The Bexar County Junior Livestock Show and Auction, Inc. (BCJLS or the Show) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports local youth in agriculture. The BCJLS supports students in Bexar County FFA and 4-H programs. The students in these programs raise and care for their animals for 4-10 months throughout the year and create projects for our arts show.

FFA and 4-H teach students great life skills. Students learn about responsibility, money management, and a strong American work ethic. Over 90% of these students attend college after high school graduation. The BCJLS was established in 1963 for to provide 4-H and FFA youth of Bexar County (greater San Antonio) Texas an opportunity to show their livestock projects in a competitive arena.

Initially, the Show paid premium dollars to the champions. Later, the Board of Directors incorporated the “Auction of Champions” to provide additional financial incentives for the exhibitors’ investment of time, talents, and finances. Over the years, thousands of young men and women have passed their animals across the BCJLS auction block to realize the beginnings of a career in agriculture, or to acquire part of the finances required for their education.

Each exhibitor whose project performs well enough is allowed to sell that project in the Auction of Champions. An average of 400 students have sold their animals in the auction yearly. In 2000, the Board of Directors changed the show to a premium auction, which allows the students to take their animals to other stock shows. The money donated through the auction goes to the students and is tax deductible.

This organization is a success because of the continued commitment of the many business leaders, school districts staff, parents, and students who believe in this program. Many business leaders recognize the lifelong values that FFA and 4-H teach our students. The Board of Directors continues to plot the course set by its founders “to provide our youth every opportunity to grow and succeed in this fast-paced, competitive world”. Our youth of today will serve as our leaders tomorrow.

The Bexar County Junior Livestock Show continues to promote and inspire responsibility, leadership, sportsmanship and education by providing a venue for youth to exhibit their agriculture projects. We are dedicated to cultivating the youth of Bexar County into leaders for future generations. Join with us!