Summer is a time for Achievement
Brent Vorpagel, Feed Department Manager
email@example.com (507) 380-2068
Summer is flying by and so are the local county fairs. When we think of county fairs many images come to mind. The first thing that comes to mind for me is always the livestock shows followed closely by the food. For others it might be the carnival rides or the grandstand shows. As you venture to your local county fair and The Minnesota State Fair I encourage you to look deeper at what is going on around you. It can be very subtle and often times is missed but all around you young people are learning life lessons that will help to shape the people they will become.
As an alumnus of both 4-H and FFA I can testify to the impact these organizations have of young people’s lives. These organizations offer area youth endless opportunities including public speaking, leadership development and real world experiences. Today’s members of 4-H and FFA are building skills that will be a strong foundation for them as they work their way thru life. Today’s youth are exposed to many more opportunities and experiences that will influence their decisions on post-secondary education and careers. Organizations like 4-H and FFA allow kids to live those experiences out in their own unique way to help shape their future. It is important that as we walk thru the livestock barns and view the exhibits at our local fairs, we take a moment to reflect on the caliber of these projects and the countless hours of preparation that have been put into them; not only by the exhibitor themselves, but also the support they have received from their parents, their project leaders, instructors, and community mentors.
I refer you to a really neat video put out by the National 4-H Council titled “Need Us”. It sums up my sentiments here today that “every child has the potential to be a true leader. Help us empower kids with the skills they need to lead in life.” Visit http://4-h.org/get-involved/grow-true-leaders/ and watch the 4-H PSA video.
So, as you enjoy visiting the local fairs this summer make sure to notice the young people and the life lessons they are learning right before our very eyes. All American Co-op Progressive Ag Center is proud to support and sponsor many events and actives within the 4-H and FFA organizations. We recognize the value of investing in these organizations as they are the future members and employees of our Co-op.