Canadian Valley poultry club leader wins national award for inspiring youth

Milk Products, maker of Sav-A-Caf products, is excited to announce that Richard Peters, Noble, Oklahoma, is the first place winner of the 2018 Youth Impact Award.

“It is inspiring to learn about the dedication and passion our agriculture leaders put into working with youth,” says Stefanie Fieck, house brands manager for Milk Products. “We know the future of agriculture is in great hands thanks to the efforts of these incredible mentors.”

The Sav-A-Caf Youth Impact Award annually recognizes mentors who inspire youth to be passionate about animal agriculture.

Peters has a passion for poultry, fueling his mission to educate youth. As a local poultry club leader, he emphasizes the importance of good health practices, strict biosecurity standards and high-quality breeding. Peters also works with youth to host poultry shows and events and coordinates an annual chick giveaway.

“I take a hands-on approach to all of our events and activities,” says Peters. “Along with the excitement of showing their birds, the juniors are taught showmanship skills which involves public speaking and pushes them to think on their feet.”

Peters has expanded his poultry club from membership in two counties to now reach statewide. He’s also helped grow the club’s poultry show to youth participation from 15 states, in addition to including more than 600 chicks in the club’s annual giveaway.

“My biggest reward comes from seeing kids become successful,” says Peters. “And realizing that hard work, determination and good sound reasoning will almost always yield positive results.”

Peters’ poultry program will receive a $2,000 award and a Sav-A-Chick product package for winning the Sav-A-Caf Youth Impact Award. He plans to use the award to update equipment, improve show awards and grow the annual chick giveaway.