Southern Guilford FFA members gather with Principal Dr. Boone, an FFA Alumnus (center), after giving him his first FFA jacket.
To kick off National FFA Week, the Southern Guilford FFA Chapter in North Carolina hosted an array of dynamic events aimed at promoting enthusiasm among FFA members and the community. Designed to honor agricultural education, leadership and community service, the chapter’s jam-packed schedule intended to make this weeklong celebration unforgettable.
When planning festivities, the chapter’s officers were drawn toward tradition and innovation. They stuck to many popular events from the past year but also implemented new and engaging activities.
“We always have a weeklong service project; this year was a canned food drive,” says Southern Guilford FFA Reporter Ashleigh Perras. “We strive to make the week memorable and fun for our membership. Our largest priority is to highlight the role of the organization in our chapter.”
By rallying members to contribute to this initiative, the chapter underlines the importance of leadership and hones in on the National FFA Organization’s core value of Living to Serve. Reinforcing its commitment to leadership, the chapter also focused on strengthening relationships with influential figures.
“One special moment this week was giving our principal his own FFA jacket since he never had one as a member in high school,” says Southern Guilford FFA President Emily Harris. “We hope having a strong leader like him promoting FFA to the entire school will inspire more students to take agriculture classes and join the chapter.”
Of course, no celebration is complete without food — a guaranteed way to bring people together. “Let’s be real — most teenagers, including myself, are definitely food motivated,” Harris says.
Southern Guilford FFA began its week with a hot dog lunch, followed by an ice cream social. This event fostered fellowship in the community and ignited excitement for activities later in the week.
Southern Guilford FFA members gather at their chapter’s popular hot dog lunch event.
In addition to its beloved annual bonfire event (pictured below), the chapter introduced a new activity this year to get members involved in celebrating FFA Week: a scavenger hunt.
“It’s a new twist that’s going to be super fun and more interactive for everyone,” Harris says. “On the last day of National FFA Week, the officers will take on the role of their stations, allowing members to find them and take a picture for a chance to win. These events keep members excited and engaged in the chapter.”
Members gather for a group photo at the annual bonfire event hosted by Southern Guilford FFA.
From Perras’ perspective, FFA Week is all about building community. “This could be within chapters, regions or states,” she says. “Building a community or doing things to strengthen the ones around you is such a valuable piece of FFA. Agriculture raises leaders, and FFA Week is another amazing way to get them involved.”
