The National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) has announced the 2026 Angus Impact Project, a service initiative supporting the Colon Cancer Foundation through a fundraising competition known as Penny Wars. Led by NJAA Vice Chairman Anne Dameron, this year’s effort carries personal significance as it honors her late mother, Jennifer, who passed away from colon cancer.
The Angus Impact Project serves as the NJAA’s official service outreach, engaging junior members in meaningful acts of community support at state and national levels. Past efforts have included school supply drives and assembling care‑kits for Ronald McDonald House Charities. The program inspires service and camaraderie among juniors, often strengthened by friendly competition among state associations.
“In the past, the competitive element has really brought states together,” said Anne Dameron, National Junior Angus Association Vice Chairman and leader of this year’s Angus Impact Project.
Ambitious teamwork was evident during the 2024 National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), when juniors delivered the largest donation received by the Ronald McDonald House of Madison, Wisconsin. The 2026 project focuses on raising funds and awareness for colon cancer research, early detection and advocacy, with the hope of capturing the same driven spirit of members in honor of one of their own.
“A little over a year ago, my mom passed away from the disease,” she said. “Cancer is something so many people unfortunately deal with or know someone who has battled.”
Although the service event promises friendly competition and fun, Anne emphasizes the importance of the mission behind it. She recalls the support she received from the Angus family following her mother’s passing, including junior board members wearing blue colon cancer awareness ribbons in Louisville during the 2024 North American.
“That meant so much to me and my family,” she said. “It shows how the Angus family shows up for each other. This year’s Angus Impact mission brings that full circle.”
Colon cancer remains one of the deadliest but most preventable cancers in the United States. Early screenings dramatically improve survival, and awareness plays a critical role in encouraging individuals to seek preventive care.
“My family has tried to stay positive and do what we can, so others don’t have to face the same situation,” Anne said. “This project’s goal is to help advocate for screenings or bring awareness to someone who needs it.”
In preparation for the July event, junior members are encouraged to collect spare change from barns, vehicles and their homes. At the show, Penny Wars will take center stage as jars labeled with the names of well‑known Angus staff, regional managers and National Junior Angus Association Board members such as Casey Jentz, Ty Murray, Blake Pillars and Caitlyn Brandt, invite contributions throughout the week. The individual whose jar collects the greatest amount will be recognized during closing ceremonies and receive a pie to the face on stage.
As juniors prepare for NJAS, Anne hopes everyone, whether contributing a handful of coins or a full jar, recognizes the impact their participation can make.
“Angus Impact is bigger than one person or one board,” she said. “It’s about coming together for something larger than ourselves.”
For more information about the 2026 Angus Impact Project or NJAA programs, visit www.njaa.info.
