another participant, DJ, has formed lasting friendships with his buddies.
The organization has seen significant growth, now boasting close to 50 participants.
