Adelyn Friend, Woodward FFA Vice President in Oklahoma.
For FFA members, you often hear the FFA motto, “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.” But what does this mean to members? This motto encapsulates the journey of personal growth and responsibility within the organization. It embodies how members should be and helps them strive to become better and contribute to their communities. Adelyn Friend, a chapter officer from Woodward FFA in Oklahoma, has taken this motto to the next level by creating an FFA closet that supports fellow members in need.
How It All Started
Friend recognized a common challenge among fellow FFA members: Many either outgrow their Official Dress or did not have the resources or time to acquire the proper attire for competitions. Official Dress is essential and includes a blue corduroy jacket, black pants or skirt, a white collared shirt, an official tie or scarf, and black dress shoes or black heels. Not having all of these items could prevent members from attending a competition.
How She Fixed This Issue
To solve this problem, Friend started an FFA closet last year. This closet offers a place where members can borrow Official Dress items, ensuring everyone has access to what they need, regardless of their financial situation or time constraints. As Friend explained, “There are some members that do not have the means to purchase the Official FFA Dress or they simply have not had the time to order everything before their first competition,” she said. Her initiative has made a real difference by removing barriers for members to engage fully in FFA activities.
Where the Closet Is Today
Over this past year, the FFA closet has grown significantly thanks to donations from past members and community contributions. It now holds a variety of skirts, scarves, jackets, black slacks and dress shoes. However, donations for more white shirts and black heels are much needed to meet all members’ needs. The closet continues to accept monetary donations and Official Dress items from former members who want to give back.
The Motto in Action
Friend’s work with the FFA closet perfectly embodies the spirit of “Living to Serve.” Not only did she think creatively, but she also provided a resource that helps her peers succeed. This closet helps support all FFA members, no matter where they come from. Through Friend’s dedication, she ensures that every member has the opportunity to show up dressed for success.
