08/05/2026
From National 4-H Council member to mentor, Richard Pfieff has spent a lifetime giving back.
Richard has spent over 30 years with JBS USA, supporting farmers and producers as a Fieldman, helping them navigate daily challenges and achieve success. But his impact extends far beyond his role.
A lifelong advocate for 4-H, Richard has spent decades mentoring young people and helping create opportunities for the next generation. Through a partnership between JBS Live Pork and the Des Moines County 4-H program, local youth gain hands-on experience raising pigs, learning responsibility, animal care, recordkeeping and leadership skills that will serve them for years to come.
The program continues to make a difference, providing 40 to 70 pigs annually to youth exhibitors and helping more young people participate in livestock projects. At the 2026 Des Moines County Fair, participants demonstrated the results of their hard work, with JBS project pigs earning top rate-of-gain honors.
"4-H taught me to give back to the community. It also taught me that hard work pays off," Richard shared. Those lessons continue to guide him today as he helps young people build confidence, develop leadership skills and discover opportunities for the future.
We're proud of team members like Richard who embody our values and strengthen the communities where we live and work. Learn more about the impact Richard has on 4-H in his community here: jbsfoodsgroup.com/articles/from-4-h-member-to-mentor-richard-pfieff-continues-a-tradition-of-giving-back