The American Gelbvieh Junior Association (AGJA) was formed in 1974 to aid in leadership development and personal growth of Gelbvieh youth and to insure the future success of the breed. While the Association's mission has not changed over the last twenty years, its membership has grown tremendously, now boasting over 700 active members. The AGJA provides opportunities for members to compete in various contests on a national level, learn more about the breed and the beef industry, and generate friendships with other young breeders from across the country. The AGJA forms a sound foundation for the future of the Gelbvieh breed, while promoting fun and friendship through participation in many activities. Read on to learn how you can become a part of one of the fastest growing, most successful beef industry organizations for youth in the United States.

Membership
Membership in the AGJA is open to youth from birth through age 21. Age is determined as of January 1 of each calendar year. The one-time $10 fee entitles you to registration and other American Gelbvieh Association services at adult-member rates as a Junior Member of the AGA. The AGJA charges a small annual dues fee of $10. Further, when you turn 22, you can convert your junior membership to an adult membership for a reduced rate. Your AGJA membership not only entitles you to many AGA services at member rates, but also opens the door for your participation in all the activities sponsored by the AGJA!

Activities
JUNIOR CLASSIC
The Junior Classic held in the summer of each year, is the highlight of the year for many AGJA members. At this event young Gelbvieh breeders gather to have fun, make new friends and compete. You may bring animals to show in the national junior heifer and steer shows. But you don't have to bring cattle to the Junior Classic to join in on the fun. Other exciting events open to all juniors include the sales talk, judging contest, ad and poster contests, and the showmanship contest. You can also compete for overall awards too. You accumulate points by competing in the numerous contests and striving for the All-Around and Rookie-of-the-Year awards. There are also awards for states and teams in the State Challenge Cup and the team fitting contest. Teams also square off in the popular Gelbvieh Beef Bowl. During the classic, the AGJA holds its annual meeting and election of members to the AGJA board of directors. This action-packed event is capped off with an awards banquet to recognize everyone who participated in the Classic. Every summer, the Junior Classic travels to a new area, allowing members from different areas of the U.S. to participate. Contact the AGA office for information about upcoming Junior Classic events.

REGIONAL SHOWS
The AGJA sponsors two regional shows during the summer as well. An Eastern and Western Regional are scheduled to give those of you that live a long distance from the Junior Classic location a chance to participate in AGJA programs. The regional shows also help you hone your skills as you prepare for competition at the Junior Classic. Contact the American Gelbvieh Association for more details on the dates and location of regional shows for the upcoming summer.

STATE ACTIVITIES
Your AGJA membership also opens the door for your involvement in your state Gelbvieh junior association. The state associations plan many activities throughout the year including tours, field days, and shows. To learn more about your state association, or for assistance in starting a junior association in your state, contact the AGJA staff advisor.

SCHOLARSHIPS
The AGJA is dedicated to the education of its members and is proud to provide assistance to two members who are continuing their education. Each year at the Junior Classic, the AGJA awards two deserving members, who are graduating high school seniors through age 21, with $500 scholarships to be used at a two- or four-year college or university. Applications are due June 1 of each year and are available by contacting the AGA.

AMBASSADORS
The ambassador program, sponsored by the American Gelbvieh Junior Association, encourages youth involvement in breed promotion and competitive events. A junior and senior ambassador are chosen at the Junior Classic. Applicants are judged on a required application, oral interview, group presentation and their involvement and conduct during the Classic. The Junior and Senior Ambassador are awarded a savings bond and also receive financial assistance to represent the Gelbvieh breed at agricultural events nationwide.

AGJA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Nine AGJA members are elected to the board of directors to serve two-year terms as leaders of the organization. These members conduct and direct the activities of the association. Additionally, these members have the opportunity to further develop their leadership skills through intensive leadership training and practice. Director candidates complete a required application, answer questions from the membership, and give a short presentation at the Classic. Directors are elected by a vote of the AGJA membership. Contact the AGA to receive an application or click here to download the application in pdf format.