Cultivate Magazine: Summer 2024

CELEBRATING

CELEBRATING JUNE DAIRY MONTH: THANK YOU, DAIRY FARMERS.

A true partner is defined by those they support. That’s why at Compeer Financial we’re defined by our longstanding partnership with the dairy industry. We’re proud to work alongside hard-working dairy farmers, processors and others every day to support your hopes for the future as well as your needs today. And as the dairy industry and agriculture continues to evolve, so will we, together.

LEARN MORE FROM OUR TEAM OF EXPERTS AT COMPEER.COM/DAIRY

CULTIVATE

Volume 8, Issue 2

Summer 2024

EDITORIAL STAFF

Anna Vangsness, Editor

Nora Nolden, Assistant Editor

Chastity Valvick, Assistant Editor

Karen Schieler, Contributing Writer

Terri Poburka, Designer

DIRECTORS

Ashley Ahl Merrillan, Wis.

Rod Bosma Rushmore, Minn.

Ann Broome Austin, Texas

Allyn Buhrow Ashton, Ill.

Mark Cade Westby, Wis.

Dan Erickson Alden, Minn.

Larry Fischer Sleepy Eye, Minn.

Dale Holmgren Mankato, Minn.

Sarah Jansen Menasha, Wis.

Dave Peters Manteno, Ill.

Greg Pollesch Oshkosh, Wis.

Daniel Scheider Freeport, Ill.

Tracy Travis Cambridge, Wis.

Kimberly Wedig Darlington, Wis.

Stephanie Wise Joliet, Ill.

Cultivate is a publication of Compeer Financial®, ACA. Compeer Financial exists to champion the hopes and dreams of rural America. This publication is copyrighted in its entirety. Cultivate is published by Compeer Financial, 2600 Jenny Wren Trail, PO Box 810, Sun Prairie, WI 53590.

Please send address changes to Compeer Financial, Attn: Cultivate Magazine, 2600 Jenny Wren Trail, PO Box 810, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 or call (844) 426-6733.

Compeer Financial, ACA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Lender and Provider. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. Compeer Financial is a registered trademark of Compeer Financial, ACA. ©2024 All rights reserved.

8

12

CONTENTS

18

10

20

5 Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America® 2023 Report

8 Harvesting Knowledge

Exploration Center is a Hub for Agricultural Innovation and Education

10 Stepping In Farm Rescue Offers Help When Needed the Most

12 Powered by Blue Jackets FFA Nurtures Future Agriculturalists and Leaders

14 Partners in Rural Vitality Rural Collaboration Project Unites Compeer and Foundations

18 Building a Legacy for the Future

Sawyer Cottrell Is Compeer Financial’s 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year

20 Giving Back

Kimberly Wedig shares success story and passion for agriculture

4 CEO Message

22 What’s New at Compeer?

Cultivate is brought to you by Compeer Financial. This publication’s name represents our cooperative’s commitment to growing long-term relationships with our member-owners and championing the hopes and dreams of rural America. Comments or suggestions for future issues can be sent to Compeer-CommunicationsTeam@compeer.com.

Planning for All Seasons PARTNERING TO NAVIGATE CHANGE

With spring planting behind us and the promise of summer ahead, now is a time of anticipation in agriculture. As the fields transform from the dark soils of early spring into vibrant greens, we wonder what the months ahead will bring in terms of weather patterns and market trends, while also anticipating what the fruits of this spring labor will be when fall harvest arrives.

At Compeer Financial, our priority has always been serving our clients. That’s why we recently brought together groups of clients in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin for our Client Advisory Councils, a platform to voice concerns, discuss aspirations and share feedback. These gatherings are a vital conduit for understanding how we can better serve the needs of our clients and rural America as a whole. As a cooperative, our clients’ input is invaluable, guiding us as we innovate, develop new products and refine our services to best meet our member-owners’ evolving needs.

A theme echoed by clients during these meetings is uncertainty in the agricultural economy and the potential challenges it presents. Fluctuating commodity prices and rising input costs loom large, requiring agility and adaptability. From my perspective, Compeer has built a strong financial foundation to ensure we can serve our clients especially during times of uncertainty. With market dynamics evolving, we expect to see more risk in our portfolio. By planning for it, we’re ensuring we can continue to meet our clients’ capital needs while maintaining solid credit quality. This requires thoughtful risk management, sensible financial planning and aligning our decisionmaking to ensure our cooperative is not only stable but also sustainably growing for the future.

We encourage our clients to take a similar proactive approach. Plan for the scenarios you’re concerned about, stress-test your

operation and understand your farm financials. Talk with your financial officer at Compeer to explore the breadth of financial solutions available to find what best fits for your operation and unique circumstances. We’re here as your partner to help you navigate change.

While we work through the challenges of today, it’s important to also invest in the future of agriculture and rural America. In this issue of Cultivate, we present our 2023 Fund for Rural America Report, highlighting the impact of our giving efforts. We’re investing in the future of agriculture by supporting FFA organizations in our territory (page 12) and partnering with the Food + Farm Exploration Center in Plover, Wis., which helps bridge the gap between consumers and the agricultural world through interactive education around farming and sustainable practices (page 8).

By investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders and supporting initiatives that foster innovation and sustainability, we’re laying the groundwork for a more resilient future. Moreover, we remain committed to supporting these young, beginning and small farmers through tailored products and programs. On page 18, you will meet Sawyer Cottrell, our 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year, and discover his inspiring journey as a firstgeneration farmer, local agriculture teacher and mentor to many in his community of Eureka, Ill.

While there’s not a crystal ball to show us what the future holds, Compeer remains steadfast in our dedication to empowering farmers and agribusinesses with the financial tools and resources necessary to thrive in today’s changing marketplace. We’re honored to be by your side now and in the seasons to come.

Jase Wagner President and CEO

FUND FOR RURAL AMERICA ®

YEAR IN REVIEW

Since its formation, Compeer Financial has positively impacted vitality in rural communities served by our cooperative, our partner organizations and grant recipients. In 2023, Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America provided $4.4 million in funding, impacting the lives of 4 million people, with youth being the largest beneficiaries of our giving dollars.

In 2023, 98% of Compeer’s funding had local and regional impacts, directly benefiting the communities we serve. The Fund for Rural America is committed to serving all facets of agriculture and those contributing to its future. We are proud to support these endeavors collectively.

We continued our support for FFA state associations and members across our 144-county territory in 2023, providing signature-level contributions to each FFA foundation. Additionally, we collaborated on agricultural education equipment grants with local programs and chapters, awarding over $212,000 to 60 recipients. Find details about how we support the youth involved in FFA on page 12 of this report.

In 2023, we created a new partnership with Farm Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization aiding farmers and ranchers in times of need. We are excited to continue this partnership in 2024, particularly as Farm Rescue expands its services to Wisconsin. Through supporting Farm Rescue and other organizations that directly benefit farmers, the Fund has positivity impacted the lives of over 91,000 farmers in our territory. Learn more about their admirable mission on page 10.

The opening of the Food + Farm Exploration Center was a notable event in the past year, highlighting the organization’s unique approach to educating families about the connection between agriculture and food. The Fund for Rural America Board expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit the facility, inspiring a sense of youthful wonder in all. More information about the Food + Exploration Center can be found on page 8.

We are immensely proud of how our team supported others in 2023. Our team member matching gift program was revised in 2023, with the Fund matching personal donations made by team members. This program matched nearly $50,000. Additionally, our team members supported first responders by partnering with Operation Gratitude to make paracord lanyards and notes of gratitude for almost 4,200 first responders. The organization-wide giveback program fostered collaboration and unity among our teams. In 2023, 60% of the organizations we supported reported being impacted by our team members’ time and talents beyond financial support. We are immensely proud of our team members’ dedication to giving back to their communities.

In 2023, we continued our Agriculture and Rural Initiative, our donor-advised fund, making our largest commitments to date: $1 million to The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, for its Farm to Wellness Research Fund and $1 million to the Dairy Pilot Plant and Training Center at the University of WisconsinPlatteville. Additionally, we initiated a pilot program with seven community foundations on the Rural Collaboration Project, aiming to bolster rural vitality across the Midwest. This project is part of a larger $3 million initiative supporting projects and works in rural communities that contribute to a better future.

Partnering with organizations dedicated to rural America is fundamental to our mission. From supporting FFA state associations to aiding farmers and investing in rural health, we look forward to another successful year in 2024.

John Monson, Chief Mission Officer Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Fund for Rural America

$4.4M

Amount allocated to the Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America ® in 2023

4M

More than 4 million people directly impacted

152 Scholarships awarded 105 Annual and one-time gifts given

626 Grants distributed 12

Grant programs offered annually

857,572

Youth directly impacted with $1.1M in gifts

876,344

People facing food insecurity supported 91,328 Farmers directly impacted by gifts

98% of the organizations supported have benefited from the time and talents of Compeer Financial team members (A new record!) 60% of giving made local and regional impacts

2023 IMPACT HIGHLIGHTS

The Fund focuses its giving within Compeer Financial’s territory to five areas important to our clients and rural communities:

AGRICULTURAL ADVOCACY & DEVELOPMENT

Supports programs for direct farmer impact, agriculture industry advocacy, agriculture leadership development and consumer awareness.

• 77 markets and 37 farmers impacted by Farmers Market Grants

• Supported production of AgMags and online education for Agriculture in the Classroom

• $15,000 in support for Farmer Veteran Coalitions in Compeer’s territory

• Supported the Discovery Barnyard at the Wisconsin State Fair

• Supported professional development, networking and continued education for agriculture teachers in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin

AGRICULTURE EDUCATION

Supports all levels of formal agriculture education through programs, equipment and facility support, and scholarships.

• 29 scholarships offered at eight state universities with agriculture programs

• 12,290 students experienced new equipment in agriculture classrooms

• Supported Farmdoc, a website with 1 million users in 2023 that provides analysis, tools and data to help Corn Belt farmers make more informed decisions

• Provided grants to 45 young, beginning or small farmers

COOPERATIVE INITIATIVES

Supports Compeer’s cooperative model through client education support, local giving and team member engagement activities.

• $226,408 donated directly to local causes from Compeer offices

• Matched $49,156 in personal donations from Compeer team members

• 4,193 notes of gratitude written to first responders by Compeer team members

RURAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT

Supports efforts to increase vitality of rural communities, promote economic development and enrich programs for rural residents.

• Equipped 5,338 first responders with emergency response equipment

• 22 gifts impacted organizations combating food insecurity

• $417,171 in General Use Grants to 67 organizations

• 15 Emergency Response Equipment Collaboration Grants

• 22 community building projects supported

• Supported six organizations in Minnesota focused on rural economic development and vitality

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

Supports established programs that promote youth leadership, civic engagement and wellness.

• More than $207,500 in support of FFA and 4-H State Associations

• Support for programs, organizations and education opportunities benefiting more than 80,300 youth and young adults

• Supported leadership development and agriculture’s future

Harvesting KNOWLEDGE

Exploration Center is a Hub for Agricultural Innovation and Education

PLOVER, Wis. — In Wisconsin’s heartland, where vast fields of potatoes and vegetables spread as far as the eye can see, the Food + Farm Exploration Center has emerged as a beacon of agricultural innovation and sustainability. This visionary project is the brainchild of the Farming for the Future Foundation (FFTFF), established by the Pavelski family, who are Compeer Financial clients and owners of Heartland Farms in Hancock, Wis. Their mission is to bridge the gap between consumers and the agricultural world by educating current and future generations about the intricacies of farming and sustainable practices.

The Food + Farm Exploration Center, located in Plover, Wis., opened its doors to the public on Dec. 2, 2023. The 50,000-square-foot facility, nestled on 24 acres, offers visitors a unique blend of ag-related science, technology and hands-on experiences. With over 60 interactive exhibits, demonstration farm fields, meeting spaces, café and gift shop, the center aims to demystify agriculture for all who enter. Notably, the center features the world’s largest potato masher, proudly standing 39 feet tall.

“FFTFF’s primary mission is to educate current and future generations about agricultural innovation and sustainability,” said Andy Reitz, executive director of the Food + Farm Exploration Center. “The purpose is to connect the disconnect around the general public’s understanding of where our food comes from, what goes into it, the people who make it happen, the technology

behind it and how it gets from field to store to table. The center is a manifestation of that vision.”

COMMUNITY + AGRICULTURE

Plover provides the perfect backdrop for the Food + Farm Exploration Center. Positioned halfway between Chicago and Minneapolis, the center is a pivotal destination along the bustling Interstate 39 corridor. Its strategic location has attracted numerous meetings, conventions and trade shows, fostering a dynamic connection between the local community and the broader ag industry.

More than just a tourist attraction, the exploration center is a hub for community engagement, welcoming learners of all ages to participate in various activities. It serves as a space for learning, playing, exploring and discovering the wonders of agriculture. Exhibits take visitors through the world of farming, featuring handson displays demonstrating everything from irrigation to processing to grocery shopping. Tractor simulators show the power of GPS, sandboxes teach visitors about topography and interactive maps show where certain crops are grown throughout Wisconsin.

“Our core is built around education,” explained Reitz. “Whether inside our building or through our outreach programming, everything is centered on education, and everything we do supports that initiative. It’s all about closing that gap in people’s knowledge of where their food comes from.”

The Food + Farm Exploration Center has former teachers on staff who develop education programs for kids and adults. One popular program, Tot Time, provides an environment for toddlers and their parents to experience age-appropriate play with an agricultural focus. The center’s outreach programming allows its educators to visit area schools for pre-visits with students before a field trip to the center or a separate lesson altogether.

VISION TO REALITY

The center’s vision took shape in October 2019, followed by an extensive fundraising campaign and a groundbreaking ceremony in April 2022. The total project cost amounted to an impressive $41 million, showcasing the commitment of FFTFF to bring this transformative vision to life.

FFTFF is a nonprofit organization that relies on public support for annual needs and capital projects. The Compeer Fund for Rural America, recognizing the monumental impact of the Food + Farm Exploration Center, contributed a signature gift of $750,000. This donation came with naming rights to the Compeer Financial Observation Deck, promising visitors a unique vantage point overlooking acres dedicated to agricultural production and mini-pivot displays. This visual spectacle mirrors Compeer’s commitment to “watching over” agriculture and rural communities.

Since its opening, the Food + Farm Exploration Center has left a deep-rooted mark on the community and beyond. Hosting events like U-Pick vegetable days, welcoming over 7,300 ticketed guests and collaborating with educational institutions and organizations like Mid-State Technical College, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Girl Scouts and the Boys & Girls Club of America, the center is fulfilling its mission to educate, engage and inspire.

As the exploration continues, the Food + Farm Exploration Center stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to the future of agriculture. The Fund for Rural America’s support ensures this visionary project continues to flourish, leaving a lasting impact on agricultural education and sustainability.

Opposite page: The Food + Farm Exploration Center, in Plover, Wis., opened in late 2023 and aims to bridge the gap between consumers and the agricultural world.

Top left: Food + Farm Exploration Center visitors can explore demonstration farm fields, where potatoes and vegetables grow as far as the eye can see.

Bottom left: Unique to the Food + Farm Exploration Center, Tot Time provides an environment for toddlers and their parents to experience age-appropriate play with an agricultural focus.

Top right: With over 60 interactive exhibits, the 50,000-square-foot facility offers hands-on experiences for guests.

Bottom right: Interactive maps teach Food + Farm Exploration Center visitors about where certain crops are grown throughout Wisconsin.

STEPPING IN

Farm Rescue Offers Help When Needed the Most

DUNDAS, Minn. — Scattered across the United States are 500 volunteers ready and willing to assist fellow farmers or ranchers in their time of need. Farm Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, stands as a unique organization dedicated to aiding members of the agricultural community who face major illness, injury or natural disasters.

Currently, Farm Rescue’s assistance extends to farm and ranch families in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

“We’re the only organization in the country doing something like this,” said Ben Smith, field operations manager for Farm Rescue. “We provide in-field and hands-on support to farm families during their most critical moments. We dispatch labor and machinery directly to their fields, ensuring farmwork is completed professionally and promptly so the family doesn’t suffer undue hardship due to crises and their business doesn’t suffer.”

Pilot Bill Gross, a native of North Dakota, founded Farm Rescue in 2005. Driven by a desire to give back to the agricultural community, Gross aimed to assist farm families facing a major illness or injury in planting, tending to or harvesting their crops.

John Thomas, a Compeer Financial client near Dundas, Minn., is one of the 1,000 farm and ranch families Farm Rescue has assisted since its inception. In July 2023, Thomas underwent a second leg amputation, 12 years after his first. Recognizing the challenges ahead, Thomas’ wife Judy sought assistance from Farm Rescue for the harvest season.

“Having Farm Rescue really helped speed up the process,” Thomas said. “A lot of people in my area were intrigued by what was going on when Farm Rescue was here.”

Volunteers like Mitch Krause dedicated nearly two weeks to helping the Thomas family harvest their bean and corn crops.

“I’m sure that for these farmers, knowing an organization exists to aid and support them is a big load off their shoulders,” Krause said.

As a nonprofit, Farm Rescue relies on donations, like the one they received from Compeer in 2023, to fund all activities.

“Every donation enables us to not only serve our current areas, but helps in furthering our goal of expanding our reach to offer assistance wherever our machinery and farming expertise is needed,” Smith explained. “Operating costs have steadily risen at Farm Rescue, and farming is no different.”

Faced with escalating machinery costs and increased expenses for lodging, meals, insurance and fuel, Farm Rescue diligently pursues additional funding through support and sponsorships.

The organization also serves to break the stigma of asking for help.

“Seventy percent of our requests originate from individuals reaching out on behalf of the farmer because the farmer was hesitant to seek aid,” Smith noted. “Farmers are known for their pride and self-reliance, but it’s crucial to understand the importance of community support. We aim to prevent anyone from slipping through the cracks because they didn’t know help was available.”

Reflecting on his experience, Thomas emphasized Farm Rescue’s user-friendly application process, noting his neighbors’ newfound interest in the organization’s work. He was able to share more about his experience with Farm Rescue with his neighbors when they stopped over during the multi-week volunteer effort.

“My main advice is to embrace this valuable resource without reservation,” Thomas concluded.

Opposite page: Farm Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit is dedicated to aiding members of the agricultural community in times of need.

Below clockwise L-R: Farm Rescue supplies its own machinery directly to the fields of the farm families its providing aid.

L-R: Compeer Financial Officer Eric Hokanson, Ben Smith, John Thomas, volunteer Andy Stender and Mitch Krause.

Judy and John Thomas, of Dundas, Minn., received assistance from Farm Rescue in July 2023.

Donations to Farm Rescue allow the organization to supply machinery and labor to members of the agricultural community who face major illness, injury or natural disasters.

Powered byBLUE JACKETS

FFA Nurtures Future Agriculturalists and Leaders

PEARL CITY, Ill. — Benjamin Bremmer’s blue corduroy FFA jacket has created life-changing opportunities for him.

“From the skills I have made to the people I have met — those things wouldn’t have happened anywhere else but FFA,” said the 19-year-old from Pearl City, Ill. “I’ve had valuable leadership, public speaking and hands-on learning experiences. Every single person is touched by agriculture, and there is a place for them in FFA.”

Bremmer, a third-generation FFA member, is the Illinois FFA state treasurer. The five-person state officer team in Illinois takes a gap year from school to serve the association.

During their year of service, officers travel more than 20,000 miles to visit FFA chapters around the state, conduct workshops and meetings, represent Illinois FFA in professional settings, and promote agricultural education.

The Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America is one of five organizations that support the state officers’ travel, working with the state office to provide a vehicle. During his year as state treasurer, Bremmer is utilizing the vehicle provided by Compeer Financial, which is co-branded with FFA and Compeer. Bremmer and his family also happen to be clients of Compeer.

“When companies, local businesses and individuals support FFA, it makes a lasting impact on our members,” Bremmer said. “Support for our travel like this helps the state officers visit chapters, host conferences and contests, support record books and provide plaques and awards. It’s really cool to drive a car supported by a cooperative that I am an active client in.”

Bremmer was one of more than 72,494 FFA members directly impacted by Compeer’s financial support in 2023.

“Benjamin is a shining example of the impact FFA makes on young adults,” said Jeff Kromm, a financial officer at Compeer, who works with Bremmer and his family. “FFA’s mission to prepare its members for leadership and careers in agriculture overlaps with Compeer’s mission of enriching agriculture and rural America. Supporting FFA at the state and local levels within Compeer’s territory is an important pillar in our giving.”

After his year of service as a state officer, Bremmer plans to attend the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to study agriculture business marketing and management. His goal is

“ When I wear my FFA blue jacket, I feel thankful and optimistic because FFA has given me so many opportunities and opened so many doors in my life, from the people I have met to the skills I have learned, and because FFA has shaped a bright future for agriculture by creating the next generation of leaders.”

Benjamin Bremmer

Illinois FFA State Treasurer

FFA PARTNERSHIPS

to return to the family farm, to help raise corn, soybeans and replacement heifers for a local dairy.

Bremmer believes the experiences and skills he’s learned in FFA will benefit him for the rest of this life.

“FFA has really helped me with my public speaking,” Bremmer said. “I feel comfortable talking to people and having a conversation. This skill alone has helped me grow as person and be more mature and confident.”

“ When I wear my FFA blue jacket, I feel empowered to better those around me because I have the opportunity to share my experiences, educate the people I meet and make a difference in shaping the future of agriculture.”

Katie Ketchum

Minnesota FFA President

“ When I wear my FFA blue jacket, I feel confident because I know there is a community of people behind me who have all worn the same blue corduroy.”

Linsey Mueller

Wisconsin FFA State Treasurer

FFA is the premier youth organization that prepares members for leadership and careers in agricultural science, business and technology. Since 2018, the Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America has provided more than $635,750 to support state FFA organizations.

This support includes:

• Annual commitments to support state officer chapter visits, travel, Star Awards and leadership development events

• Matching dollars for Giving Tuesday

• Additional funding for chapter-level grants and donations

Partners in RURAL VITALITY

Rural Collaboration Project Unites Compeer and Foundations

Rural communities thrive when people and organizations share a united, common cause.

Collaboration is the key to creating and maintaining rural vitality, which is the main driver behind Compeer Financial’s support of the Rural Collaboration Project.

The Rural Collaboration Project provides grant funding to community and initiative foundations across Compeer’s territory in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. In 2023, the project was piloted with seven foundations and provided $347,500 in funding for seven focus areas. (See graphic for more information.)

The vision centers around active, strong rural societies capable of supporting thriving economies.

In Wisconsin, the Fond du Lac Area Foundation partnered with the Beaver Dam Community Foundation to create a new fund and grant program focused on rural vitality.

“The grants helped to support community childcare needs and community development,” said Aaron Sadoff, executive director of the Fond du Lac Area Foundation. “Seven rural nonprofits and their communities now have more support than ever.

The collaborative process has beautifully demonstrated how we can work together for the common good.”

Compeer also partnered with Minnesota’s Initiative Foundation to support regional, rural nonprofits in strategic planning and the implementation of the unique capacitybuilding priorities identified through that planning.

“It is surprisingly rare for nonprofits to receive funding for self-identified capacity-building needs,” said Nicole Clements, nonprofit development program officer with the Initiative Foundation. “This unique, innovative approach empowers key stakeholders to direct the future of their organizations and accelerates the pace at which nonprofits can increase their capacity to serve their communities.”

Other partners include:

• Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin — Janesville, Wis.

• DeKalb County Community Foundation — Sycamore, Ill.

• Eau Claire Community Foundation — Eau Claire, Wis.

• The Foundation for Northwest Illinois — Freeport, Ill.

• Galesburg Community Foundation — Galesburg, Ill.

“At Compeer Financial, we are all about boosting rural growth through teamwork,” said Karen Schieler, senior corporate giving specialist at Compeer. “Our Rural Collaboration Project unites forces within community and initiative foundations to fuel progress. From farming to community needs, entrepreneurship to education, Compeer is on board. We can help rural America thrive through important projects like this.”

The Rural Collaboration Project will continue in 2024 with support for additional community foundations and initiatives.

The Agriculture and Rural Initiative — Compeer’s donor-advised fund — provided funding for this program and was created by Compeer Financial’s Board of Directors in 2019 to make signature investments in programs and projects that are high priorities to member-owners. To date, $10 million has been invested in the initiative, and $2.4 million has been awarded to support rural vitality, human health and agriculture and agriculture workforce development.

Rural Collaboration Projects should have a sustainable long-term plan and fit within the community’s long-term strategic vision for rural vitality.

Focus areas include:

Agriculture

Programs, projects and services that enhance the agricultural landscape and opportunities in a rural community.

Community Development

Programs and projects contributing to the essential needs of the community. This can include health care, daycare and other areas that impact the quality of life for families and community members of all ages.

Entrepreneurship & Small Business Support

Programs and services helping the creative, cuttingedge entrepreneurs and small business owners in a rural community.

Housing Expansion

Programs and services supporting rural housing cooperatives or consultants or enhancements to singlefamily, multi-family and workforce housing efforts. (Excludes efforts related to homelessness.)

Leadership Development

Programs and projects helping to inspire, train and promote leadership for youth and adults in rural communities.

Rural Education

Enhancing programming, innovations and experiences at pre-K to grade 12 schools to ensure students have access to a world-class education.

Workforce Development

Programs and projects attracting, retaining, training and sustaining community members — current and future — to vital jobs and careers.

2024-2025 GRANT TIMELINE

For detailed information, deadlines and applications for each of these programs,* visit compeer.com/giving-back.

August: Emergency Response Equipment and Regional Collaboration Grants

November: General Use Grant

January: High School Senior Scholarship Program (Due in March)

February: Farmers Market: Organization and Vendor Grants

March: County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant

April: Agriculture Education and Classroom Equipment Grant

May: General Use Grant

Ongoing:

• Beginning with Compeer Financial Grant

• Community Building Grant

• Rural Feasibility Study Grant

• Transition Planning Grant

*Each grant program is subject to change.

2024 FUND FOR RURAL AMERICA ® BOARD OF TRUSTEES

John Monson, Chair

Board of Director Members

Rod Bosma

Mark Cade

Dan Erickson

Dave Peters

Daniel Scheider

Kimberly Wedig

Team Members

Melissa Caulum

Jacob Chapman

Jessica Fleming

Ben Larson

Jennifer Layton

Jana Stangler

Compeer Financial Corporate Giving Team

Melanie Olson, Corporate Giving Specialist

Karen Schieler, Sr. Corporate Giving Specialist

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

Jerry Wiese

Retiring after 26 YEARS in the Farm Credit System

Wishing you all the best on your retirement!

CHAIN.

Compeer Financial’s Food & Agribusiness team leverages industry expertise to provide innovative financial solutions across the agriculture value chain — and we’re equipped with the funding capacity to position your business for success every step of the way. Let’s get growing, together.

CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER

Bruce Feist

Compeer Financial’s new Chief Information Officer

Welcome to the Compeer Financial team!

Building a LEGACY FOR THE FUTURE

Sawyer Cottrell Is Compeer Financial’s 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year

EUREKA, Ill. — On Legacy Ranch, a picturesque 10-acre farm just outside Eureka, Ill., Sawyer Cottrell, his wife Abbie and their three young children take a ride through the pasture in front of the family’s home, bringing feed to the American Wagyu cattle that dot the landscape.

Since high school, Cottrell dreamt of working in agriculture and raising a family on a farm. He’s had to work hard to achieve this goal, especially because he didn’t grow up farming.

“There’s a mentality that if you didn’t grow up on a farm, you have no chance of being a farmer,” he reflected. “But I truly think anything is possible if you’re willing to put in the time and dedication.”

Cottrell’s journey started in high school when he began working for a local farmer he knew through church, which eventually led to a full-time job after he graduated. A short time later, he founded Central Illinois Beanwalkers (CIB), where

every summer he hires about 120 local youth to walk beans in the organic fields near Eureka.

“I love working with young people and giving them the opportunity to work hard for a paycheck,” said Cottrell. “I think there’s so much value in that. In the last five years, CIB has done three-quarters of a million dollars in payroll — money that’s stayed in our local community.”

His determination, dedication and entrepreneurial spirit eventually led to a passion for Wagyu cattle. “I saw some Wagyu bulls in a catalog, and I gave it a shot,” he said with a smile.

When a farmer just down the road was moving out of state and had cattle to sell, Cottrell added five Waygu steers to his operation in what seemed to be a serendipitous turn of events. Today, Legacy Ranch direct markets Wagyu beef to local customers and ships nationwide.

A PASSION FOR EDUCATING

Education became another cornerstone of Cottrell’s journey. A few years out of high school, married and building his family, he enrolled at Illinois Central College to earn a degree to achieve his next dream of becoming a teacher. He’s now in his first year of teaching agriculture and serving as the FFA advisor at Eureka High School, nurturing the next generation of agriculture.

Dana Wiegand, Cottrell’s financial officer at Compeer, has gotten to know him well over the last few years.

“The best way to describe Sawyer is as a servant leader,” Wiegand said. “He has a lot of passion for what he does and an even greater passion for the people he comes in contact with. You can see it when Sawyer interacts with his students and the kids he works with through CIB. They respect him and look to him as a mentor, and it’s a great thing to witness.”

Do you know a young, beginning or small-operation farmer who’s passionate about what they do and has a positive impact on agriculture? Nominate them for Compeer’s GroundBreaker of the Year Award! Nominees must be actively involved in farming in Illinois, Minnesota or Wisconsin — and must be age 35 or younger, have 10 years or less of farming experience or generate less than $350,000 in annual gross sales.

Nominations for the 2025 GroundBreaker of the Year will be accepted starting in early summer 2024.

Learn more at compeer.com/GroundBreakerOfTheYear

GROUNDBREAKER OF THE YEAR

Cottrell’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. His determination, innovative spirit and desire to help others get involved in agriculture exemplify why he’s a great fit for Compeer Financial’s GroundBreaker of the Year Award. The award honors young, beginning and small-operation farmers who demonstrate resilience, innovation and dedication to advancing agriculture and their local communities.

“It’s important for Compeer to support young and beginning farmers like Sawyer,” Wiegand said. “They’re the lifeblood of the future of agriculture in our community. I love working with people like Sawyer who are passionate about what they’re doing and about agriculture. It makes my job even more fulfilling because I’m able to help people like him, which overall furthers agriculture and makes our rural community even better.”

Cottrell’s love for what he does is clear. “I love why I do it, so to be selected as the GroundBreaker of the Year is unbelievable,” he noted. “I don’t feel like I’m anything special, and I don’t feel like I’ve done anything special. I feel like all I’ve done is what God told me to do, and some days I feel like he picked the wrong person. Knowing that others recognize what I’m doing means the world to me.”

Driven by a desire to create a lasting legacy, Cottrell aims to provide opportunities for future generations. “I’m motivated to do all this because I’m passionate about raising my kids on a farm,” he explained. “I’m motivated by the fact that I didn’t grow up on a farm and I can now give other young people who want to be part of agriculture an opportunity to do what they love.”

As the sun sets over Legacy Ranch, casting a golden hue over the fields, one thing is clear: Sawyer Cottrell’s story isn’t just about farming; it’s about passion, resilience and the unwavering belief that with dedication, anything is possible.

Sawyer Cottrell chats with Dana Wiegand (left), his financial officer at Compeer, about his farm and opportunities for the future.

Sawyer Cottrell is Compeer Financial’s 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year.

Opposite page: Sawyer and Abbie Cottrell, and their three young children, drive through the family’s pasture to bring feed to the Wagyu beef cattle.

Giving BACK

Kimberly Wedig shares success story and passion for agriculture

DARLINGTON, Wis. — For 37 years, Kimberly Wedig has toiled tirelessly on the dairy farm she shares with her husband Joe in Darlington, Wis. From dawn till dusk, her tasks range from milking duties to financial management to tending to the calf barn. However, she expanded her repertoire three years ago by joining the Compeer Financial Board of Directors.

For Wedig, the decision to embark on her first term was straightforward, owing in part to her longstanding relationship with Farm Credit and Compeer.

“Farm Credit has always supported us,” she said. “When Joe’s dad passed away six years after our marriage began, leaving us without a mentor, our financial officer took us under his wing. He wanted us to succeed and worked closely with us to ensure we had a viable operation.”

And succeed, they did. Over three decades, their modest 60head operation has steadily grown into a 300-head dairy herd, a 200-head beef operation and 900 crop acres.

“We started out small and expanded gradually,” Wedig recalled. “Every day on the farm is unique, and that’s what I love about it. Raising our kids on the farm instilled a strong work ethic in them. The farm has been good to us.”

As they ventured into farming, the Wedigs formed a strong bond with their financial officer at Compeer, a relationship that’s left a lasting impression on Wedig.

“That support has stayed with me,” she explained. “I want Farm Credit and Compeer Financial to remain this viable, awesome and strong organization for our family. Serving on the Board demands commitment, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute.”

With three sons and a daughter, the Wedigs now work alongside their sons and are beginning to plan for the farm’s transition, freeing up time for Wedig to engage with the Board.

“Joining the Board has been a learning curve,” she said. “But I finally feel like I’m finding my place. I’ve gained insights from other Farm Credit board members from associations across the nation and have made connections within the agricultural community. The Compeer directors have been supportive as I’m newer to the role. It’s incredible to see the Board’s passion to ensure the cooperative is strong and growing for the benefit of our member-owners.”

Wedig serves on the Compensation and Governance Committee, on the Corporate Giving Committee and as vice chair of the Young, Beginning and Small Farmer and Wisconsin Legislative committees.

“There’s so much talent among young people, and it’s rewarding to play a role in shaping their future,” she said.

Wedig’s history of giving back includes volunteering at local Extension office fairs and auctions, a role she values now that she has more time to lend a helping hand.

“Volunteering is important to me,” she said. “The success of any organization hinges on its members, and volunteering is a way to make your voice heard and create an impact. I appreciate the opportunity Compeer has provided me, and I look forward to what lies ahead.”

Opposite page: Kimberly Wedig is in her third year as a Compeer Financial Board of Directors member.

Below: Kimberly Wedig and her husband own and operate a dairy farm in Darlington, Wis.

WHAT’S NEW AT COMPEER?

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ELECTION TIMELINE CHANGE

The timeline for Compeer Financial’s Board of Directors and Nominating Committee election is changing. The election will now occur in late summer to better accommodate the busy harvest season, with voting available from August 1 to August 29, 2024.

Eligible member-owners will receive their ballots in early August and may vote via paper or electronically. Voting electronically is simple and saves your cooperative the cost of postage. Simply scan the QR code on your ballot with your smartphone to cast your vote securely and conveniently.

Participating in the Board of Directors election is your chance to influence the cooperative’s direction and leadership. Board members are crucial in steering our business, assessing operations and ensuring alignment with client needs, industry trends and market dynamics.

With three director positions open, your vote matters! Ballots must be submitted by August 29, 2024.

Visit compeer.com/elections to learn about the 2024 candidates and explore their perspectives on agriculture, rural communities and the cooperative model.

Compeer Financial Board of Directors

HOLIDAY HOURS

Compeer Financial will be closed for business in observance of these upcoming holidays:

Memorial Day: May 27

Independence Day: July 4

Labor Day: September 2

Thanksgiving: November 28 & 29*

Christmas Eve: December 24 (half day starting at noon)

Christmas: December 25

*For your convenience, our CONTACT CENTER will be open for calls from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday, November 29.

To reach the Contact Center, please call (844) 426-6733.

PHOTO CALENDAR CONTEST OPENS JUNE 1

Compeer Financial’s annual photo calendar contest will be open for submissions from June 1 through August 31. 2025’s calendar will celebrate Compeer’s commitment to agriculture and rural communities and the resiliency of our industries. The printed calendar is sent to Compeer clients each November. We hope to capture the beautiful sights and scenes of life in the Upper Midwest.

All are welcome to submit photos through August 31, 2024. Photographers whose entries are selected to appear in the calendar will be notified via email in the fall.

Visit compeer.com/calendarcontest for more details.

Front: Kimberly Wedig, Stephanie Wise, Dan Erickson, Dale Holmgren Back: Allyn Buhrow, Mark Cade, Greg Pollesch, Daniel Scheider, Ashley Ahl, Rod Bosma, Sarah Jansen, Dave Peters, Ann Broome, Tracy Travis Not pictured: Larry Fischer

Final reminder!

COMPEER’S ROUTING NUMBER IS CHANGING

As a reminder, Compeer Financial’s routing number has changed — our new routing number is 096016972

Starting May 1, 2024, any checks or automatic transactions using the old routing number will not be processed, and you may incur fees and other penalties as a result.

Please be sure your Compeer Financial checks and any automated or bill pay transactions connected to your accounts at Compeer utilize the new routing number, 096016972, to ensure your payments are processed.

Learn more at compeer.com/RoutingNumber.

Listen to the HOME SWEET HOME PODCAST

Compeer’s new podcast, “Home Sweet Home: The Ins and Outs of Rural Property Financing,” is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of purchasing, owning and financing rural properties. Whether you’re considering a farmhouse, ranch or remote cabin in the woods, this podcast provides invaluable insights so you can make informed decisions.

From understanding land valuation and zoning regulations to exploring financing options tailored to rural properties, the podcast covers everything you need to know to navigate the real estate market successfully. Join us as we explore the joys and challenges of finding your own slice of paradise in the countryside.

Visit compeer.com/homesweethome to listen.

Photo by Heather Bonow Featured in the 2024 Photo Calendar

2600 Jenny Wren Trail

PO Box 810 Sun Prairie, WI 53590

FINANCING FOR

If you’re looking to build or remodel your home, we make the construction financing process easier. That’s because we do things differently here. Our relationship with you is much more than transactional — it’s a partnership we get personally invested in. So whether you need an experienced lender or a trusted advisor you can count on, we’re ready.

(844) 426-6733