The Ignacio FFA chapter has been awarded $2,602.00 as part of the Grants for Growing program. The nationwide program, sponsored by Tractor Supply Company, provides grant funds to local FFA chapters to support the development or improvement of agricultural education projects that enhance the classroom experiences for students through chapter engagement activities.
Ignacio FFA plans to utilize the funds from the grant to create a large chicken coop at the school farm. Students from the Ag. Class and a few from the school’s wood manufacturing program will work together on the building phase of the project, ultimately building a 16’ x 10’ shed that will be able to house a variety of poultry, as well as provide space for feed and supply storage. The chicken coop will be utilized by Ag students to help create Supervised Agriculture Experiences (SAEs) and potentially lead to local collaboration within the community on the sale of eggs and perhaps meat from the poultry raised.
The program provided over $900,000 to FFA chapters in 47 states. Funding is provided through consumer donations made during checkout at a Tractor Supply Company store by purchasing a $1 FFA Paper Emblem. The fundraising period aligns with National FFA Week in February.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org and on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About National FFA Foundation
The National FFA Foundation builds partnerships with industry, education, government, other foundations and individuals to secure financial resources that recognize FFA member achievements, develop student leaders and support the future of agricultural education. A separately registered nonprofit organization, the foundation is governed by a board of trustees that includes the national FFA president, educators, business leaders and individual donors. For more, visit FFA.org/Give.