Giving Summary

GIVING SUMMARY

AgCountry’s mission is to serve agriculture and rural America. A way in which we fulfill our mission is by giving back and supporting organizations, causes, and communities. Altogether, AgCountry donated more than $1.4 million throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Here is a snapshot of causes we supported in 2021:

The Next Generation

We believe in the importance of supporting the next generation of ag leaders. A few programs we focus on include organizations such as 4-H, FFA, Ag in the Classroom, and student NAMA. Whether it is local chapters or state organizations, an investment now will pay great dividends in the future.

Wyatt Lebal, AgCountry employee (right), presenting his Giving and Growing check to fire department member, Nick Quinnell, at the firehouse in Kennan, WI.

The Millenial Farmer, with AgCountry employee Kelly McDonald, speaking at a YBF breakfast that AgCountry hosted in February.

Scholarships

Our scholarship opportunities are designed to support students and young farmers and ranchers at different levels. First, we provide 42 scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are from farming families or who will pursue a career in agriculture. For those already in college, we award 10 scholarships to students who have completed 69 credits and are working towards a career in an ag-related industry. Additionally, scholarships are also given to students in the Fellows program at North Dakota State University, and for Young Beginning Farmers (YBF) for ag education training.

Agriculture Universities And Colleges

Colleges and universities play a critical role in the development of students. We believe that funding projects that provide students access to technology and facilities will allow them to gain real-world experience.

YBF

AgCountry takes pride in helping establish the next generation of farmers and ranchers. Our work with young or beginning farmers includes special financial programs and exceptions, along with scholarships to participate in farm business management classes and other educational opportunities.

Grain Bin Rescue

Farming and ranching can be dangerous. Grain bins often present some of the most dangerous conditions. Five years ago, we launched our Grain Bin Rescue Program. Through the program, AgCountry donates grain bin rescue units to area fire departments in an effort to help support rural communities and promote farm safety. The units are designed to be used specifically for grain bin entrapments. Since 2017, we have awarded 116 rescue units to area fire departments.

Commodities and Agriculture Groups

There are a lot of organizations doing great work on behalf of our industry. To show our support for their work, we both participate in and sponsor group activities. We actively work with groups like Farm Bureau, Farmers Union, Farm Rescue, AgriWomen, Common Ground, AgriGrowth Council, and Extension programs. Together, we are building a stronger industry for all of agriculture.

Mary Dusek (middle right) and Diane Hoffman (far right) maximized their Giving & Growing by choosing Lutheran Sunset Home for Giving Hearts day.

Fighting Hunger

Although our local communities may be surrounded by agriculture and food production, we know that there are people struggling against hunger. We believe it is only appropriate that we assist groups and organizations that are feeding those in need. AgCountry makes annual donations to hunger-related organizations across our 82- county marketplace.

Grain bin rescue training with equipment provided by AgCountry.

Community Support and Volunteer Efforts

Community involvement is an important way for us to further our mission of supporting the areas where we live and work. AgCountry donates to a wide range of local causes. Several offices contribute to United Way chapters via payroll deduction, which qualifies for a company match. Additionally, our volunteer program allows employees to take paid time off each year to help a cause that is important to them.

Giving and Growing

AgCountry actively works to empower our employees to make a difference. One way in which we do that is through our Giving and Growing program. This program allows each AgCountry employee to contribute $600 to a cause of their choosing. In 2021, a total of over $271,000 was given out to a wide array of recipients ranging from families in need to organizations helping to make a difference in the communities we serve.

AgCountry employee Adam Aarestad (left) presents 4 Luv of Dog Rescue with his Giving and Growing Donation.