Five mentees, with the help of their mentors, competed in the No-Limit Livestock Show at the Ottawa County Fair on July 20. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

BY SHERI TRUSTY

When OSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Educator Molly Avers worked in a school, she recognized a need to open more doors to the world for students with special needs.

“When I was a teacher, it always seemed like there were not enough opportunities for students with disabilities,” Avers said.

Judge Shane Pierson, left, asks Kara Kingery, right, questions about the goat she was showing at the No-Limit Livestock Show on July 20. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

During the Ottawa County Fair, Avers created those opportunities.

On July 20, Avers hosted the 2nd Annual No-Limit Livestock Show that paired youth mentors with mentees with special needs. The mentors taught their mentees how to show an animal, including how to respond to questions and how to handle the livestock, which included rabbits, goats and a sheep.

Nick Fish smiles as judge Shane Pierson talks to him about the rabbit he is showing at the No-Limits Livestock Show. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

“This was a way for them to feel included,” Avers said. “And it’s to show the mentees that kids with disabilities may have struggles, but they can still do this. It’s just obstacles to overcome. It’s eye-opening for them. They realize the kids may need a little extra help, but they can do this.”

Mentee Faith Bloomer, 11, was excited about showing a rabbit.

Mentor Erin Sutkus, left, talks to mentee Faith Bloomer, right, about the questions she will be asked during judging. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

“This is the first time I’ve showed a rabbit,” Bloomer said. “My mom’s friend, Heidi, said I should do this. Plus, I like rabbits.”

Bloomer’s mentee, Erin Sutkus, 15, enjoyed the show as much as Bloomer. She’s been showing since she was young enough for the Pee-Wee Show.

Sawyer Mullen, center, receives the “Knock-Out Knowledge” award. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

“I just like helping others and giving back,” Sutkus said. “With the Pee-Wees, I help as much as I can.”

Genoa High School Special Education Teacher, Shane Pierson, served as a judge for the competition. He spoke to the crowd before the awards were presented.

“I’d like to thank Molly Avers. She’s done a fantastic job of promoting this,” Pierson said. “This is an opportunity for students that they maybe wouldn’t have otherwise. I want to thank the students for taking a chance and trying something new.”

Sawyer Mullen wears the “Knock-Out Knowledge” award he won at the No-Limit Livestock Show. (Photo by Sheri Trusty)

The following youth participated in the No-Limit Livestock Show:

• Mentor Erin Sutkus with Mentee Faith Bloomer, who won the “Stupendous Showmanship” award.
• Mentor Addy Gahler with Mentee Kara Kingery, who won the “Super Smiler” award.
• Mentor Kinsley Moore with Mentee Kenzie Shanteau, who won the “Not a Fear in the Sight” award.
• Mentor Rachael Soltis with Mentee Nick Fish, who won the “Bursting with Excitement” award.
• Mentor Griff Gahler with Mentee Sawyer Mullen, who won the “Knock-Out Knowledge” award.

Avers was proud of each one of them.

“This is my favorite day of fair week,” Avers said.