C.O.D.Y. Name
The C.O.D.Y. name has special meaning. The Limousin cattle breed are known as the 'opportunity' breed and David Vote knew no one better to receive such 'opportunity' that local youth.
Youth now have opportunities to show registered seed stock animals is something that was not readily available to most youth because of the high cost factor for Limousin heifers.
However, the generosity of HMLBA (Heart of Missouri Limousin Breeder Assoc) breeders of donation of limsouin cattle to the youth became a perfect fit.
The C.O.D.Y. program filled two voids as it gave local youth a chance to become involved in showing livestock and it gave the HMLBA donors a way to exhibit their cattle while lending a helping hand along the way.
C.O.D.Y. History
With endorsement from the HMLBA a committee was formed and basic guidelines were formed as to best implement the donor dependant program to benefit both donors and participants. With this feat accomplished the C.O.D.Y. program was formed and ready for trial.
With a balanced start of four heifers in the inaugural year the committee members learned that our local FFA advisors were extremely instrumental and would become the driving force into he success of this program. The FFA advisors have established a successful link between youth and breeder. Their giving of time, talent, instruction and encouragement to their students has not gone unnoticed. With their assistance the C.O.D.Y. program has blossomed and in the past seven years has seen over one hundred animals being generously donated to Missouri's youth.
In 2005, Dr. Richard Mizer, the C.O.D.Y.National Director joined in the fast growing program. Dr. Mizer, a clinical physiologist felt this program was an excellent opportunity to assist youth in development of life and social skills that cold be utilized throughout adulthood. Dr. Mizer quickly developed and implemented an interview process that proved beneficial and successful. This interview process allows the C.O.D.Y. interview committee the opportunity to speak with the individual participants and evaluate the youth's readiness into the donor dependant program. Participants are asked a series of ten questions and evaluated by each committee member (see interview questions) Participants are responsible for feeding, halter breaking, and caring for the animals. The animals must be shown in two events (i.e. County, Regional, State Fair or Shows) throughout the year (see guidelines)
Local businesses saw the success of this program and began to support by donating equipment that would be necessary for participants to show and care for the animal. Seminars were scheduled prior to participants accepting the animal establishing a knowledge base and proper care of the animal.
In 2006, The C.O.D.Y. Program doubled in participation from 15 participants to 29. In 2007 we had 36 animals be placed in our youth's hands.
The C.O.D.Y. Program continues to expand and along with with growth comes the tweaking of the program to ensure this endeavor equally benefits all that are involved.
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