2010 Western Region: Caroline Luiz

Farms: Hay and Raises Cattle
Ft. Jones, CA

"Agriculture is my life. I think it’s the best job that anyone can have – even though I have another job to help support it. I screamed with excitement when I heard that I had been selected as Monsanto’s America’s Farmers Farm Mom for the West!" — Caroline Luiz

The backbone of her family’s hay and cattle operation, Caroline Luiz is the bookkeeper, rides summer range, harvests hay, and is the irrigator, fence mender and everything in between. Her two daughters were/are very active in 4-H, FFA, sports and rodeo. She transports them to events and volunteers as the community leader of the local 4-H club along with being the beef and dairy project leader. She serves as secretary of our local community rodeo grounds, accepting entries and helping to maintain the facilities. Caroline is a parent booster for the FFA chapter, helping with many of the fundraisers to support the traveling teams and officers. She’s an active member of the Junior Livestock Auction Committee that works tirelessly to maintain a livestock show for youth at our county fair. She’s a member of the local Cattlewomen’s Association and serves on several annual committees. Did I also mention that Caroline is an instructional aide for one of the local elementary schools? The job started as a way to gain additional funds to support the family and provide insurance, but now she does it just as much to make a difference in the lives of all the children she works with. She puts in long hours for her family and the youth in the community. No job is too big or too small. This is a value that Caroline has shared with both of her daughters, who also donate many hours back to their community. (nominated by Jacki Zediker)