When coming from a small, rural town like Wilkes County, it’s easy to feel like your voice is too quiet or your impact is not enough to matter. But for the members of the Washington-Wilkes FFA Chapter, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Through hard work, compassion and a true dedication to service, they’re showing how even in the most rural places, big change can grow.
What started as a simple school garden has turned into something so much more. These FFA members began by planting cucumbers and spinach to support the Washington-Wilkes Comprehensive High School’s salad bar with fresh, healthy options grown in the back of the agriculture building by high school students. But when they saw how much of a difference just those vegetables made, they decided to grow more than just food — they decided to grow hope as well.
Partnering with the local Golden Harvest Food Bank, the chapter expanded its project into a full community effort. Now, with pantry staples donated by the food bank, fresh vegetables from the FFA chapter’s garden are distributed to families in need across Wilkes County. From students and teachers to parents and neighbors, anyone — no matter their background — can schedule a pickup on Tuesdays or Thursdays through Chris Townsend, the high school’s lunch room manager. This service is open to all, no questions asked, because in this community, no one should have to worry about their next meal.
The most beautiful part of this story isn’t the vegetables or the pantry shelves — it’s the students behind it all. In a world where teens are often overlooked, these FFA members are rolling up their sleeves and showing what true leadership looks like. They’re learning how to grow crops, but also how to grow responsibility, purpose and a big heart.
“Living to Serve” isn’t just a motto for the Washington-Wilkes FFA Chapter — it’s something these members live out, harvest by harvest, day by day, week after week. In a rural city where resources can be limited, they’ve learned that service isn’t just about how much you have — it’s about how much you’re willing to give.
What makes this project even more meaningful is how personal it feels. Many of our members know what it’s like to go without. They understand the stress that comes with tight budgets and empty refrigerators. This work matters so much to the chapter because it’s not just helping strangers — it’s helping classmates, neighbors, friends, one another and, most of all, the community.
FFA has taught us that agriculture is more than farming. It’s about people. It’s about showing up and showing out. Through this project, this chapter has gained hands-on experience in food production, community service and leadership. But more than that, members have learned the value of compassion and the strength that comes from standing together.
We may come from a small school in a quiet county, but the impact we’re making is loud and clear. We’re proving that from the most unexpected places, greatness can grow and thrive. We’re proud to say that when Washington-Wilkes FFA shows up, we don’t just live, we serve.
