12 Days of Positive Impact
Members of the Mesa Vista FFA Chapter celebrate the 12 days of Christmas.
What does service look like? For the Mesa Vista FFA Chapter, the answer to that question is hard work, leadership, and connection. For the past 5 years, during the winter months, Mesa Vista puts on its “12 Days of Christmas.” 12 Days of Christmas is an opportunity for FFA members to spread holiday cheer, build chapter unity, and give back to the community. Brianna Herrera, a member of the Mesa Vista Chapter, shares what makes these few weeks so special:
“One of our main community service projects is the ‘Trojan Tree.’ Through the Trojan Tree, we give back to students in our community who are less fortunate during the holidays by providing gifts and necessities,” says Herrera. “Other activities include candy canes with positive messages, door decorating, secret Santa, Christmas movie night, winter bingo, stocking-making, and an ugly sweater competition.” These activities each take place on a different day leading up to winter break, intriguing community members and younger kids into the world of FFA and agriculture.
FFA members and elementary school students after making stockings.
Putting on the winter works has fostered leadership growth for the chapter and its members. “This project has helped me grow as a leader by teaching me responsibility, teamwork, and service,” explains Herrera. “[It has] shown me how important it is to give back to those in need and be aware of others in our community. Being involved in planning and participating in events for students, staff, and community members has helped me develop leadership skills, confidence, and a stronger sense of responsibility to serve others.” There is no doubt that FFA members from Mesa Vista FFA have rooted themselves in purpose and progress, the same cornerstones exemplified through the industry of agriculture.
FFA members standing next to the “Trojan Tree.”
“Agriculture is built on helping others and supporting communities,” remarks Herrera. “Community service teaches leadership, compassion, and responsibility while showing that FFA is about service, growth, and making a positive impact beyond the classroom.”
In the last 5 years, this proud Northern New Mexico school has made a profound impact on the community and aspiring leaders. They have shown that a successful path is not paved through individual accomplishments. It is paved by the accomplishments of an entire chapter, city, and state. Mesa Vista FFA demonstrates real, authentic passion: for the growth and success of not just the FFA organization, but the people who give all FFA members a reason to lead.
