National FFA week is coming to a close. This is a big week for the organization. It’s one you will find a number of companies expressing their support, alumni sharing old photos and telling stories of their time in FFA and of course, current members speaking up and out about agriculture.
If you ask me, FFA is not only about kids learning about the industry but being innovative and challenged. It’s setting them up with tools and resources to either continue in agriculture or be able to advocate for it past high school.
Starting in 1948, the National FFA Board of Directors designated a weeklong tradition to recognize George Washington’s example and legacy as a leader and farmer. For the past 73 years, FFA members across the country have taken part in agricultural, leadership and service-based activities during National FFA Week.
“National FFA Week is a significant event that really showcases the heart of our organization,” says Christine White, chief program officer for the National FFA Organization. “Local chapters use this as an opportunity to highlight program success, recognize community supporters and amplify the mission of the organization.”
This year, more than 700,000 FFA members will spend the week of Feb. 20-27 developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. They will do so in creative and innovative ways. Whether volunteering to clean up the local fairgrounds or throwing a citywide party to celebrate the 1732 birth of our first president, there is no limit to how this week can be recognized.
The point is, this week isn’t just about the FFA organization, it’s about cultivating young minds and sparking their interest at a young age. Without that encouragement, agriculture could become more obsolete and with farmers comprising 2% of the population, that’s concerning.
What is encouraging though, is that there are more than 50,000 blue corduroy jackets are manufactured every year.
FFA is not the only organization with means to cultivate young agriculturalist. There are so many organizations that so many farmers, ranchers and class leaders were once part of. Once you join FFA you’re part of FFA forever.
