Indiana’s next generation of agricultural leaders gathered in Indianapolis last month for the Innovate and Grow Conference, a high-energy event hosted by Indiana Farm Bureau. The conference brought together members of the Indiana Young Farmers and Ag Professionals program to spark new ideas, build connections, and explore the future of agriculture across the Hoosier State.
“This conference has been a great opportunity to bring folks together to network with some really wonderful breakout sessions,” said Kylie Wagoner the new State Young Farmers and Ag Professionals Committee Chair. “I know I attended the finances breakout session led by two of our current state committee members and it was really nice for them to be able to have a conversation with our members that have questions about what are finical lenders looking for and how they can properly prepare to go meet with a lender when they are looking for financing.”
After last year’s Young Farmers and Ag Professionals conference the committee met to set goals for the upcoming year focusing on recruitment, committee development, advocacy, and philanthropy.
Wagoner added, “One way we’ve actually worked on one of those is the philanthropy side of things. Yesterday we were able to pack over 6,000 meals for an organization that distributes meals not only here in the states but also abroad to those in need.”
Indiana has three colligate chapters for Indiana Farm Bureau located at Purdue, Vincennes, and Huntington Universities. This is a great way for college students to get involved. There is a $36 fee to become a member which includes free registration for the Young Farmers and Ag Professionals Conference and the Winter Gathering in December located in French Lick, Indiana.
“Some boards have affiliate members for high school students and others just welcome them to come and participate. A lot of counties have Young Farmer programs they can get involved in,” shared Wagoner.
If you are interested in becoming involved in Farm Bureau reach out to your County President or District Young Farmer and Ag Professional Representative at infarmbureau.org.
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