CAMPUS VIEW: JACKSON FFA IS ONE OF STATE'S LARGEST CHAPTERS

The Future Farmers of America's 451,997 members and 7,268 chapters represent all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam and Rota.

FFA is a diverse oganization, operating in rural, urban and suburban schools. Students aged 12-21 enrolled in agricultural education programs are eligible for membership. The Jackson FFA is currently one of the largest FFA chapters in Missouri with 176 members.

The FFA Mission is: "FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education."

To accomplish this mission, the Jackson FFA does the following

* Develops competent and assertive agricultural leadership. -Increases awareness of the global and technological importance of agriculture and its contribution to our well-being.

* Strengthens the confidence of agriculture students in themselves and their work.

* Promotes the intelligent choice and establishment of an agricultural career.

* Encourages achievement in supervised agricultural experience programs.

* Encourages wise management of economic, environmental and human resources of the community.

* Develops interpersonal skills in teamwork, communications, human relations and social interaction,

*Builds character and promotes citizenship, volunteerism and patriotism. -

* Promotes cooperation and cooperative attitudes among all people.

* Promote healthy lifestyles.

* Encourages excellence in scholarship.

The Jackson FFA will accomplish these objectives through the following activities: FFA Leadership Camp, National and State Conventions, Contest Teams, FFA Week Activities, Officer Training, Monthly Meetings, and Participating in the SEMO Fair.

The Jackson FFA also coordinates various recreational activities for its members such as the Barn Warming Dance, Ice Cream Social, and Softball Tournament. The Jackson FFA also has several fundraisers to support the chapter functions, these include Fruit Sales, working with Jaycee's Haunted House, and Candy Sales.

Greg Meier Jackson FFA President