FFA chapters to compete for connections with local farmers

FFA chapters in seven states will soon begin efforts to make new and stronger connections with their local farmers and earn their share of more than $225,000 in incentives provided by Monsanto.

The 2011 FFA Chapter Challenge encourages chapters in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Georgia and Alabama to reach out to community farmers, learn about their operations, engage them and bond them with FFA.

Confirmation of each participating chapter’s connection with local farmers must be registered by farmers online at www.FFAChapterChallenge.com or by calling the National FFA Organization at 1-800-293-2387.

The deadline for farmers to confirm connections is May 1. FFA chapter winners will be announced by May 15.

The top 125 FFA chapters that make the most connections with farmers will receive a $1,500 certificate of credit from the National FFA Organization. Chapters can use the credit throughout the year to buy FFA member jackets, merchandise, awards, banquet supplies and more. Chapters can also use the funds to pay member costs associated with attending the Washington Leadership Conference and national FFA convention.

The chapter that makes the most connections will be awarded an all-expenses-paid trip for six FFA members and one adult advisor to October’s National FFA Convention in Indianapolis.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for students to reach out to people in their community who make their living in agriculture and forge strong, meaningful relationships,” said Rob Cooper, executive director of the National FFA Foundation.

The foundation secures funding through corporate sponsorships and private contributions for FFA and agriculture education in general.

For more about the 2011 FFA Chapter Challenge, visit www.FFAChapterChallenge.com.

Tags: country, ffa