Celebrate what FFA means to communities and the world
By Ginna Young It’s likely that you know a Future Farmers of America (FFA) member, as there are one million members nationwide, and 25,938 in Wisconsin, spread across 261 chapters. Those chapters will now celebrate their organization, with FFA Week, Feb. 15-22, with activities and fun for all.
Some may be curious about how they can be part of FFA.
“It is easy to get involved at the local, state or national level, just by being curious and asking for more information,” said Amalia Draxler, FFA state vice president. “We are the biggest student-led organization in the country.”
By talking to a school’s agriculture teacher, a student can join and once they do, the doors that open for them are invaluable. The best part? You don’t have to have an agricultural background.
“FFA is for everyone,” said Draxler. “Students have the opportunity to learn more about agriculture through the organization. Or, they can choose to focus more on the leadership aspect of the organization.”
Included in what FFA provides, are teamwork, values, science, plants, animals, food, music, art and so much more.
“Every student can find something that they will enjoy, no matter their background,” said Draxler. It’s not all work and no play, as some events chapters hold are donkey basketball, pancake breakfasts, sledding parties, youth educational days and service projects.
“Personally, everything I know about leadership and professional development, is from FFA,” said Draxler. “We learn about event planning, networking, teamwork, public speaking, career skills, finance, applications, resumes and more. This organization truly helps students prepare for their future.”
One program the FFA offers, is Proficiency Awards, where students fill out an application with information about work they do, listing what skills they’ve learned, areas where they have grown, problems they have solved and they have to keep track of all financial records.
“Having your own business as a teenager can give you a competitive edge,” said Draxler, adding that FFA also offers scholarships that can help students pay for college. “I found a community in FFA, who helped me be comfortable and confident in myself as a high schooler.”
Students can join FFA as young as fifth grade, all the way up to their senior year, where they become the next generation of leaders who will change the world.
“Even if students don’t end up in an agricultural pathway, they can learn important skills that can help them excel in any career path,” said Draxler. “Get involved today, and see where it will take you.”
Amalia Draxler
