How Farm Bureau Supports Youth in Agriculture

Today’s young people are tomorrow's farmers, ranchers and leaders in the ag industry. At Farm Bureau Financial Services, we know how important it is to foster a love for agriculture from a young age. And we also know that there’s a lot more that goes into farming and ranching than a love of the land. 

Successful farmers and ranchers need to know how to run businesses, work with people from all walks of life and solve problems. They need to keep up with advances in technology while they stay grounded in an industry that’s been around for centuries. 

That’s why Farm Bureau supports organizations like 4-H and the National FFA Organization and the work they do to help empower youth in agriculture and support young people who may not have access to a wide range of opportunities. 

As a member-based organization, when you’re insured with Farm Bureau Financial Services, you’re also a member of your state and local county Farm Bureau organization. Our roots began over 85 years ago with a passion for protecting farmers and ranchers from the unexpected. Many Farm Bureau members can trace their participation in agricultural organizations back to their younger days in 4-H or FFA. County and state Farm Bureaus donate time and money to these organizations, helping to shape the next generation of leaders, thinkers and creators. 

4-H: Reaching Young People Throughout the U.S. 

The 4-H name comes from its focus on head, heart, hands and health. While many people associate 4-H with agriculture, the organization also offers programs in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), healthy living, civic engagement and more. It’s an organization that’s reaching nearly 6 million young people in every county and parish in the U.S.  

In 4-H, young people learn about the challenges we will all face in the future, like climate disruptions, food insecurity, scarce access to water and labor shortages. They get hands-on learning opportunities, mentorship and education in research and technology, and they can apply for scholarships and internships that can give them the financial support and experience they need to succeed. 

Farm Bureau shares the vision of 4-H and recognizes that building diverse youth leadership can help us all prosper in the future. Farm Bureau partners with 4-H in many communities to share their enthusiasm and expertise and to provide financial support. 

FFA: Preparing Future Leaders in Agriculture and Beyond 

FFA, which was originally called the Future Farmers of America, has been bringing agricultural programs to young people for almost 100 years. It doesn’t just focus on farming and ranching. FFA benefits middle and high school students as they prepare to be leaders in science, business and technology as they relate to agriculture. 

Farm Bureau and FFA work together to strengthen leadership skills, communities and agriculture. Typically, each state hosts an annual convention to get FFA chapters together. For example, Wisconsin Farm Bureau sponsors an event, FFA Farm Forum, which is a learning and leadership conference that attracts 300 high school juniors every year. Additionally, the National FFA convention is held every fall, bringing together youth from across the country. 

Learn More About How Farm Bureau Supports Youth 

The reach of Farm Bureau, 4-H and FFA extends throughout communities. Locally, your area might have programs that help kids learn about pollinators, soil health, drones, community service, healthy habits and more. Contact your local Farm Bureau agent  to learn more about the ways we’re all working together to help the youth in your community prepare for the future.