From Roots to Riches: Teaching Members About Success
Central DeWitt FFA Chapter officers present to members and parents at the chapter’s annual Roots to Riches event.
FFA offers tons of opportunities, but younger members often don’t know how to take advantage of them. The Central DeWitt FFA Chapter in DeWitt, Iowa, hosts an annual event called “Roots to Riches” that teaches members and parents about the multitude of opportunities its members have through FFA. Run by the chapter officers, this year’s focus was career and leadership development events (CDEs and LDEs).
Developing Skills Through Competitions
New this year, officers and members in the chapter’s agricultural leadership class made tri-fold poster boards to teach members about competitions. Boards featured two similar competitions and an interactive activity to help engage the members at the event. Some examples include member Kamryn Keester’s presentation on the milk quality and products CDE, which had members try to differentiate between four types of cheeses. Dalani Beuthein’s soil judging CDE board featured a demonstration on how to make soil ribbons. Members rotated around the room and were able to find competitions that piqued their interests.
While chapter members were learning about competitions, their parents had the opportunity to listen to the chapter’s alumni. Alumni members shared ways that parents can get involved in the chapter and support their members.
Following their meeting, members and parents gathered together for the chapter’s hall of fame ceremony. Three of the chapter’s former members were recognized for outstanding success in the chapter with a video presentation made by reporter Adam Wilke. Inductees talked about how FFA prepared them for success post-high school and why members should get involved.
Laying the Groundwork for Future Success
Roots to Riches is a valuable learning experience for members and parents. It gives members the opportunity to learn how to get involved in FFA and make the most of their time. It also shows parents how they can help support their members. With a strong foundation in place, members are prepared to pursue success in the future.
