The FFA motto is “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.” This is more than just a sentence; it is a way of life. More specifically, “Living to Serve” is the driving force behind a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project undertaken by two Clear Lake FFA members in Iowa.
Camryn Allsbrook and Addie Cooper first connected through the parliamentary procedure leadership development event. There, they strengthened their connection and friendship, as well as developed leadership and teamwork that impacted how they worked together. These experiences helped them grow in and out of the classroom.
While working together, they realized a need within the Clear Lake Community School District: greater access to fresh produce. This sparked an interest in designing an SAE project focused on growing produce for their district pantry.
Determined to make their vision a reality, Allsbrook and Cooper applied for funding, and were awarded a $1,000 grant from the National FFA Organization. With the grant, they built raised garden beds, purchased soil, seeds and necessary tools, and officially launched their project.
Throughout time, they have successfully grown and donated a variety of vegetables, including green beans, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, zucchini and more. Each time they were able to give back and serve their community, it motivated them to continue to make a difference in the lives of others. They have established a greater movement to help provide healthy, locally grown produce for families in need.
As seniors, Allsbrook and Cooper are committed to ensuring that the project continues after their time in high school and FFA. Although they are planning on staying involved, they want to expand their horizons and encourage others to give back to their community. In the following year, they plan to involve other students and share their knowledge about cultivating vegetables. Through this mentorship, they hope they can show others what it truly means to “Live to Serve.”
Allsbrook and Cooper’s project serves as an example of FFA projects in action and how you can live by the FFA motto. They have strengthened their local community and inspired others to continue the tradition of serving and cultivating produce. With the help of peers and their advisor, Jenna Kingsley, they plan to expand the garden and continue to influence the community for years to come.
Every single seed, and every service, makes a meaningful difference.
