Congratulations to Carmindy Ferwerda for being a chosen recipient of the Security State Bank Junior Herdsman project. As a chosen participant, Carmindy will receive five bred heifers to start her own cattle herd. Security State Bank began the Junior Herdsman project in 2013 and has since awarded over 40 recipients with more than 200 bred heifers. The projectis away to encourage young people to become involved in agriculture and provide an opportunity for them to create their own herd.

Carmindy is an eighth grader at Avon School and the daughter of Randy & Angie Ferwerda who farm in the Avon area. An active member of the Avon Sweet Clovers 4-H Club for six years, Carmindy has held positions of Vice President, Secretary, and Flag Bearer. Carmindy has also exhibited at the Bon Homme Achievement Days in beef and dairy for the past six years. She participates in band, marching band, volleyball, and 4-H shooting. Carmindy is already involved in her family farm and is excited to start her own herd. She aspires to become a large animal vet one day and believes this experience will support her future goals.

Each year the bank receives impressive applications from local young people interested in agriculture. Carmindy’s respect and love for animals stood out in her application, proving she is deserving of this opportunity. In her letters of recommendation Carmindy was described as “self-motivated, highly respected, and compassionate.” Carmindy’s interest in agriculture and desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine were a few of the many reasons she was selected by the team at Security State Bank.

John Baumill er, President at Security State Bank, says the project is a great opportunity for young adults interested in agriculture. “These outstanding applicants play a pivotal role in the future of agriculture. We are happy to play a small role in supporting that future by providing them first-hand experience managing their own cow operation. At the bank we are always looking for ways to support the youth in our communities.”

Applications for the 2021-22 Junior Herdsman Project will be available beginning in October 2021. Visit your nearest Security State Bank branch to receive an application and submit by December 1,2021. Visit banksecuritystate. com for more information about branch locations.

About the Security State Bank Junior Herdsman Program

Security State Bank selects two 7th or 8th grade recipients from each branch location to participate in the Junior Herdsman project each year. Each recipient receives five bred heifers to use until June of their senior year. Throughout the project each participant will track and submit accurate records of expenses and income as well as provide a summary of activities annually. At the conclusion of the term, recipients will return the equal value of the cattle.