Summer is right around the corner, so it is time to start thinking about continuing your FFA journey. North Carolina FFA offers several opportunities for members throughout the summer, including state convention, Washington Leadership Conference (WLC) and Rec Camp.
The North Carolina State FFA Convention will be held June 23-26. During convention, members have the opportunity to compete in a variety of Career and Leadership Development Events (CDEs/LDEs). Members can also attend sessions held by North Carolina FFA state 0fficers, university professors and a National FFA Officer.
“State convention is one of my favorite events,” says South Central Regional Parliamentarian Jonas Anderson. “Seeing all the FFA members, my friends from across the state and competing in CDEs make it an unforgettable experience for me.”
The St. Paul FFA Chapter at the 95th Annual State FFA Convention.
Another opportunity is WLC. This is a national-level conference where members can interact with more than 200 FFA members from across the country, tour Washington, D.C., and learn how to become better leaders. Each year, the North Carolina FFA Association awards scholarships to members to attend WLC. Read more and apply here.
“WLC was a week-long experience that allowed me to think outside the box, especially when thinking about how I can better serve my community,” says South Central Regional President Lily Russel. “I was also able to grow my Supervised Agricultural Experience project with a Living to Serve Plan. I cannot express the appreciation I have for the North Carolina FFA Association for giving me and so many others the opportunity to grow as leaders in a place as inspiring as the nation’s capital.”
The final opportunity that any North Carolina FFA member can attend is Rec Camp. This week-long camp is held multiple weeks throughout the summer at the North Carolina FFA Center. During their time at camp, members will work as a team with their chapter to compete in different athletic tournaments for a chance to be named the camp winner of the week. Members will also reflect each night on the lessons learned throughout the week.
“Rec Camp is personally my favorite FFA event,” says Lumberton FFA Chapter Junior Sentinel Dylan Thomas. “There are so many fun activities that I can work very closely on with my chapter. My favorite part is the sports tournaments that we play throughout the week while also getting to meet members from across the state.”
There are several different opportunities that any North Carolina FFA member can take part in. Let’s start planning now so you can spend your summer with FFA.
