Crocheting for Cancer
Carrollton, M0., FFA members once again showed the depth of their compassion and community spirit by contributing several of their handmade projects to the annual Help Cancer Fund Auction at the Carrollton Country Club. Each year, this special event brings together a collection of handcrafted items, themed baskets and meaningful contributions from local students, organizations and community members.
This year, the Carroll County Help Cancer Fund Auction raised about $96,000 in total. Through the live auction, the community raised over $42,000, as well as $25,000 from the online auction, and the rest was made by generous monetary donations from the community. More than just an auction, it serves as a lifeline for local cancer patients and their families, providing financial support, resources and heartfelt encouragement during some of life’s most difficult moments.
For the Carrollton FFA Chapter, taking part in this cherished event is far more than donating items; it’s a chance for members to pour their talents, time and creativity into something that truly touches lives. Their 14+ years of involvement stand as a reflection of the organization’s core values: leadership, personal growth and a commitment to serving others.
“[FFA] gives me the opportunity to take part in things that regular schools can’t,” says Carrollton FFA member Kacie Swearingin. “FFA also helps me to explore future careers.”
This year’s auction opened for online bidding at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, and continued through 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28. Among the many heartfelt contributions was one of Swearingin’s favorite creations: a soft blanket crocheted in shades of blue, black and gold. After more than three months of dedicated work, she donated it with the hope that it might bring warmth and comfort to someone who truly needs it.
“I was happy to donate my blanket I made to help someone in need, and am so glad to be a part of the Help Cancer Fund Auction,” she says.
Swearingin’s passion, kindness and commitment earned her recognition as the Missouri Area 6 Service‐Learning Agricultural Proficiency Winner — an honor that reflects not only her craftsmanship, but her generous heart.
Kacie Swearingin (left) proudly holds the blanket she donated to this year’s cancer auction. A dedicated leader since the beginning of her FFA journey, Swearingin, now only a high school sophomore, has already made a meaningful impact on countless lives.
Carrollton FFA members Jackson Davis and Carter Germann also made a meaningful contribution by crafting a solid walnut, wall‐mounted blanket rack. Their collaboration with Swearingin truly embodied the “living to serve” line of the FFA motto, showing how agricultural education reaches far beyond the classroom. The hand‐built piece added both beauty and value to the auction, representing the pride they take in their skills and in supporting their community.
Jackson Davis and Carter Germann stand beside the blanket rack they crafted and donated to the Help Cancer Fund Auction, showcasing their generosity and devotion to supporting local families.
Another touching contribution came from Carrollton FFA member Trevor Tague, who combined his love for woodworking with his desire to bring hope to others. He created two unique wall pieces, each showcasing intricate wood grains and centered around a cross, a symbol of faith, strength and compassion. His artwork stands as a reminder of his generosity, and the positive difference one person can make.
Trevor Tague displays the project he donated to the cancer auction. He played a key role throughout the event by serving food, assisting with load‑out and answering questions. This showcased his strong commitment to the Carroll County community. Photo Credit: Emma Owen.
Carrollton FFA member Saige Horine also brought heartfelt sweetness to the auction by baking homemade chocolate chip cookies and brownies in honor of her aunt Carla‐Horine Hardwick’s cancer journey. Baking is part of her Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), where she shares treats with the community. Through her thoughtful tribute, Horine has quite literally brought warmth, love and comfort into the lives around her.
Saige Horine works on her baking SAE project, preparing homemade goods. She recently donated items to the Carroll County Help Cancer Fund Auction, using her skills to give back to the community.
Through contributions like Swearingin’s and the combined efforts of the entire Carrollton FFA Chapter, the Help Cancer Fund Auction continues to grow in its impact each year. Their involvement is a powerful testament of the compassion of young people, and the incredible ways they support their community and neighbors.
