Through the National FFA Organization’s Give the Gift of Blue program, donors have helped provide more than 18,000 blue jackets to members in need. In turn, recipients are reminded that they are a part of something bigger than themselves, and inspired to learn, grow and serve. I caught up with the program director as well as jacket recipients who shared how the organization has impacted their FFA journeys.
A donation of any amount helps. A gift of $85 covers the cost of a single jacket and tie or scarf. Larger donations can provide multiple jackets to members across the country.
Give the Gift of Blue program director Logan Everett says this is a simple way to help FFA members achieve their goals. “As someone who works with a lot of different grant programs and service programs where we’re also donor-funded, I think Give the Gift of Blue is the easiest way for FFA members, alumni and corporate partners to have a personal impact in the lives of individual students,” Everett says.
New Blue Jacket Recipients
Everett says that some students will go their whole lives without wearing their own jacket. Two recipients blue jacket recipients from this year were given their jackets by their FFA advisor.
South Carolina FFA member Giana Hilts says her jacket gift was completely unexpected. “My advisor surprised us with our jackets this year, which is really awesome and it was a big surprise,” she says. “It was really cool.”
“Well, it felt like putting on a nice pair of shoes,” says South Carolina FFA member Jocelyn Salinas, who also received a surprise jacket from her advisor. “It was great. Still amazing.”
Despite offering agricultural classes, Hilts says her high school did not have an FFA program until this year. She now serves as the chapter president. “It’s just great to experience getting the jacket and finally having an FFA program at our school because now I can finally feel that power and that unity before I leave,” she says.
Ways to Give
Give FFA Day, which is observed during National FFA Week, is a great time to support the National FFA Organization and ag education. Nearly $160,000 was donated to the Give the Gift of Blue program by corporate partners and individuals on Give FFA Day in 2023.
Giving is something that can happen any time of year, however.
Everett says she advises anyone to donate, especially FFA alumni. “Whether it’s through the Give the Gift of Blue program or even just working with your local FFA chapter, make a donation to them so that they can purchase FFA jackets locally,” Everett says.
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