‘Adopt A Calf Program’ Boosts Youth Learning and Farm Experience

By Andi Anderson

The Adopt-a-Calf program at Dordt University is creating valuable learning opportunities for both college students and young participants. Fourteen calves are currently being raised at the Agriculture Stewardship Center (ASC) through a joint effort between Dordt’s Animal Science program and local 4-H youth.

The calves were donated by Tri-Cross Dairy of Viborg, South Dakota, and arrived on March 11 as one-day-old animals. They are being cared for at The Spronk Animal Science Education Center, where Animal Science students gain practical, hands-on experience in managing and raising livestock.

The calves will remain at the facility until the Sioux County Youth Fair in July. At the fair, 4-H participants will showcase the animals during the bottle-bucket calf show. This allows young participants to experience livestock exhibition even if they do not own animals.

The program was initiated by Mike Schouten, ASC steward at Dordt, who aimed to provide opportunities for youth who face financial or geographic challenges in accessing livestock. By taking care of feeding and housing the calves, Dordt reduces the burden on families and makes participation easier.

In addition to benefiting 4-H members, the program is an important part of Dordt’s Animal Science education. Students not only learn animal care but also develop mentorship skills by guiding younger participants. The opening of The Spronk Animal Science Education Center has further strengthened this initiative by providing advanced facilities.

Dr. Holly DeVries, chair of the agriculture department at Dordt, highlighted the program’s impact. “This opportunity is truly a win-win for everyone involved,” says Dr. Holly DeVries, chair of the agriculture department at Dordt. “Our agriculture students not only gain experience raising calves, but they also have the opportunity to mentor a younger 4-H student throughout the process.”

The program has also strengthened relationships among students and families. “It has been exciting to watch the enthusiasm and connections that have developed in the barn over the past several months,” adds DeVries. “The bonding has occurred not only between students and calves, but also among the students themselves.”

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