Nutrients for Life Foundation Announces Winners of the Florida FFA “Helping Communities Grow” Chapter Recognition Program – Bronson, Roosevelt and Eisenhower Chapters Take Top Honors
ORLANDO, FL – Nutrients for Life Foundation and Florida FFA announced winners of the “Helping Communities Grow” chapter recognition program today at the 82nd Florida FFA State Convention & Leadership Conference. First place was awarded to Bronson High School in Bronson, Fla., second place to Roosevelt Academy in Lake Wales, and third place to Eisenhower Middle School in Gibsonton, Fla.
“I truly believe there’s no better way to learn than through hands-on activities,” says Nutrients for Life Foundation Executive Director Harriet Wegmeyer. “These students have not only learned about the importance of fertilizer in their communities, but they have inspired others around them to learn as well.”
Students in each participating FFA chapter developed community-based programs based upon the Nutrients for Life Foundation curriculum, Nourishing the Planet in the 21st Century. The top three chapters were awarded the following grants: First place- $6,000, Second place- $3,000 and third place- $1,000. Chapters who did not place but entered projects received $300 mini-grants for their participation.
The Helping Communities Grow chapter recognition program encouraged FFA students to help the public become better informed about plant nutrients, fertilizers and related agricultural issues through educational, community building and hands?on activities. During the project, students gained skills in leadership, public speaking, team building and community awareness while increasing knowledge of soil science and agricultural issues.
Florida FFA Executive Director Ronnie Simmons appreciates how the hands-on activities foster a greater agricultural understanding among FFA students and play up the competitive nature of schools as they try to be best in the state. “Helping students grow in their personal development while learning agronomics makes this a win-win for all involved,” Simmons said. “In agriculture and FFA, we understand and appreciate the power of our industry partnerships. This program is a great example of the impact that
our partnerships can have on our programs.”
Florida has 320 FFA chapters throughout the state in 225 high schools and 95 middle schools.
For more information, visit www.nutrientsforlife.org or call (800) 962-9065.