ASHLAND — The Ashland County Fair will expand opportunities for exhibitors this fall with the debut of Your Greatest Showman, an all-inclusive livestock show designed for individuals with special needs and disabilities.
The event will take place Sept. 26 at 10 a.m. during the 175th Ashland County Fair.
Allie Heckman, a junior fair board member and chair for the event, said she got the idea for an all-inclusive livestock show from her cousin, Austin, who has special needs.
“His county fair has a similar event, and seeing his pictures and hearing about how meaningful the event was, it inspired me to try to bring something like that to the Ashland County Fair,” Heckman said.
“I have shown goats through 4-H and FFA at our fair for five years and have wanted to be a special needs teacher since second grade, so this seemed like an exciting way to combine two things I’m really passionate about.”
Each participant will be paired with a livestock mentor who will teach them the basics of exhibiting an animal. No previous livestock experience or animal ownership is required.
Participants will have the opportunity to attend several practice sessions throughout the summer to become familiar with different livestock species before the show, with the first practice scheduled for July 19.
“I think this show is important because everyone deserves the chance to be part of the fair and have a moment to shine,” Heckman said.
“After years of being involved in the special needs ministry in Ashland, I have witnessed how beautiful it is to provide a chance for every participant to feel proud of themselves, confident, and excited that they got to be part of something special. That is my hope for each person that joins us for Your Greatest Showman.”
Registration is now open, and participation is free. Organizers will work with each participant to provide any accommodations needed.
Participants can register at tinyurl.com/YourGreatestShowman or through the Ashland Your Greatest Showman Facebook page.
Registration is open through July 15. Questions can be directed to Junior Fair Board advisor Audra Schoen at ashlandgreatestshowman@gmail.com.