By Andi Anderson
The Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has awarded its inaugural Ag Literacy Challenge Grants to 10 FFA chapters and 4-H clubs across the state.
These grants provide funding for new or enhanced ag literacy programs, focusing on educating communities about agriculture’s importance. Programs will run from October 2024 to August 2025.
Grant applicants had to propose programs that fell under one of three categories: informing consumers about Indiana agriculture, fostering collaboration between youth and adults in agriculture, or promoting agricultural practices and policies.
Among the winning projects, DeKalb High School FFA will create a Garden Bed Service Project, where high school students build garden beds and teach elementary students about plant care.
Elkhart County 4-H will focus on bilingual students, developing gardens and teaching business skills by selling produce at local farmers' markets.
Other winners include Franklin County 4-H’s POULT Program, which educates youth about turkey production, and Madison Consolidated High School FFA, which will distribute agriculture-focused coloring books to elementary schools.
The grants, up to $1,000 each, aim to increase agricultural awareness and support community education. After their programs are completed, grant recipients must present their results to their local county Farm Bureau.
INFB President Randy Kron emphasized the importance of these programs, saying they showcase Indiana agriculture and provide youth with leadership development opportunities.
The Ag Literacy Challenge Grant is one of many ways the Indiana Farm Bureau supports youth in agriculture, alongside scholarships, leadership events, and competitions.
Photo Credit: indiana-farm-bureau
Categories: Indiana, Education