Youth Programs

Youth Program Ambassador

The American Poultry Association is pleased to introduce our newly selected Youth Program Ambassador for the APA Annual Meet – Jake Wilson from Indiana.

Jake brings an impressive combination of enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication to youth engagement—qualities that align closely with the mission of the APA. His passion for poultry breeding and exhibition, paired with a strong commitment to supporting young exhibitors, makes him an outstanding choice to lead our APA Youth Activities Program.

In this role, Jake will oversee the development and coordination of hands-on activities, educational sessions, and interactive experiences designed to inspire and empower the next generation of poultry enthusiasts. His leadership will help cultivate a welcoming and energetic environment where young participants can learn, grow, and discover their place within the world of poultry exhibitions.

We invite all members to join us to congratulate Jake as he steps into this important position. We look forward to the fresh ideas and excitement he will bring to the APA’s Annual Meets each year. We also extend our sincere appreciation to the many qualified candidates who expressed interest in serving—your dedication to youth involvement and strengthens our community.

Upcoming Activities

Showmanship Essay Contest and Awards Sponsored by Pen Pals Feed

We are excited to announce the Poultry Showmanship Essay Contest—an opportunity for youth participants to share their passion for poultry and the dedication they bring to the show hall. This contest invites young exhibitors to reflect on their experiences, showcase their knowledge, and celebrate the hard work that goes into preparing birds for competition.

Participants will write an essay describing their love for showing poultry and the steps they take to get their birds ready for competition. From feeding routines to grooming techniques, we want to hear your story!

Awards

Contests/Workshops (To be held at the APA Annual Meet) Sponsored by Pen Pals Feed

• Judging Contest  
  Participants evaluate animals (or photos of animals) based on breed standards, conformation, and overall quality.
  
  
• Quiz Bowl  

  A contest or quiz on animal nutrition such as balanced diets, feed types, and feeding schedules: 

  • Breed ID to include varieties – participants identify poultry breeds and their specific varieties or color patterns from photos provided and breed standard references.
    
    

• Photo Contest/Educational Display  
  • Photo Contest: Participants submit photos of animals, farm life, or educational themes.
  • Educational Display: Posters or tri-fold boards explaining a concept (e.g., disease prevention, genetics, sustainability)
    
    
• Written Test on DQ's  

  A knowledge-based test covering:

  • Disqualifications (DQ’s) and faults in show animals
  • Anatomy, diseases, breeding, and care
  • Breed standards and terminology
    
    
• Workshop on Showmanship  

  These sessions teach participants how to properly present their animals in the show, including:

  • Knowledge of breed to include parts of the specimen
  • Grooming and handling techniques
  • Attire and professionalism
  • Animal control and positioning
    
    
• Workshop on Showing Poultry  
  • How to fill out your entry form – what to include
  • How to prepare your bird for an upcoming show
  • Transportation examples for your bird
  • What to expect at a show – how the show is laid out – questions to ask show staff and/or judges

Contest & Workshop Awards

The American Poultry Association is proud to support youth education and involvement in Standard-Bred Poultry through our partnership with the Youth Exhibition Poultry Association (Y.E.P.A.).

Y.E.P.A. is dedicated to helping young poultry enthusiasts learn, grow, and participate in the poultry fancy through education, showmanship, leadership, and hands-on experience. Their programs help youth build knowledge in breed selection, poultry care, exhibition, sportsmanship, and the responsible stewardship of Standard-Bred Poultry. By working together, the APA and Y.E.P.A. help encourage the next generation of breeders, exhibitors, judges, club leaders, and lifelong poultry fanciers.

Learn more about Y.E.P.A.
Visit the Youth Exhibition Poultry Association