Eric Sawatzke, an agriculture education instructor and FFA advisor at West Central Area Schools (WCA) in Barrett, Minnesota, received an unexpected call last fall: a promise of $10,000. This generous donation came courtesy of ACH Seeds, based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, as part of its Homegrown Giving giveback program. Among just six selected organizations nationwide, WCA Schools FFA stood out for its commitment to agricultural education and community support.
The Homegrown Giving program reflects ACH Seeds’ dedication to nurturing the communities sugarbeet growers call home. In 2023, the company distributed $60,000 in donations to deserving organizations nationwide dedicated to fostering positive changes in their communities.
“I knew there was a root of support that hadn’t been tapped before,” shared Sawatzke. “The Homegrown Giving award is another testament to the support this agricultural community has provided our FFA chapter and ag education program. We are thankful for the opportunity ACH Seeds has provided us.”
The funds helped facilitate expansions within the WCA Agriculture Education Department and FFA chapter, enabling them to produce and donate wholesome food to local residents in need. Investments in equipment for food processing, storage and handling were made, along with curriculum enhancements for the school’s agriculture program to include food science education.
Do you know an organization deserving of the Homegrown Giving award? In just a few simple steps, you have the power to make a $10,000 difference in your hometown. Visit achseeds.com to submit nominations by May 31, 2024. Eligible organizations must operate within one of ACH Seed’s six growing regions, detailed on the website.
Nominations will be evaluated based on alignment with ACH Seeds’ values, potential benefit to the local community and the award’s impact on the organization. Recipients of the $10,000 award in each region will be determined by a panel comprised of local growers, industry representatives and ACH Seeds sales team members.
