Real Support for Real Young People
Impact isn't just a number—it's the confidence in a young person's eyes when their hard work is recognized, the relief a family feels when financial barriers come down, and the strength of a community that shows up for its youth.
How We Measure What Matters
At Sweet Savanna Hog Wild Inc., we know that the most important outcomes can't always be captured in a spreadsheet. But we also believe in transparency and accountability.
Our impact shows up in multiple ways: the dollars we invest at youth livestock auctions, the number of young people we encourage through awards and sponsorships, the volunteer hours our community contributes, and—most importantly—the stories of youth who've been supported along the way.
Here's what that impact looks like in practice.
By the Numbers
5+
Years of Community-Led Support
Since our founding, we've hosted fundraising events and supported youth programs every single year, building trust and consistency in Guadalupe County and beyond.
150+
Youth Projects Encouraged
From auction purchases to awards, we've provided financial support and recognition to more than 150 youth livestock and homemaker projects at county shows and related events.
800+
Volunteer Hours Contributed
Community members have donated hundreds of hours to organize events, serve meals, manage auctions, and ensure that every dollar raised goes where it's needed most.
100%
Volunteer-Driven Organization
Every board member, event organizer, and supporter is a volunteer. We have no paid staff, which means more of every donation goes directly to supporting local youth.
12+
Annual Fundraising Events
We host multiple events throughout the year, from large-scale dinners and dances to smaller community gatherings, all designed to bring people together and raise funds.
Stories from the Ring & the Kitchen
Numbers tell part of the story. But the real impact is in the lives we touch. Here are just a few examples of how our support makes a difference.
A First-Time Exhibitor Finds Her Confidence
A young girl from a family new to the Guadalupe County Youth Livestock & Homemakers Show wasn't sure she could afford to participate. Her parents wanted to support her interest in agriculture, but the costs—feed, equipment, entry fees—added up quickly.
Through our network of supporters, we were able to provide financial assistance that covered a portion of her project costs. At the auction, we purchased her hog and added an additional sponsor bid to recognize her hard work.
What mattered most wasn't just the money—it was the message. She learned that her community believed in her, and that gave her the confidence to keep going. She's now in her third year of showing livestock and has become a mentor to other first-time exhibitors.
A Family Feels Less Alone
A single mother reached out to us after hearing about our mission at a community event. Her son had been working on a livestock project for months, but unexpected medical bills had strained the family's budget.
She didn't know if they'd be able to finish the project or attend the county show. We connected her with resources, covered some of the remaining costs, and made sure her son had what he needed to participate.
At the show, when her son's project was recognized and purchased, she said it was the first time in a long time that she felt like her community had her back. That's the kind of impact we're here to create.
A Volunteer Finds Meaning in Service
One of our regular volunteers didn't know Savanna personally, but he was moved by her story and the mission of the nonprofit. He started by helping set up tables at our first fundraising dinner.
Now, several years later, he's a key organizer for our events, a mentor to youth exhibitors, and a donor himself. He says that being part of Sweet Savanna Hog Wild Inc. has given him a sense of purpose and connection to his community that he didn't have before.
Impact isn't just about the people we serve—it's also about the people who serve alongside us and discover their own capacity for generosity.
"Our daughter worked so hard on her project, and when Sweet Savanna Hog Wild showed up at the auction, it wasn't just about the money—it was about someone seeing her effort and saying, 'This matters.' That meant everything to us."
— Parent of a youth exhibitor
What Your Support Makes Possible
When you donate to Sweet Savanna Hog Wild Inc., volunteer at our events, or sponsor a youth project, here's what you're helping us accomplish.
At the County Youth Show
- We purchase livestock and projects at auction, ensuring young people receive fair compensation for their hard work.
- We sponsor add-on bids that increase the total amount a youth receives, sometimes making the difference between breaking even and making a profit.
- We provide awards for showmanship, sportsmanship, and dedication—recognizing qualities that matter beyond ribbons and trophies.
- We help cover entry fees and costs for families who might otherwise be unable to participate.
- We show up in person, cheering on every exhibitor and creating an atmosphere of encouragement.
Throughout the Year
- We host fundraising events that bring the community together, creating opportunities for connection and generosity.
- We provide mentorship and resources to youth and families new to livestock programs.
- We build partnerships with local businesses and sponsors who share our commitment to youth development.
- We maintain transparency about our finances and impact, so donors know exactly where their support goes.
- We honor Savanna's memory by living out her values every single day.
Looking Ahead
- We're expanding our reach to support more youth across Guadalupe County and surrounding communities.
- We're exploring new ways to support youth development beyond livestock programs, including academic and leadership opportunities.
- We're building a sustainable model that ensures this work continues for years to come.
- We're inviting more community members to get involved, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
Be Part of the Impact
Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every word of encouragement adds to the positive impact we're making in the lives of local youth.
If you're inspired by what you've read here, we invite you to explore ways to get involved or reach out to learn more.
Together, we're keeping Savanna's spirit alive—and creating opportunities for the next generation.