INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 26, 2017/National FFA Organization) – Pittsfield FFA from Illinois has been named the 2017 National Premier Chapter: Building Communities winner at the 90th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis.
The National Chapter Award program recognizes outstanding FFA chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using the National Quality FFA Chapter Standards and a Program of Activities that emphasizes growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for the entire membership.
Pittsfield FFA wanted to show their respect and gratitude to community members who are serving our country. FFA members collected the names of active-duty military members in their community through social media and the local newspaper. “Heroes Among Us” signs were created for each active-duty member and hung around the town square. Signs were later added to many other streets in the community. This project sparked discussion about the military and demonstrated appreciation for the military’s service.
Chapters eligible to compete for the National Premier Chapter: Building Communities award demonstrate competency in doing innovative things or taking traditional concepts and applying a creative twist in the building communities division of the chapter’s Program of Activities. Ten three-star chapters competed in a presentation and interview process for the top honor during this year’s national convention. Pittsfield FFA received a plaque in an onstage ceremony during the convention’s second general session on Thursday, Oct. 26.
The National Chapter Award program is sponsored by John Deere.
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