Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Observed on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving — Dec. 1 this year — it has grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate and celebrate generosity. We asked the National FFA Officers to share what cause or causes matter most to them.
Ministry is a cause that has always been central to my life. I’ve had the chance to watch my grandfather, Doug Doster, live that cause out in his life since I was a young kid. For this Giving Tuesday, I plan on giving to my home church in Athens, Ga., Beech Haven Baptist Church. Beech Haven does an excellent job of serving our community, and I value the mission and vision behind what the church does in Athens and abroad.
– Doster Harper, National FFA President
I grew up in a small community that values serving others, so giving back has been a priority for me. Two causes that mean a lot to me are Feeding America and the American Cancer Society. As agriculturalists we know the importance of food, and that it affects development, cognition and so much more. Another cause close to my heart is finding a cure for cancer and supporting families with loved ones who are battling cancer. Many of my loved ones have fought the disease, and that’s how I’ve come to see the importance of organizations that support cancer research and care.
– Anna Mathis, National FFA Secretary
What better time to give generously than soon after acknowledging the elements of our lives that we are thankful for? This Giving Tuesday, I plan on being mindful of childhood food insecurity. This problem, which is present nationwide, impacts learning, social development and more. We have the power to help eliminate the implications of this growing problem. On this Giving Tuesday, I plan to give to organizations that work toward eliminating childhood food insecurity, allowing children across our nation to learn, socialize and grow without wondering if or when there will be food on the table.
– Paxton Dahmer, Central Region Vice President
Generosity comes in many forms. Whether it’s contributing time, energy or resources, it’s more meaningful to give than to receive. I’m grateful for the many people who have invested in me, and Giving Tuesday is such a good way to celebrate and give back! The causes that mean most to me are those that help individuals become all that they can be. I’ll be focusing on two main causes this Giving Tuesday: the FFA Foundation giving campaign in my home state of Illinois and my church’s community outreach programs.
– Miriam Hoffman, Eastern Region Vice President
As the son of two immigrants, I have experienced and learned so much that I can use to help others succeed in our country. My parents, classmates and the students I met as a California FFA state officer have made me passionate about advocacy for DREAMers (those granted temporary residency by the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act) and DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students. As a member of the National FFA Officer Team, I hope to demonstrate a drive to make students feel a sense of belonging regardless of citizenship status. There is action that is required and youth who need support, therefore I am excited to be a part of this support system this Giving Tuesday.
– David Lopez, Western Region Vice President
My fondest memories – graduations, weddings, birthdays and holidays — were made even more special because of the food we shared at those gatherings. As we approach the holiday season, I can’t help but think about the individuals and communities who won’t have access to food during their holiday celebrations. This Giving Tuesday, I am so excited to be supporting efforts that combat food insecurity in my hometown of Okeechobee, Fla., by donating to my high school’s Backpack Program, an initiative that gives food-insecure, elementary-age students six meals every weekend when they no longer have access to the meals given at school.
– Artha Jonassaint, Southern Region Vice President
Make It Count!
This #GivingTuesday, the National FFA Organization will also celebrate the power of joining together to give, and that can make all the difference. Consider choosing FFA as your nonprofit on Tuesday, Dec. 1, and share your support on social media. FFA.org/Donate
