National FFA Week is underway. You may notice many farm broadcasters and Ag personalities sharing photos of their days in the blue, corduroy jacket. Many schools commemorate the week with celebrations, competitions, and information about what FFA can do for students. However, as the pandemic has changed the way we do our engagements in public and in schools, many chapters are going to have to get creative.
In a way, the pandemic is creating new opportunities for outreach during National FFA Week. Instead of just engaging the students and faculty in the schools, chapters are also being encouraged to use the virtual format to reach out to the members of the community to showcase what local chapters are doing. FFA Central Region Vice President Paxton Dahmer talks about some of the options those can bring with it.
Several chapters are also engaging through the use of social media platforms. National FFA Secretary Anna Mathis is encouraging chapters to ramp up their social media presence. Reach out to members of the community who aren?t followers. Also, try to tie in with chapter alumni who can help bring more connection for the local chapters.
Southern Region Vice President Artha Jonassaint is really encouraged by the participation of former chapter members. The sea of blue jackets that flood profile pictures show how far the reach of the organization is, and how far back its roots extend. It puts the size and impact of the organization into perspective.
FFA Week runs through February 27th. Tuesday, February 23rd is Alumni Day. Thursday the 25th is a national fundraising day called ?Give FFA Day? and Friday the 26th is the day all members past and present are encouraged to wear blue in support of the organization.
You can learn more about the Iowa FFA Association through their website.
