SPRING VALLEY – Local Farmer Tony Shafer recently directed a $5,000 Bayer Fund America’s Farmers Grow Communities donation to the Spring Valley FFA chapter. The Spring Valley FFA chapter will use the funds to cover all members’ state and national FFA dues for the upcoming year. They would also like to start a school garden to serve the community and school district with fresh vegetables. This would provide students with hands-on learning opportunities and real life experiences. This grant will help give Spring Valley FFA a jumpstart on the funds that they need to start this program.

Spring Valley FFA Advisor Grace Anderson shared her appreciation for the Bayer Fund grant.

“We are extremely honored that Tony chose Spring Valley FFA as his organization to give the America’s Farmers Grow Communities grant to. We have a lot of great ideas and as a student-led organization, the students have the opportunity to make the decisions about how to put the money to use,” Anderson said. “I am very excited to see all the amazing things we get to do with this grant!” 

Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded nearly $65 million to nonprofits, aspiring ag students and public schools across rural America. Farmers are leaders in their communities, which is why America’s Farmers programs rely on them to help identify the worthiest causes.

Dedicated to making a difference in rural farming communities, the Grow Communities program asks farmers across the country to participate by nominating nonprofit organizations with resources to strengthen their local communities. Last August, farmers entered for the chance to direct a $2,500 Grow Communities donation to a local eligible nonprofit of their choice. Farmers have directed donations to food banks, emergency response organizations, schools, youth agriculture programs, and many others that reflect the spirit and support the vibrancy of rural America.

“Bayer Fund is proud to work side-by-side with farmers to identify local eligible nonprofit organizations that are able to provide their residents with solutions that leave a lasting impact,” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund president.

To learn more about how America’s Farmers are making an impact, visit www.AmericasFarmers.com.

Submitted by Grace Anderson