Member Service Representative Kerington Armstrong paid forward $500 to Clinton High School’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter.
Shayne Faulkner, an advisor for Clinton High School’s chapter, said, “Our club relies heavily on sponsors and donors to create the many opportunities for our students. This money will help to send us on trips and competitions with other high school FFA chapters from across the state. Every dollar makes a big difference, and we are so grateful for your support.”
The chapter raises money through raffles and plant sales, has hosted regional swine shows, and students have the opportunity to attend FFA camps.
Nationwide, there are 9,235 local FFA chapters comprised of over 1 million students.
According to ffa.org, “Future Farmers of America” was founded by a group of young farmers in 1928. Their mission was to prepare future generations for the challenges of feeding a growing population. They taught us that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting – it’s a science, it’s a business and it’s an art.”
The program models itself on the Three Components of Agricultural Education:
- Classroom/Laboratory instruction
- Supervised Agricultural Experience programs
- Student leadership organizations
Kerrington said, “FFA is more than just farming. It helps students develop leadership, communication, and career skills. These programs prepare students for careers in agriculture, science, technology, business, and much more! Supporting a local chapter will help fund scholarships or cover the cost for students to participate in competitions, educational trips such as state conventions, and hands-on learning opportunities.
To learn more, visit ffa.org, and follow the Clinton High School chapter on Facebook.
The Pay It Forward program began in 2015. Every Laurens Electric Cooperative employee is entered into a random drawing to receive $500 to pay forward in any way they choose. Each month a new name is drawn, and the employee then has one month to apply the funds toward their own act of kindness.
This initiative is budget-neutral; the funds will come from Laurens Electric’s charity events, which employee volunteers make possible.
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