GALT, CA (MPG) - FFA chapters from across California recently showcased creativity, teamwork and community service through the Bayer and Luke Bryan Farm Tour “Can-Do” Patriotic Challenge. As part of the challenge, 11 California FFA chapters designed and constructed patriotic-themed displays using canned food donations to commemorate America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Following the competition, all canned goods were donated to local food banks, resulting in more than 9,000 cans, or 4.5 tons of food, being donated to communities throughout the state. The challenge highlighted the impact of agricultural education and demonstrated how FFA members are living out the organization’s motto of “Living to Serve.”

The top three chapters in this year’s competition were: First Place, Linden FFA; Second Place, Galt FFA; and Third Place, Covina FFA.

“The Can-Do Challenge was a great opportunity for our chapter to combine creativity and service,” said Jackson Bottoms, a member of Linden FFA. “We had a lot of fun building our display, and it was rewarding to know that the canned goods will help families in need. Winning first place made the experience even more memorable.”

As the first-place winner, Linden FFA received a $5,000 grant from Bayer and an exclusive meet-and-greet opportunity with country superstar and five-time Entertainer of the Year Luke Bryan at one of his upcoming Farm Tour concert locations.

 

Eleven California FFA chapters donated more than 9,000 cans to local food banks via teamwork and community service through the Bayer and Luke Bryan Farm Tour “Can-Do” Patriotic Challenge. First place winner Linden FFA chapter pictured meeting Luke Bryan at his May 16 concert in Elk Grove. Photo courtesy of California FFA

All three winning chapters will also receive 50 general admission tickets to a California stop on the tour. In addition to recognizing student creativity and leadership, the challenge made a meaningful contribution to local communities. Pacific Coast Producers, a canned-food agricultural cooperative based in Central and Northern California, donated canned goods used in Linden and Galt FFA’s displays, which will now help stock food banks in participating communities.

“We are proud of the many California FFA members who took the initiative to turn an idea into action through this year’s Can-Do Patriotic Challenge,” said Jill Sperling, State FFA Advisor and State Supervisor of Agricultural Education. “From planning their displays to working together and following through on their commitment to serve others, these students demonstrated the leadership, responsibility, and teamwork that are at the heart of agricultural education and FFA.”

California FFA extends its congratulations to all participating chapters and appreciation to Bayer for providing meaningful opportunities that connect agricultural education with leadership development and community service. For more information about California FFA, visit calaged.org.