The top 25 car owners receive plaques for their achievements in the car show.
Many FFA members know the fun they experience when they learn about chapters other than their own. Whether it be what competitions chapters choose to compete in or what their meetings look like, many members enjoy listening to a good story told by a member from another chapter or state. This brings attention to the idea that many chapters have different forms of fundraisers.
Chapter fundraisers often require planning and work, especially on the leadership end. In light of this, North Oconee FFA in Bogart, Ga., found a fun and community-based event that not only brings in revenue for its chapter but also a way for people within the Oconee County community to experience a fun-filled day of looking at cars, eating food and socializing with friends.
In November 2024, the North Oconee FFA Chapter and its alumni chapter hosted the fourth annual Crops & Cars Show in cooperation with Dove Creek FFA and Malcom Bridge FFA. Community supporters and parents of FFA members have seen this event grow from its first year to now.
The 2024 event included a DJ, food trucks and more than 75 featured cars. Between donations, car registration fees and food sales, this fundraiser brought in a profitable $10,000.
Not only are adults and advisors happy with the outcome of this event, but so are the hardworking students who made it happen. From making phone calls to helping set up for car show day, North Oconee FFA, Dove Creek FFA and Malcom Bridge FFA dialed in and made the Crops & Cars Show a success.
“People are going to reject you, but if it’s something you’re passionate about and the future of the [agriculture program] is riding on it, you have to push even harder,” says North Oconee FFA member Elli Land in regard to planning an event like this.
With some work and dedication, an FFA chapter can raise money with the help of students, parents and community supporters. This, in turn, showcases the National FFA Organization’s mission of teaching the next generation about its values and the importance of agriculture in everyday life.
