GRASS ROOTS MONTANA

BY MONTANA FARMERS UNION

Montana Farmers Union, the Next Generation

Montana Farmers Union is dedicated to ensuring there is a spot at the table for the next generation of producers and leaders –and that the next generation feels confident to take it.

“Agriculture is how I grew up, and I think that is one of the most wonderful ways to grow up,” Rachel Prevost said during a panel discussion about youth advocacy during National Farmers Union’s annual convention in March.

Participating in 4-H and FFA taught her many things valuable to her still today, said Prevost, who serves as MFU’s member services director and continues to foster relationships with FFA and 4-H.

“Being able to reach out to clubs and let them know we appreciate the work they do in our rural communities through service –and ask how we can help them further that goal – is always going to be a benefit for the communities and the club. MFU can do so much in terms of building up this next generation of leaders, who are currently investing their time in their communities through programs like 4-H,” Prevost said.

MFU has long been a supporter of FFA and 4-H, including donating a freezer van to School House Meats and Missoula FFA and the Sentence Grant program for 4-H club projects.

A large piece of MFU’s education efforts is Arrowpeak Camp summer programs, and many kids who attend Arrowpeak are also involved in 4-H and FFA.

“4-H and FFA are youth-development-focused programs which use agriculture, leadership, and public speaking as the catalysts towards shaping the youth of tomorrow. Attending Arrowpeak camps is perfect for 4-H, FFA and other youth to explore and improve their skills and passions for agriculture and leadership,” MFU Ambassador Samantha Ferrat said.

The benefits of connecting with MFU go beyond financial support to include perks such as mentorship and learning advocacy skills.

FFA and 4-H senior members also are eligible for a free MFU membership, which gives them access to scholarships, grants, discounts to summer camp programs, leadership and advocacy trainings, real-world advocacy opportunities, and a network of agriculturalists.

“Becoming an active and engaged member in MFU lends endless opportunities for Montana youth. Successful leaders and agriculturists continue to learn and improve while forging new connections and relationships, and Montana Farmers Union makes all of that possible,” Ferrat said.

To take advantage of the membership, email mfu@montanafarmersunion.com for details. To learn more about educational opportunities with MFU, go to www. montanafarmersunion.com/education/.