For Eastern View FFA, serving its community is crucial. From volunteering to donating to the local animal shelter, being involved with the community is at the top of the list. One of the most notable efforts is the local NEXUS night, which is a student-led floral arranging class. 

Partnership With CTEC

This class is held at the Culpeper Technical Education Center (CTEC), where students in Culpeper County, Va., are taught valuable trade skills. CTEC, along with Eastern View FFA, provide all supplies, including all florals and tools needed, and offer the class free to the public. 

Student Leadership and Skill Development

Every year, a student is chosen to lead the class, showcasing their talent and skill in floral design. These skills are learned through Eastern View’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program that includes horticulture, floriculture and many other classes.

The meaning of NEXUS is a sequence of connections linking two or more things. The event was named this to show how relationships can be formed between community members when given the opportunity to intermingle with each other.

Eastern View FFA members teach Culpeper community members the many skills needed to create a beautifully crafted floral arrangement.

Building Communication and Community

Eastern View FFA strives to bring the community together to learn the various competencies and abilities of floral design. The chapter uses NEXUS night as a way to strengthen their members’ leadership, confidence and communication abilities. Students chosen to lead this class not only demonstrate their technical skills, but also learn how to teach and work with people of all ages and backgrounds. 

Real-World Experiences Through Ag Education

Students are given valuable opportunities to gain knowledge of the floral education industry. Events, such as NEXUS night, remind everyone involved that agriculture isn’t just about farming; it is about building strong relationships, sharing our knowledge and creating a tight-knit community. Furthermore, giving members real-world experiences working with local residents is essential because the Eastern View FFA Chapter’s mission is to give back to the community in every way it can.