Located in Punta Gorda, Fla., the Charlotte Sr. FFA Chapter is home to the Tarpon Feed & Supply.
How It Began
For the last couple of years, the members of the Charlotte Sr. FFA chapter have had trouble finding show feed for the livestock projects locally. The chapter hopes to alleviate some of that strain by opening a chapter-run feed and supply store on the campus land lab.
Even though this area and Punta Gorda are agriculture-based communities, the only location where livestock items can be purchased currently is at Tractor Supply Company. The chapter members knew that, with all of the agriculture operations and livestock projects in this county, there was a need to open an easily accessible feed store for the public. Several of the students within the chapter have retail, livestock, and even feed store experience, so with the help of community members who are very supportive of the chapter and their advisor, the students began working on the details to get the store up and running. After speaking to the school administration, they decided that the land lab would be a great location, so this school year would be the start of Tarpon Feed & Supply.
From Old to New
The chapter members and supporters have created a one-of-a-kind establishment by transforming the chapter’s old ag mechanics shop and storage building into the unique Tarpon Feed & Supply. Open four days a week and managed by FFA members and a group of adults who share the chapter’s vision, the store is a fully operational feed store offering bulk orders and individual bags. The chapter’s registration as a Cargill Feed dealer and its partnership with Sullivan Supply further enhance its offerings. Additionally, the store can fulfill custom or bulk orders from various other companies or vendors, making it a comprehensive solution for all livestock needs.
Since its inception, the store has experienced significant growth, becoming a valuable platform for the chapter members to gain hands-on experience in the retail business sector. They are now proficient in inventory management, order processing, cash handling, and customer service, showcasing the store’s success in providing practical learning opportunities.
Leaving a legacy is hard, but leaving a legacy that impacts your chapter and community is even harder.
