Whether you received your first FFA jacket this year or your jacket is well-worn and represents memories to last a lifetime, you’ll want to keep it in the best condition possible. Here’s what to do.
1. Skip the washing machine.
To keep your official FFA jacket looking its best, it should only be dry-cleaned. To prevent damaging your jacket, avoid putting it in the dryer. If it gets wet, hang it up to air-dry.
2. Get a perfect fit.
Taking a few measurements will ensure you order the correct size jacket for a comfortable fit. For help with the measuring process, visit the FFA Jacket Measuring Tools web page, which includes step-by-step videos, a sizing tool and jacket fitting guides.
3. Know how to wear it.
The FFA jacket should be worn only by members. To ensure uniformity, the jacket zipper should be fastened to the top, the collar should be turned down and the cuffs buttoned.
4. Remember the rule of three.
No more than three medals should be worn beneath the member’s name on the right-hand side of the jacket. These should represent the highest degree earned, the highest office held and the highest award earned by the member. (A single State FFA Degree charm or American FFA Degree key should be worn above the name or attached to a standard degree chain.)
5. Retire FFA jackets properly.
Corduroy is strong and can last for years. Fortunately, corduroy is also classic and never goes out of style. However, if a jacket becomes faded and worn, remove the emblems and lettering before discarding it or passing it on to a nonmember.
Giving the Gift of Blue
Each year, support from FFA corporate partner Corteva Agriscience and other generous donors helps members obtain FFA jackets through the Give the Gift of Blue program.
“Since the beginning of the program in 2014, more than 16,000 blue jackets have been gifted to FFA members in need, providing them with a sense of belonging, honor and pride,” says Lisa Barger, director of merchandise and membership services for the National FFA Organization.
To give or receive an FFA jacket of your own, visit ffa.org/giveblue/.
