The Cashion FFA officer team as they serve at the chapter’s Work Day Auction.
For members of the Cashion FFA Chapter in Oklahoma, leadership isn’t just gained through attending conferences or learning in the classroom, but also through hands-on experience and developing community trust. That philosophy was on full display at the chapter’s Work Day Auction, raising over $14,000 in funds, while also teaching values of service and hard work.
The Work Day Auction is the chapter’s only fundraiser where 100% of the proceeds go directly to supporting Cashion FFA. Different from traditional fundraisers, this event encourages community members to bid on eight hours of labor provided by Cashion FFA members, creating a unique exchange that benefits both supporters and students.
In early January, community members attended the Work Day Auction, which was held in the Cashion High School Cafeteria and began with a barbecue dinner. Chapter President Dally Pedersen and Vice President Maggie Carroll gave a welcome to attendees, introducing the more than 40 FFA members participating in the Work Day Auction.
All auctioneering services were donated by Layton Auction Service LLC, a popular auctioneering service in Oklahoma. To raise more funds, a silent auction was held with items donated by local businesses and FFA members. Proceeds from the event will help to fund essential classroom and meeting supplies, members’ involvement in spring competitions and career and leadership development events, and travel to the Oklahoma State FFA Convention in May.
At the auction, individuals were acquired for prices ranging from $200-$600 each. Bidders had jobs, such as welding, fence building, cleaning, organizing, painting, gardening, and even babysitting in mind for the Cashion FFA members. Besides its great financial impact, the Work Day Auctions strengthens relationships between the chapter and the community it serves. Supporters gain dependable help, while participating students gain work experience in representing agricultural values.
Cashion FFA member and eighth grader Eli Hoesli as he’s bid on during the chapter’s annual Work Day Auction.
“The Work Day Auction builds leadership by teaching members responsibility, teamwork and service, while directly raising funds that support and strengthen our chapter’s programs,” Pedersen says.
As Cashion FFA continues to strive to prepare members for success and career readiness beyond the classroom, the Work Day Auction stands as an example of how fundraising can also serve as an outlet for growth and leadership. Stepping into a new semester, the chapter looks forward to another year of opportunity and service.
