The Mission of the National Young Farmer Educational Association is to promote the personal and professional development of all people in agriculture. P.O. Box 20326; Montgomery, Al 36120 Telephone - 334-288-0097 Fax - 34-288-0097 Email - nyfea@mindspring.com Webpage - www.nyfea.org NYFEA Leadership Handbook NYFEA Leadership Handbook For advisors, mentors, chapter leaders, organization leaders and Ag Leaders Club Members. The purpose of this handbook is to serve as a resource for individuals participating in agricultural organization leadership. It should be helpful for the instructional leadership role. Contents include: -NYFEA General Information -NYFEA Membership Opportunities -Upcoming Events -Programs for Members Ed Programs Contest Guidelines Community Service Handout; Web Page Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card Ag Leaders Club EAA Degree Recognition -Classroom Support -Mentor’s Manual NYFEA GENERAL INFORMATION NYFEA - QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: Information for young farmers and ag leaders. Thank you for the opportunity to explain the exciting opportunities in adult agricultural education. The following “questions and answer” breakdown provides a description of key NYFEA activities. We are proud of the organizational goals to build and promote personal and professional development in the agricultural community. We encourage all agricultural people to join our family of leaders. What Is NYFEA? NYFEA, which is short for the National Young Farmer Educational Association, originated as an organization serving beginning farmers around the country. NYFEA is proud of its tradition of providing educational opportunities to aspiring farmers and is excited about its expanded mission to provide leadership development, career enhancement and community service programs. Presently, NYFEA serves over 15,000 local, state and/or national participants in 35 states. Members may join on an individual basis. All members receive the opportunity to participate in training seminars, web-based career development programs, fun-filled contests, community service projects and two national meetings. What Is The Current Membership of NYFEA? Dues paying membership is approximately 5,000. This figure is based on rosters presented to the national office. NYFEA presently provides programs and services to over 15,000 participants in approximately 35 states. What Is The Current Level Of Participation in NYFEA? The total number of people experiencing the benefits of the national association is calculated by adding the number of local, state and national members participating in the internet programs, educational seminars, contests and service projects. The participant number is approximately 15,000. How Does NYFEA Accomplish Its Goals Of Continuing Education, Career Development And Community Service? “Education for American Agriculture”(EAA) is the organization’s educational plan. It serves multiple functions. The EAA plan is based on formal instruction and application which encourages participants to progress from learning to active service. Presently, NYFEA has leadership seminars and internet training programs for members to access. What Is Highlighted In Educational Programs? The “Education for American Agriculture” (EAA) programs meet the needs of NYFEA members. The courses, contests and service projects provide sound learning opportunities. The TEAM LEAD strategy is a tool used to encourage local people to work together to support agricultural education. The Members And Mentors Award helps encourage new and beginning farmers. The Certified Agricultural Professional program helps teach specific, monthly updated courses designed to enhance "pocketbook" success and strengthen agricultural careers. Call 334-288-0097 to order. Can Anybody Join? Yes, any individual with an interest in adult agricultural education can belong to the organization by paying the $15 dues. Corporations may join for $1000. What Is The Ag Leaders Club? NYFEA has developed a special participation category where individuals can receive an accelerated number of benefits. The cost is $100 per year. One benefit includes a commission payment for new member recruiting. What Is The National Advisor Association (NAA)? An organized effort to support the classroom environment. The cost is $150 per year per advisor association. The advisor association gets curriculum support, training videos, discount programs, etc. What Are The Tax Benefits Associated With NYFEA? NYFEA is a 501-c-3 organization with all the benefits allowed for tax deductible contributions. What Are The Long-Term Goals Of NYFEA? The long-term goal of the organization is to train ag professionals through an adult learning program. NYFEA is recognized by the United States government as the official adult student organization for agricultural education. Our goal is to provide the finest career development, community service and young farmer recruitment program in agriculture. NYFEA desires to train the leaders who are going to make a difference in their local, community, state and nation. What Are The Membership Benefits? - An opportunity to participate in an annual career development and community service conference. This twoday, summer program features educational training, fun activities, community service, recognition programs, etc. - A chance to participate in a network of farmers represented by members in every state. - A regular and consistent communication program delivering insightful information that stimulates the members: “Leader for Agriculture”, “Updates” and/or internet briefings. - The annual Institute and National Ag Leadership Conference feature multiple educational programs, contests, numerous service projects, trade shows, etc. The meetings bring people together to develop the friendships necessary to facilitate networking and learning from each other. - A national degree program to identify those people who have excelled. - An organizational structure that supports agricultural learning. NYFEA also assists states and other organizations in agricultural education, as all work to promote agriculture. - Members benefit from discount coupons, like the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card, fund raising programs, travel, (leadership training) newsletters, press releases on agriculture, internet programs, etc. What Is Agricultural Education's Greatest Need? Presently, ag ed needs core groups of adults in all 50 states who are willing to take an active support role. NYFEA The National Young Farmer Educational Association and its division, the National Ag Leaders Club. Programs, Services and Opportunities for Young Farmers and Ag Leaders Look for us on the web: www.nyfea.org NYFEA is an association committed to Educating Agricultural Leaders and is recognized by the United States Department of Education as the official student organization for adult education in agriculture. The association is preparing young farmers and ag leaders, including college students and adults of all ages, to succeed in today’s agricultural climate. Educational Programs - NYFEA offers a menu of leadership training and professional development opportunities. Contests - Challenging contests are provided to strengthen individual skills through competition. Community Service - Projects are available so individuals/chapters can take an active role in the local community. They support improving agricultural awareness Leadership Degrees - Degrees are offered to recognize members who excel in a variety of programs. Communications and Travel - Updated information on conventions and leadership conferences is provided in newsletters, magazines and on the web at nyfea.org. Membership Programs - Different levels of participation for individuals, and corporations are available. Membership benefits include the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card. Members And Members Award and Certified Agricultural Professionals - Programs designed to encourage and support young ag professionals with “pocket book” impact. NYFEA with its division, the Ag Leaders Club, serves members across the country by offering them leadership training, professional/career skill development, and community service opportunities. Members are agricultural producers, agribusiness persons, ag enthusiasts, college ag students and consumers seeking to solidify the future of America’s food and fiber system. With its origin as an organization serving beginning farmers, NYFEA is proud of its tradition of training aspiring farmers. Today, NYFEA is excited about its expanded menu of services providing leadership development, career training, fun-filled competitions, travel opportunities, communication pieces and community service programs to a variety of constituents. Address NYFEA - P. O. Box 20326 - Montgomery, AL 36120 p/fax 334-288-0097 00/Brochure/Prgs-Opportunities br00.pub 6/18/00 Earn a Degree LEADERSHIP DEGREE MANAGEMENT DEGREE INSTRUCTOR DEGREE COMMUNITY SERVICE (BLUE) *: PIZZA PARTY, ADOPT - A - CLASS, EXCHANGE PROGRAM, ISSUES SEMINARS, ETC. (Part 3 of 3) CONTESTS & TRAVEL (RED)*: FARM MANAGEMENT, ESSAY, PHOTO, OFFICER, INSTITUTE, TOURS, ETC. (Part 2 of 3) GREEN (300) + RED (300) + BLUE (300) + MISC (100) = DEGREE (1000) Participation in service projects are worth 100 points per project. Once a total of 300 or 400 points has been earned, the requirements for the degree have been met. Activities can only be counted once a year. Local, state & national service is eligible. Firestone Ag Tire presents The EAA Degree Program: Education for American Agriculture (EAA) is the long range plan of work. It is a systematic approach to teaching, practicing and applying information. If a member has completed a series of educational courses, participated in a range of contests or activities and performed community service, then he/she will be recognized through the presentation of a degree. Register your activity to earn a DEGREE Sponsor: Firestone Ag Tire Company Name _________________________________________ Address ______________________________________ ______________________________________________ EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS (GREEN)*: SUBJECTS - HANDLING STRESS, TIME MANAGEMENT, SELF CONFIDENCE, ATTITUDES, ETC. (Part 1 of 3) * Additional service projects, contests, and courses may be approved by presenting them to the National. Once an individual has completed approved courses in the approved subject areas then he/ she will receive the 300 or 400 points needed to earn the degree. Each of the subjects is valued at 100 points. For participating in any of the approved contests and activities the member will earn the assigned points. Once a total of 300 or 400 points has been earned, the requirements for the degree have been met. Activities can only be counted once a year. Local, state & national service is eligible. Phone _________________ Fax __________________ 1. Activity Participated In: )_____________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Date _________ Purpose ______________________ ___________________________________________ Witness ____________________________________ 2. Activity Participated In: _____________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Date ___________ Purpose ____________________ ___________________________________________ Witness ____________________________________ Mail to: Part 1of 3 needed for a degree N Y F E A E D U C A T I O N P R O G A M S Leaders understand the importance of time management. PERSONAL ORGANIZATIONAL POWER This program focuses on techniques for saving time in the personal and professional life. Learn to deal with time wasters, handle people who waste time, manage paper and paper stacks, deal with decision makers, avoid procrastination and burn out. Learn “how to” increase effectiveness through better communication and save time by increasing listening skills. This session is perfect for the person who seems have more “to do’s” and not enough “to do” Learn to build a team by applying techniques as a manager, mentor... THE MANAGEMENT ALTERNATIVE This program concentrates on developing the four alternative styles of managing interactions with others. Learn to manage and motivate other people to peak performance. Learn to deal effectively with problem people, counsel for success and stimulate greater levels of productivity from groups. This is an explosive program and one which will unlock countless management and leadership techniques. Communication is the key to the long term success of any business. THE COMPLETE COMMUNICATOR Everyone can improve their communication skills and this session focuses on techniques for improved written (visual), oral (auditory), and face-to-face (kinesthetic) interactions. Learn “how to” become a complete communicator and increase your persuasive skills for immediate life success. This session will improve communication which leads to better decision making. Managing negativity in your life and dealing with difficult people. POWER CHARGED FOR LIFE - A CHAMPIONSHIP ATTITUDE A powerful session on “how to” manage,eliminate, cope and avoid negative, stressful situations and people. This session will assist participants in better understanding the valuable techniques and strategies for neutralizing and interacting with others. Learn “how to” stimulate positive outcomes within yourself and among others- personally and professionally- in the face of conflict and confrontation. Making the decision to be a leader is simple. Learning to be a leader requires a constant search for and application of new ideas. It requires people to look at the issues impacting their lives and to identify the areas where improvement is necessary. Young Farmer NYFEA is pleased to offer participants the opportunity to progress to the next level in leadership training. This brochure & Ag Leader Educational Seminars contains a limited list of NYFEA sponsored training programs. These are offered in seminars that can be tailored to fit time slots from two to six hours. Further, abbreviated lessions are available on the internet at www.nyfea.org. ALL ARE OFFERED AT GREATLY REDUCED RATES. To order follow these simple steps: 1) Select a topic. 2) Call NYFEA. 3) P. O. Box 20326 NYFEA will inform you of the participation procedure. For example, if the interest is in hosting a program NYFEA will Montgomery, Al provide manuals, make travel arrangements, book the presenter, provide certificates for participants and provide for program 36120 evaluation. All that is required is for the host to provide a room for the program and any fees and travel that may be needed for the presenter. Also, participants may register their actions and earn points toward a NYFEA leadership degree. www.nyfea.org Leadership Seminar Interest Name _____________________ Address __________________ __________________ Send info on seminars: ____ Power Charged For Life ____ Personal Organizational Power ____ The Management Alternative ____ The Complete Communicator ____ Provide info on videos that may be ordered. Mail to: NYFEA; Box 20326; Montgomery, AL 36120 A program of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) and its division, the National Ag Leaders Club. P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 —- 334-288-0097 Improve your leadership skills and help build a stronger community. NYFEA is proud to present this series of leadership training programs. They are designed to help individuals develop their God given talents to the fullest. The programs offer helpful ideas that can be applied in the many different environments and challenges that face America’s farmers and ag leaders. For outstanding training seminars, NYFEA realizes the importance of having a dynamic, proven presenter. That is why the association is excited to have Jeff Magee as its feature presenter. Magee is a presenter of over 200 annual programs. He makes presentations for major companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Kimberly Clark, Hyatt Hotels, Coopers and Lybrand, American Express, General Motors, General Electric, Westinghouse, Walmart, etc. Growing up on a farm, Magee recognizes the importance of the agricultural community. It is easy to see why he is a great fit for ag leaders and NYFE A. Part 2of 3 needed for N Y F E A Letting the general public know what farmers think. SPOKESPERSON FOR AGRICULTURE PROGRAM and CONTEST The spokesperson program encourages American agriculturalists to practice their communication skills by delivering a prepared speech, writing agriculturally positive letters and informing the media about agriculture. The national winner will be selected after a series of statewide qualifying rounds. Three national winners are selected at the annual NYFEA convention in December. Winners give the best speech, answer questions well and provide the best represe ntation of agriculture. An opportunity to let the world know what you think. AG EXPRESSIONS PROGRAM By expressing their feelings about agriculture, participants encourage an appreciation for the quality and quantity of food available in the United States. Winners are selected for the best written composition. Categories are youth, member and consumer essay and anyone may participate. . Let others see the world through your eyes. C O N T E S T S PHOTO CONTEST A contest that enhances agriculture by inspiring photography of the farms, ag businesses, etc. NYFEA will utilize the photos to educate the general public about the issues facing agriculture. Winners will be selected for presenting both the best message and the best picture. Any member may enter. Recognize those successful farm managers. Each chapter has good farm managers. By attending the Institute these managers are eligible to complete for cash prizes. Points are awarded based on the application of business techniques. Think you’re a good farm business manager. Prove it. FARM AND RANCH MANAGEMENT CONTEST Individual participants may enroll in this contest. The contest provides an opportunity for individuals to test their management skills. By competing in the contest, participants will apply economic, marketing and management principles to making decisions and analyzing the total farm business. The winner will score the highest on a written exam. Young Farmer & Ag Leader Contests Box 20326 Montgomery, Al 36120 Making the decision to be a leader is simple. Learning to be a leader involves practicing and applying new ideas. NYFEA is pleased to offer participants the opportunity to progress to the next level in leadership training. This brochure contains a list of NYFEA sponsored contests that recognize ag people for practicing and applying leadership skills. Follow these simple steps : 1) Select a contest 2) Call NYFEA for information on enrolling. 3) NYFEA will inform you of the participation procedure. Full explanations of the contest requirements may be found at www.nyfea.org. For example, if the interest is in participating in the spokesperson, community service, outstanding member or reporter contest; NYFEA will tell you how to participate in one of the qualifying rounds. Plus, since everyone is eligible for the photo, farm management or essay contests; NYFEA will tell you how www.nyfea.org to register and qualify to win. Interested participants should notify NYFEA before September 1. Contest Interest Form Name _____________________ Address __________________ __________________ Send info on the following contests: ____ Farm Plan ____ Ag Expressions ____ Photo ____ Chapter Community Service ____ Spokesperson for Agriculture ____ Reporter of the Year ____ Farm and Ranch Management ____ Outstanding Member Mail to: NYFEA; Box 20326; A program of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) and its division, the Ag Leaders Club. P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 —- 334-288-0097 Have a great local club? Recognize your leaders. SCRAPBOOK / REPORTER OF THE YEAR Each state may have one nominee who submits informative stories about local adult ag ed activities. Selection of the state nominee will be done on the local level. The contest provides a means for documenting creative projects and programs. The winner is determined based on who displays the greatest skill in documenting the work of agricultural education in the local area. OUTSTANDING MEMBER A program honoring the top members from each state affiliate. States select their winners and submit the names to NYFEA for recognition. CHAPTER COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT OF THE YEAR Every local chapter is eligible to submit a community service project. Winners will be selected for hosting creative projects that accomplish significant good for their local area. Projects generate a positive image for agriculture. Part 3of 3 needed for a degree Letting the general public know about the productivity of agriculture and encouraging our children. N Y F E A WHEELBARROW RACE FOR HUNGER This program is designed to promote the bounty of agriculture. The idea is to host a community service project to contribute food to local food banks. Local organizations will host community service projects that will provide food for hungry children while delivering the a positive message to the general public about America’s bountiful food supply. The role of the farmer as the producer of the food will be promoted. Let children know that food does not originate in grocery stores. C O M M U N I T Y PIZZA PARTY This program is designed to provide farmers and agribusiness persons the opportunity to work closely with an elementary class at school. The program also provides insight into the role of the farmer in producing the food. The program is designed to inform children about the origin of the food they eat. Let others grow and experience agriculture through farm visits. AGRICULTURAL EXCHANGE The purpose of this project is to provide information that will support the role of agriculture as an integral part of the overall business and economic community. It will also provide high school students the opportunity to experience a wonderful message about the positive impact of agriculture. S E R V I C E Young Farmer & Ag Leader Community Service Box 20326 Montgomery, Al 36120 taking agriculture to the school children. ADOPT - A - CLASS This program is designed to provide farmers and agribusiness persons the opportunity to work closely with a junior high class at a local school. The program provides students insight into the origin of the food they consume and the role of the farmer in producing the food. In addition, the program is designed to support the role of agriculture in the education process. Making the decision to be a leader is simple. Learning to be a leader involves practicing and applying new ideas. NYFEA is pleased to offer participants the opportunity to progress to the next level in leadership training. This brochure contains a list of NYFEA sponsored community service projects that allow ag people to apply their leadership skills. Follow these simple steps: 1) Select a project or topic. 2) Call NYFEA or look us up on the web at www.nyfea.org. 3) NYFEA will inform you of the participation procedure. For example, if the interest is in hosting a program NYFEA can provide a manual that will walk participants through the simple steps needed to complete the work. The community service handbooks are available on the internet at no cost to members. Plus, participating in these projects will qualify the chapters to compete in the community service award program. Also, participants may register their actions and earn points toward a NYFEA leadership degree. www.nyfea.org Community Service Interest Name _____________________ Address __________________ __________________ Send info on the following community service projects: ____ Pizza Party ____ Ag Exchange ____ Adopt - A - Class ____ Wheelbarrow Race for Hunger Send info on the following topics: ____ Ag Literacy ____ In School Support ____ Hungry & Homeless Relief ____ Food Safety Mail to: NYFEA; Box 20326; Montgomery, AL 36120 A program of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) and its division, the National Ag Leaders Club. - www.nyfea.org P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 — 334-288-0097 Have a desire to help others and strengthen your community at the same time? When the truth is revealed, people begin to realize that opportunities are not equal for every person. Unfortunately, society has people who suffer from illiteracy, are without homes and are in need of food. The list of needy people is endless. American history is marked by people who sacrificed for the causes in which they believed. People fought in wars to preserve the land of freedom. One of the greatest freedoms afforded the American people has always been the privilege of owning land. Throughout the development of the country; owning, farming, grazing and otherwise utilizing land has been a vital component in the American economic formula. The next century provides many challenges to the causes of the American farmer. The strength of the nation hinges on people being healthy. The correlation between a healthy population and a successful nation can be easily related to the availability of safe, nutritious food for people to eat. As more and more of America’s agricultural practices are being regulated, farmers must recognize that it is critical for them to share the good stories of American agriculture. Children are a primary audience because they are the future. How to experience NYFEA? Seeing new sights, attending training programs, super entertainment ... WINTER INSTITUTE The winter institute offers the opportunity to gather with other agricultural people to compare their methods of production, and marketing of products. It provides the chance to tour agriculture of the local area, hear motivational speakers, be entertained by famous presenters and attend leadership and business training programs. It provides the opportunity to build a network of friends from around the country. C O M M U N I C A T I O N Have a fun diversion while learning new leadership skills. NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE (SUMMER) The conference provides an opportunity for agriculturalists to better understand each other, attend leadership training sessions, participate in a fun event like a golf tournament, attend a cultural event, etc. This session also provides an opportunity for delegates to conduct the business of the association. Learn about NYFEA through the internet. NYFEA.ORG An eyeopening experience that allows American agricultural producers and business persons the opportunity to stay in touch with current leadership training and community service material & Highlighting ag issues and delivering indepth leadership training. “THE LEADER FOR AGRICULTURE” MAGAZINE Offered regularly depending on advertiser dollars and member contributions. Features stories about members, emphasizes how they are accomplishing the mission. Contains articles about future events and leadership opportunities. T R A V E L Young Farmer & Ag Leader Communication & Travel Box 20326 Montgomery, Al 36120 www.nyfea.org Insightful articles on current organizational activity. “UPDATE” NEWSLETTER Offered regularly to all members. Keeps members informed on the current events of NYFEA. Product Delivery through Travel TRAVEL RELATED - At the annual WINTER INSTITUTE and NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE (SUMMER), NYFEA delivers educational programs, contests and service opportunities. Educational seminars, tours, videos and first hand experience are the most common means of providing the information. At the Institute and NALC contests are conducted and service projects are illustrated. Learning to be a leader involves practicing and applying new ideas. NYFEA is pleased to offer its core programs and services through these first hand experiences. Communication and Travel Interest Form Name ____________________________ A program of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) and its division, the National Ag Leaders Club. - www.nyfea.org P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 — 334-288-0097 Address __________________________ ______________________________ Send info on the following programs: ____ “The Leader for Agriculture” magazine ____ “Update” Newsletter ____ NYFEA Institute ____ National Agricultural Leadership Conference Product Delivery through Services With the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card (PDVCDC), NYFEA is pleased to provide members the opportunity to save up to 65% on the cost of medicine and eyewear. The question of “what do I get for my $15 dues” is truly answered by this program. Serving the community and agriculture at the same time. How to join NYFEA? NATIONAL AG LEADERS CLUB (individual membership) An individual desiring an opportunity to compete in an advanced benefits program may join the National Ag Leaders Club. This program offers the opportunity for the individual members to receive additional savings. Dental, legal and hearing care are just a few of the many, many saving opportunities. The program will also enhance the professional development of the individual and the effectiveness of the group. The dues are $100.00 a year. N Y F E A An introduction to leadership training and community service. NYFEA REGULAR MEMBERSHIP (individual membership) A participant in this category will receive the newsletter, access to programs and membership benefits like the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card for the $15 membership cost. The magazine, educational seminars, community service projects, annual leadership conference and annual Institute (convention) are available. Members in this category are also able to participate in the degree programs. M E M B E R S H I P Making a lifetime commitment to support agricultural education. NYFEA LIFE MEMBERSHIP (individual membership) An individual who wants to have lifetime access to the magazine, the annual leadership conference and the annual convention will find this available for the one time of contribution of $300. They receive the full benefits of a regular member. Corporate participants will find benefits that will enhance their businesses. CORPORATE MEMBERS Corporate members are eligible to show their commitment for the cause of adult education. A $1000 annual contribution will allow them the chance for exposure in each issue of the magazine, “The Leader for Agriculture” and on the web at www.nyfea.org. MEMBERS AND MENTORS AWARD/CERTIFIED AGRICULTURAL PROFESSIONALS To encouraging new and/or beginning farmers, participants can serve as NYFEA mentors. Mentors will work with young agriculturalists (mentorees) to help advance their professional development through a “big brother / big sister” network. the mentorees will be granted free organizational membership for two years (based on available sponsorship). Plus, mentorees are automatically enrolled in America’s first certification program for agricultural professionals. Young Farmer & Ag Leader Membership Opportunities P. O. Box 20326 Montgomery, Al 36120 Members are the lifeblood of an organization. NYFEA has designed a membership program for people of all ages. Each program fits the NYFEA mission to provide continuing education to the agricultural community and to motivate the participants to serve others. Membership costs are intentionally low to provide broader access to the programs. The goals of NYFEA’s programs are: 1) to strengthen agricultural professional development on the local level throughout America by encouraging people to participate in service activities. 2) to provide opportunities for all members, to be ag leaders. 3) to provide a national network for mentoring and supporting the next generation of farmers. www.nyfea.org A program of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) and its division, the National Ag Leaders Club. P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 — 334-288-0097 Membership Opportunities Interest Form Name _______________________________ Address ___________________________ ___________________________ ____ Send info on the following: ____ Enclosed are my dues for: National Ag Leaders Club NYFEA Regular Member NYFEA Life Member Corporate Member National Advisor/Association Subscripton program ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____________________________________ signature Mail to: Local organizations provide fun and learning! NATIONAL ADVISOR/ASSOCIATION SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions may be obtained each year by simply organizing a group of five or more individuals having a chapter with 10 or more active, annual dues paying members or by paying $150. The advisor receives curriculum support packages, 15 Members And Mentors Award programs, a training video and much more. Associations are also eligible for a subscription program. They should have a contact person to serve in the role of advisor. Benefits include movie savings, webpassword and learning-support materials for the instructor. NYFEA - FACT SHEET We provide this overview for our friends and sponsors. I. PURPOSE AND HISTORY NYFEA, which is short for the National Young Farmer Educational Association, is proud to be an association that educates agricultural leaders. It is a leadership training, business skill development and community service organization. NYFEA provides a systematic approach to adult education and updated information on the latest advancements in leadership training. NYFEA further provides opportunities for individuals to use their knowledge to serve others through community service projects. NYFEA has adopted a long-range educational plan entitled “Education for American Agriculture” (EAA). This dynamic undertaking provides seminars and conferences to train individuals in leadership and business management. EAA provides activities such as competitions and contests that allow individuals to apply what they have learned. The association sponsors community service projects to assist the general public in understanding more about agriculture. Specifically, the NYFEA service programs are designed to increase agricultural awareness in America’s children. The association seeks to provide support for children by helping them understand the importance of agriculture. Finally, NYFEA recognizes individuals who participate in this educational plan by providing NYFEA degrees and numerous national awards. When the constant changes in the agricultural economy are considered, NYFEA’s programs become even more important. The wellbeing of each agricultural person is affected by decisions made at all levels of agriculture. Therefore, NYFEA encourages membership of agricultural producers, agribusinesses and consumers. Anyone with an interest in natural resources, the environment, food safety, etc. is welcome. In 1982, NYFEA was incorporated as a non-profit, non-political, educational association for agriculture. An office was established in central Illinois. In January 1987, the office was moved to Alexandria, Virginia, in the National FFA Center. Most recently, the national office was relocated to Montgomery, Alabama, where it remains. As early as May 23, 1985, the Assistant Secretary for Vocational and Adult Education officially recognized NYFEA as an integral part of adult education in agriculture. NYFEA has remained a part of the policy of the U.S. Department of Education in revisions and updates. II. MEMBERSHIP Presently, NYFEA serves 15,000 people with activity at the national, state, and local level. Participation is open to all interested individuals. The association places a major emphasis on programs training young agricultural leaders, developing agribusiness management skills, supporting children and assisting with community development. According to a study completed in 1992, the average NYFEA member’s farm size was 933 acres with an average annual farm income of $134,603.00. When the data were compared to the 1987 Census of Agriculture, Agricultural Atlas of the United States (1990) the following observations were made: NYFEA members were approximately 12 years younger than the national average for farmers. They operated farms more than twice the size of the national average and had a large investment in land and buildings. The average value of agricultural products sold by NYFEA members was more than twice the national average. NYFEA members had a higher level of educational attainment when compared to the average American farmer. The study further showed the main reason for participation was for leadership education, business skill training and the opportunity to serve others. Members aspire to become leaders and entrepreneurs building a stronger agriculture for all of America. III. STRUCTURE, ORGANIZATION NYFEA is organized on the national level to provide consistent, difference-making opportunities for members. The presence of the national organization allows for sponsors, advertisers, instructors and others to participate in quality programs that maximize the return on the dollar for all participants. States are encouraged to organize and be represented at the national level through the delegate assembly. The number of delegates provided is based on the membership strength of the state organization. The delegate assembly annually selects a national secretary and national president-elect who serve on the board of directors. Other members of the board include: president, past president, national institute/convention chair, immediate future institute chair, a representative from the state executives, a representative from the National Association of Agricultural Educators, a representative from the American Association of Agricultural Educators, a representative from the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education, a member representing the Young Farmer Founders Committee (the organization’s fund raising arm), a member representing the Ag Leaders Club (the advanced membership group), a representative of the corporate community from the President’s Council, and the National Advisor from the U.S. Department of Education. The fifteen-member board in conjunction with the delegate assembly is the governing body of the association. The executive vice president is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the association. The association also has advisory/fund raising boards. The President’s Council, a corporate entity, meets twice annually to assist in the development and growth of the organization. The Council of Ag Leaders and the Young Farmer Founders Committee are bodies formed of select members who serve in an advisory/fund raising capacity. IV. ANNUAL BUDGET AND CORPORATE INVOLVEMENT The total budget is approximately $250,000. Of this amount, a major portion comes from corporate sponsorship. NYFEA maintains reduced membership dues in an attempt to make it accessible to all interested individuals. Fund raising activities are conducted by the general membership, NYFEA development staff, a corporate fund raiser and the National FFA Foundation. Among the projects funded through philanthropic participation are: Spokesperson Program, Farm and Ranch Management Program, Grant for Innovative Activities, “The Leader for Agriculture”, EAA Recognition Program, NYFEA Degrees, educational seminars and Institute programs. V. PROGRAMS AND BENEFITS THROUGH NYFEA The following is a list of programs and benefits a member receives for paying dues. A. Educational Seminars and Conferences - NYFEA has numerous educational seminars and conferences (with others in the works) that can be delivered to individuals around the country. These conferences and seminars may be designed to provide an overview of the material or an intensive study (depending on the time allowed). Programs are designed to develop leadership and provide business management training. The most popular programs are: 1. Personal Organizational Power A seminar covering the issues of time management 2. The Management Alternative. A seminar covering issues concerning the manager, mentor, counselor & coach. It teaches techniques for team building. 3. The Complete Communicator A seminar covering performance driven communication. 4. Attitudes A seminar teaching tricks for managing negativity and dealing with difficult people. B. Spokesperson for Agriculture Program - provides an opportunity for communication to both the agricultural sector and the consuming public. From the local chapters to the national winners, this program touches every member. Spokespersons communicate the message of agriculture to the public. C. Farm and Ranch Management Program - provides an opportunity for individuals to test their business skills. The management techniques are learned through the educational programs of the organization. D. “The Leader for Agriculture” - is one of the organization’s communications links to the members. The magazine is sent to each NYFEA household. It is also sent to the corporate community and prospective young farmers and/or ag leaders. E. “Young Farmer and Ag Leaders UPDATE” - this newsletter is printed at least four times annually to provide current leadership information to the members. It serves as a motivator for participation in organizational events. .Grants for Innovative Programs - has been established to encourage creative means for developing NYFEA educational programs, contests and service activities. To this date, almost 30 grants have been awarded to assist in building a stronger adult agricultural educational network. .Farm Plan Program - provides an opportunity for members to test their knowledge about farm planning. Having a good plan is the key to achieving goals, this program emphasizes planning. H. The EAA Recognition Program - is designed to allow NYFEA to recognize those members who have participated regularly in NYFEA activities. It provides for the distribution of degrees to those members who have completed a designated number of educational programs, contests and community service projects. I. Community Service Projects - NYFEA is proud to offer handbooks providing step by step instructions on organizing a local event. The projects allow individuals to promote agriculture. Projects deal with issues like hunger, ag literacy, ag in the classroom, consumer awareness, media apathy, and children’s education programs. J. Ag Leaders Club - NYFEA is pleased to introduce an advanced participation program. This club provides a menu of leadership training programs and service activities that can be performed on the local level by the individual. This club provides regular communication, a leadership handbook, mentoring opportunities and advanced discounts. VI. NATIONAL INSTITUTE/NATIONAL AG LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE The NYFEA meetings held annually serve three major purposes: A. Education - Through workshops, seminars and trade shows, members have the opportunity refine their leadership skills, business management techniques, knowledge about technological advancements, etc. B. National Association Business - Delegate business sessions are conducted at each convention. Also, national officers are elected at these sessions. C. Showcase local agriculture, agribusiness and culture - Agricultural industry tours are offered as well as tours of local farms, museums and historical sites. In addition, motivational speakers and entertainers are a part of the program. VII. EDUCATION FOR AMERICAN AGRICULTURE In 1991, through its delegate body, NYFEA developed a mission statement and educational strategic plan. As discussed earlier in this report, the strategic plan covers three basic components: learning, practicing and applying. NYFEA members believe that the organization should enhance the opportunities of people to be successful while at the same time share the blessings that they have been provided. NYFEA is proud of the “Education for American Agriculture” plan and the numerous activities that are ongoing as a result of it. This educational strategic plan results in members receiving degrees either in leadership, management or instruction for their hard work. VIII. LOCAL EMPHASIS AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT (LEAD) In 1998, NYFEA and its delegates developed a strategic marketing plan. LEAD provides the organization with tools it needs to strengthen the overall understanding of programs and to develop the resources needed to implement these programs. IX. MEMBERS AND MENTORS AWARD (MAMA) The MAMA program provides a "big brother/big sister" style network for the next generation of agriculturalists. By assigning current members to individuals who are aspiring to enter agricultural careers, NYFEA provides encouragement and real-world educational feedback. Through MAMA the future of agriculture is enhanced. X. CERTIFIED AGRICULTURAL PROFESSIONALS The association is offering a web-based career enhancement program. By identifying learning issues that are critical to successful farm and agribusiness careers and offering a systematic way for people to participate, NYFEA offers individual members a way to be recognized on a national level as a "professional". NYFEA envision this program to be equivalent to the Bar Exam or Certified Public Accountant program. Completion of a series of training exercises will earn the certification. XI. MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS (MONEY SAVERS) While the educational and service programs are beneficial, the association also offers a package of money saving programs. The Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card allows NYFEA members to receive as much as 65% of the cost of prescription drugs and eyewear products. Introduced in 1999 this program has more than answered the question: "What do I get for the $15 dues?" fact sheet00. 6/15/00 Membership Resources . National Advisor/Association Subscription Program ORGANIZATIONAL MANUAL NAAS is a program of NYFEA Mission of NYFEA - To promote the personal and professional growth of all people in agriculture NAAS Objectives - To strengthen the success potential of local organizations through participation in leadership training, organized community service activities and career development learning. To have a national organization providing the tools that local organizations need to be successful. To strengthen all of agricultural education by supporting learning in organized local associations that are committed to educating all agricultural people. To provide subscribers with benefits like newsletters, handbooks on service projects/chapter contests, and a discount program card for each local leader. Why Contact NYFEA? It is through participation in projects that support the local community that a group can find real meaning. NAAS subscribers are encouraged to promote community involvement. NAAS will stimulate support for agriculture because the service projects will help others understand the challenges facing today's agricultural producers. NAAS contest participation will promote agriculture because the contests are designed to strengthen individual skills and/or show the value of agriculture to the community. By affiliating with NYFEA, a local advisor/association leader can access handbooks that are designed to help them train people to host community services projects and conduct the contests. NAAS can also be a valuable source of leadership information for local members. Educational programs for developing personal skills are accessible. Farmers and agribusiness leaders do not have enough hours in the day to operate their businesses and, at the same time, sharpen their skills as promoters, negotiators, communicators, time managers, etc. NYFEA will provide a valuable service by offering career development opportunities to NAAS subscribers. Participants also benefit from a discount program. Individuals using the product have saved as much as 65% off the cost of eyewear. $100 of savings is commonly achieved. Subscription Information ELIGIBILITY: Subscriptions are available to any advisor/association interested in organizing to support agriculture. Local groups receive newsletters, invitations to the national meetings and individual educational and service project materials. The NAAS subscription is a twelve-month period beginning March 15. Subscriptions received in January and February will be credited with the coming year. The annual subscription cost is $150. LEADERSHIP ROSTERS: Rosters of 15 Members and Mentors Award participants are to be mailed to the national office each year by the local organization. LOCAL DISTRICTS: NAAS subscriptions may be set-up on a school, county, or other geographic basis. NYFEA is committed to working through state organizations. It is the goal of NYFEA to assist in the development of local chapters and then to encourage the establishment of a state network. TO SUCCEED WITH A LOCAL ORGANIZATION - Know that NYFEA will assist NAAS. Steps to success: 1. Annually submit a mailing roster of 15 Members and Mentors Award participants to NYFEA, 2. Send subscription fees to the national, and 3. Have a designated chairperson. NYFEA - What are the membership requirements? What is a membership profile? NYFEA is an educational and service organization for all people. There are no constraints to affiliating with NYFEA except a willingness to learn and to promote agriculture. NYFEA does not lobby. NYFEA is open to all people regardless of age, sex, and race. NYFEA is aimed at all people, those in farming occupations, agribusiness careers and jobs outside of agriculture who wish to actively support the food, fiber and shelter system. For instance, parents of FFA members, former FFA participants, Farm Bureau members, Farmers Federation (especially Young Farmer) members, commodity organization participants, etc. are welcome. All agricultural groups should establish cooperative relationships. How To Organize A Chapter (When a Local Organization Does Not Currently Exist)? STEP 1. Lay the Foundation - SELECT A TEAM OF LEADERS. A strong, well-organized, local group begins with a solid leadership base. Three to five interested individuals can be the key to starting on sound footing. One suggestion for identifying the leadership team is to involve the leadership of the other ag organizations in your area. STEP 2. Organize the Leadership Team - CALL AN ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING. Once the individuals for the leadership team are selected, call them together for an organizational meeting. At this meeting, a framework should be established from which the local chapter can be developed. Make use of the NYFEA materials. The agenda for this "Leadership Committee" meeting may include: 1. Discussing the purpose and benefits of a local chapter. 2. Reviewing the education and service offerings. 3. Discuss the potential savings with the benefits. 4. Select a chair. 5. Decide upon a time, date and place for annual meeting. (It should be within two months of the organizational meeting). 6. List potential participants and divide up the responsibility for contacting. 7. Complete the national application prior to the organizational meeting. 8. A motion to establish the chapter is then in order. 9. A vice chair and treasure may be elected. 10. Local ues should be established. The national subscription fee is $150.00. 11. Set the next meeting. STEP 3. DETERMINE IF A SERVICE PROJECT IS A GOOD IDEA. MAKE A SERVICE PROJECT KNOWN TO THE COMMUNITY. Secure publicity for the service project. Good publicity underscores the importance of the project and of the organization. 1. Give your plans to the local newspaper and local radio. Ask them to announce the service project and invite all interested participants to join the organizational effort. 2. Telephone contact by the "leadership committee" is desirable as a means of recruiting additional participants in the project. 3. Personal contacts get the best results, so visit as many potential participants as possible. The more people are aware of the project, the more enthusiasm you can generate. STEP 4. CONDUCTING THE SERVICE PROJECT. PLANNING MEETING - NUMBER 1. The idea of hosting a specific NYFEA community service project must be sold to all in attendance. Host well planned meetings with care taken to have organized agendas. (Don't let the meetings drag.) 1. Present the purpose of the meeting, explain objectives, leadership, and discuss possible assignments. a. Provide and discuss service materials. b. Secure one of the community leaders to assist in the presentation of and objectives of the project. 2. Ask for a motion to host a project. 3. Ask people to participate in the service project. The leader should have specific opportunities outlined, so interested participants can volunteer for work. STEP 5. CONDUCT A CONTEST. The idea of participating in a contest is to gain recognition for local members and to inspire people to learn. 1. Name a chair for each contest. 2. Recruit participants in contests. 3. Send Scrapbook, Community Service and Farm Plan contest data to NYFEA for entry into a national contest. . . Suggested NAAS Chapter Activities I. COMMUNITY SERVICE - A. Select a service project. B. Inform community leaders of service opportunities that will benefit the community. C. Encourage the sponsorship of service projects in the community. D. Select participants who will use their skills and toward constructive projects in the community. II. PUBLIC RELATIONS - A. Make the news media aware of activities. B. Strive to get school children involved. C. Publicize activities and encourage public attendance. D. Make a special effort to publicize the accomplishments of the project or individual members. E. Encourage sponsors and contributors to support the project. III. NYFEA SUPPORT - A. Keep abreast of NYFEA service programs. B. Know the procedure of enlisting 15 local members in the Members And Mentors Award program. C. Make sure information is distributed to local chapters. D. Reflect your ideas to NYFEA. E. Send stories to NYFEA by email. F. Encourage people to view web at nyfea.org. IV. LOCAL ACTIVITIES The pre and post project activities of the NAAS subscribers will determine the success within an area. Activities should be developed to best congratulate the local participants. A. Encourage Community Service Project of the Year, Scrapbook Contest and Farm Plan Contest applications to be submitted to national. B. Encourage attendance at the National Agricultural Leadership Conference and/or National Institute. C. Encourage Members and Mentors Award participants to use the Vision Care Discount Card. D. Create chapter recognition awards for special accomplishments. ADDITIONAL SERVICES PROVIDED BY NYFEA TO FULL MEMBERS *Recognition of Outstanding Members *Grants to states for hosting service projects *Annual Leadership and Management Seminars *Web courses on leadership, agribusiness and farming. *Ag Leadership Conferences focusing on adding value to your agricultural career. *Partnerships with national commodity and consumer organizations that allow for NYFEA members to save money on prescription drugs, vision care, rental cars, hotels and movies. *International Farmer Education Programs *National Spokesperson, Farm Management, Farm Plan, Photo, Ag Expressions, Scrapbook and Community Service Contests. *Life Membership *National Newsletter and Updates *Leadership, Management and Instruction Degrees *Annual National Convention *National Ag Leadership Conference *Certified Ag Professionals (Career Development) *Members And Mentors Award (Young Farmer mentoring and recruiting) . APPLICATION FOR NAAS SUBSCRIPTIONS We/I, ______________________________________________ would like to subscribe for NYFEA services. Enclosed are our organizational dues of $150.00. I have regular dues paying NYFEA members and would like to be considered for a subscription waiver. The undersigned are the advisor/chapter leader and the Members And Mentors Award participants. NAME EMAIL _______________________ ADDRESS _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ Payment method: _______ Check enclosed _______________________ ______________ _______________________ _______________ _______________________ _______________ _______________________ _______________ _______________________ _______________ _______________________ _______________ _______________________ ______________ _______________________ ______________ _______________________ ______*credit card number ______________________ Exp. _____________ Visa/Master Card/Discover/American Express *Credit card payments will be billed annually unless the organization is notified of a change by the chapter leader. A form must be turned in before NYFEA can press forward with the project. date . Programs For Members . NYFEA DEGREE EAA SCORECARD These degrees are sponsored by Firestone Ag Tires. . We are pleased to offer everyone who participates in a NYFEA project the opportunity to qualify for a NYFEA DEGREE. NAME: EMAIL SSN: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ______ ZIP: TELEPHONE: (please include area code) WORK: ________________________________ HOME: ___________________________________ FAX: I have participated in the following activities that qualify for NYFEA Degrees and EAA points. I realize this information must be returned to NYFEA by September 1, of current calendar year. Please note that each participant must designate the degree for which the points are to be used. Do not hesitate to copy if additional space is needed. Return to: NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 ========================================================================================= 1. ACTIVITY: 1. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other _____________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 2. ACTIVITY: 2. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other _____________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 3. ACTIVITY: 3. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other _____________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 4. ACTIVITY: 4. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other ________________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 5. ACTIVITY: 5. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other ________________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= Suggestions: Institute attendance = 100 points educational seminars (name/date) = 100 points tours (name of tour & date) = 100 points state conventions (state & date) = 100 points state, natl, etc. leader (year) = 100 points chapter meetings (date of each mtg.) = 100 points community service project = 100 points etc. All scorecards must be dated and witnessed Office Use Only: Date received: / /200 National Member ___ Yes ___ No - (Billed $15 from membership - Date: ___________ Entered degree points ______________ Checked address, etc. against Natl membership roster ___ Update? ___ Yes ___ No . NYFEA EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS Classroom Materials ------------------------------------------------------------- Support materials to use in conducting educational programs in local chapter: 1. Essentials of Leadership Series of handouts that make great supplements for a local chapter. Focus on personal skills. 2. Certified Agricultural Professionals Monthly educational programs found in the Educational Programs component of www.nyfea.org . NYFEA Contest Guidelines -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Contests are fun and a great way to learn! The NYFEA educational strategic plan is entitled Education for American Agriculture. It is designed to take NYFEA into the future as agriculture’s finest leadership development, business management training and community service organization. Members of NYFEA have the opportunity to participate in Education for American Agriculture’s three pronged approach to success. NYFEA believes that leadership is a skill that every member can learn. However, to become a leader for agriculture, a person must follow a simple formula: 1. Attain knowledge - Through courses on leadership, management and ag production, members are able to gain knowledge. 2. Practice implementing the information - Using the NYFEA menu of contests a person can practice effective leadership and refine business practices. 3. Apply what has been learned - Through the community service programs, NYFEA members apply the information dealing with ag literacy, world hunger, scholarships for young people, farm safety, and school involvement. The contest guidelines are designed to provide NYFEA members with the tools they need to become great leaders. This NYFEA handbook contains the guidelines for entering the contests. It also outlines the requirements for competing and the level of performance expected. Further, the handbook contains a yearly plan. This is a tool that should make it easier for local organizations to host contests. The yearly plan is a month by month outline of the actions the host should take to insure a successful contest. For additional information, please call NYFEA. NYFEA - Service Projects are fun and a great way to learn! The NYFEA educational strategic plan is entitled Education for American Agriculture. It is designed to take NYFEA into the future as agriculture’s finest leadership development, business management training and community service organization. Members of NYFEA have the opportunity to participate in Education for American Agriculture’s three pronged approach to success. NYFEA believes that leadership is a skill that every member can learn. However, to become a leader for agriculture, a person must follow a simple formula: 1. Attain knowledge - Through courses on leadership, management and ag production, members are able to gain knowledge. 2. Practice implementing the information - Using the NYFEA menu of contests a person can practice effective leadership and refine business practices. 3. Apply what has been learned - Through the community service programs, NYFEA members apply the information dealing with ag literacy, world hunger, scholarships for young people, farm safety, and school involvement. The service project guidelines are designed to provide NYFEA members with the tools they need to apply their skills. This NYFEA handbook contains a sample of how to get involved with the community. Guidelines for entering the service projects. It also outlines the requirements for successful service projects. This is a tool that should make it easier for local organizations to host projects. For additional information, please call NYFEA. NYFEA'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM . Adopt-A-Club Manual & Presentation Booklet Objective: To provide a tool for Young Farmers' to use for presentations given to community clubs and organizations, in order to demonstrate that we as agriculturists are dedicated to producing high quality products, while protecting the environment for future generations. This community involvement will strengthen the overall network of supporters for agriculture by building bonds between the schools, farms, agribusiness's, and other professionals in the community. Overall Intended Accomplishment: It is becoming increasingly important to emphasize the importance of the farm in today's changing society. The Adopt-A-Club program has been designed to reach community organizations and provide them with hands-on opportunities to experience agriculture. The field of agriculture is forever expanding offering many rewards and a diverse range of exciting opportunities. Unfortunately, negative publicity has resulted in a negative perception of agriculture by the general public. This publicity has skewed the perception of a variety of important agriculture issues. Educating the end consumers will allow them to help educate their children and help make a positive impact in the future. It has been said that America is the land of opportunity. It is a place that teaches its youth that hard work and honesty can lead to a life of prosperity. From its' inception, its' people have never been afraid to roll up their sleeves, dirty their hands and dive in head first to make their dreams come true. Dreams which were often met with resistance and apprehension yet were realized by the countries' determined citizens. American history has been molded by those individuals who made great sacrifices for their beliefs and ideals. Our forefathers fought strongly to establish what would become "the land of the free." Throughout the development of our country, land has played an integral role. Its purchase, sale, and utilization has been a vital component in the American economic formula. Of these, farming has been the most vital. This next century will be challenging for the American farmer as they continue in their attempt to nurture the ever changing populous. The correlation of a healthy population and a successful nation can be easily related to the availability of safe, nutritious food for people to eat. As more and more of America's agricultural practices become regulated it becomes increasingly important for the farmer to stand up and share the importance and benefits of American agriculture. The Adopt-a-Club "Environmental Outreach Program" is designed to assist producers in taking this stand. It was developed to educate the consumers of agricultural products, a sector of the population that tends to be removed from agricultural production and issues. Through this program, people shall gain a better understanding of the hard work and decisions that farmers must perform in order to produce the safest and most affordable food supply in the world. Community Service Adopt-A-Club Manual & Presentation Booklet NYFEA'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM NATIONAL YOUNG FARMER EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION General Information In implementing the Adopt-A-Club program, it is important to identify a local community organization (ie. Kiwanis, Rotary, JayCees, other civic clubs, or professional organizations). Such organizations should be eager to have speakers attend their meetings. The goal is to present a program to the club that would send them home with a positive image of agriculture in their community. Recruiting local agricultural professionals to share in the program will give greater value to this presentation. . An integral part of this process will be to thoroughly inform the general population about what is going in the various civic organizations as well as the rural community. To aid in this informative process, photos should be taken of any presentations or educational events. These pictures should then be circulated to the public in a manner that will hopefully provide a desirable image. NYFEA'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM "Commodities: From Our Gate to Your Plate" Sample Presentations Presentation There are several methods of acceptable presentation. One of these is to provide the identified club or organization with interesting and accurate information at their meeting place. This information would be centered around agricultural practices. It would explain how agriculture safely provides a variety of quality products while at the same time protects and enriches the environment. This presentation would be enhanced by utilizing examples of products, insects, and weeds. These items as well as others will help to reinforce those topics that are discussed. Another method of presentation perhaps offering a greater impact would be the provision of the aforementioned elements at a farm within the community. This farm should be one that displays good stewardship and employs accepted agricultural practice. While there, individuals would see first hand, the decisions that are made in agriculture and how those decisions can help to protect the environment. Commodity Identification: Show a picture of a beef animal which identifies the areas from where the various meat cuts are taken. Stop by the grocery store and pick up a few of these different cuts to point out differences in origin, tenderness, and marbling. Commodity Production: Briefly describe how beef cattle are raised on your farm and how that ties in to the whole picture of birth to a finished product. Raising Beef Cattle * Discuss your nutritional program, what you feed * Breeding: Natural vs. AI * How many head per acre (one acre is 43,560 sq. ft.) * Discuss herd health practices: vaccines, wormers, emergency situations etc. Protecting the Environment * Cattle are raised on land on which crops are generally not productive * Many states have ag water quality plans that determine how many feet away from streams/creeks cattle must be kept * Operations must manage manure Other Interesting Facts and Figures to Mention * Gestation period: Very similar to humans at 9 months but very different from horses at 11 months and pigs at 3 months 3 weeks and 3 days. * Amount of time from birth until slaughter generally is 30 months or less * Average weight at slaughter is 1200 pounds * Average weight at birth for your state * Number of cattle in your state, county, and farm and gross revenues generated * Beef consumption trends are leveling off, new beef products available in grocery store that save time * Average market price given to farmers vs. price sold to consumer For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18. BEEF: It's What's for Dinner! Commodity Identification: Show pictures of the five breeds of dairy animals. Also, take photos of dairy products or stop by the grocery and pick up some products for individuals to sample. Commodity Production: Briefly describe how dairy cows are raised and cared for on your farm. Discuss what happens to the raw product from the time it leaves your farm until it reaches their home. . Raising Dairy Cattle * Discuss milking procedure including time of day, length of time per cow, how much milk per cow per day etc. * Milk Tank Topics: How we protect you: maximums for somatic cell counts, no antibiotics, no off aromas or flavors, maintaining proper temperature * What they eat and how much * Herd Health Procedures & Problems * Breeding: Natural vs. AI Protecting the Environment * Manure management * Limited stream/creek access for pastured cattle * Waste water management Other Interesting Facts to Mention * Gestation period is 9 months * Price of 1 gallon of milk in the grocery vs. what the farmer gets One gallon of milk weighs 8.8 pounds * Average milk production on your farm per cow * Number of dairies in the state and your county: Average size of the dairies * Nutritional value of milk products, how they fit in with our busy lives * Contributions of dairy animals to the beef market For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18. DAIRY: GOT MILK? PORK: The Other White Meat Commodity Identification: Show a picture of the pig with labeled meat cuts. Have different products available for the participants to look at or sample. Commodity Production: Briefly describe how pigs are raised on your farm and how that ties in to the whole picture from birth to end product. Raising Pigs * Discuss size of operation and whether you are raising feeders or if you are farrow to finish * Discuss nutritional program * Discuss herd health practices * Discuss the Pork Quality Assurance plans that swine producers must have Protecting the Environment * Discuss any composting methods that protect the environment * Discuss manure management including holding and disposal methods Interesting Facts to Mention * Litter size * Gestation length of 3 months 3 weeks and 3 days * Average birth weight vs. Slaughter weight and how long it takes to get to slaughter weight. * Number of hogs in state, county, and farm For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18 Chicken & The Incredible Edible Egg . Commodity Identification: Take in a chicken or a picture of one. Also, take in eggs and other poultry products. Commodity Production: Briefly discuss how chickens are raised on your farm and what purpose they are for, meat or eggs. Make sure to discuss vertical integration with companies. Raising Chickens * Housing: Temperature, Ventilation, Number of Animals * Feed Requirements * Working with Companies Protecting the Environment * Manure management and alternative uses * Composting Other Interesting Facts to Mention * Average weight of meat birds * Average number of eggs per bird: clutch, need for light * What a gizzard is used for inside the bird * Number of birds in state, county and on your farm * Amount of chicken a person eats per year is about 81 pounds. * Number of eggs a person eats per year For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18. Grain Crops: Corn, Soybeans, & Small Grains ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM Community Service 1 Objective 2 Accomplishment Intended 2 General Information 3 Presentation 3 "Commodities: From Our Gate to Your Plate", Presentations 4-10 Beef: It's What's for Dinner 5 Got Milk 6 Pork: The Other White Meat 7 Chicken and Eggs 8 Grain Crops 9 Fruits & Vegetables 10 "Protecting the Land for Future Generations" 11, 12 "Friends of the Environment" 13,14 Information Resources 15-18 This notebook and program was created by Mr. Russell H Tipton, II, of Shelbyville Kentucky and compiled by Brittany L. Edelson Shelby County Cooperative Extension Agent for Agriculture. SPOKESPERSON PROGRAM Objectives: .1. To provide an educational program that inspires participation from the majority of the chapters belonging to the NYFEA. 2. To enhance public speaking skills of young men and women from all parts of the world by encouraging competition. 3. To further educate the general public about issues facing agriculture in this nation and world. 4. To provide a rewarding and fun-filled experience where contestants, advisors and sponsors will all be excited about participation. Contestant Eligibility: Any member of NYFEA over 18 years old on the day of the national contest can enter. Individuals presently employed in a systematic agricultural education career and past state or national winners of the NYFEA Spokesperson for Agriculture Award are not eligible. Topics: Spokespersons competing in the contest must present a prepared, five-minute statement on a current agricultural or environmental topic that will provide a positive perspective of agriculture/renewable resources to an audience of consumers and producers. Selection Process: Individuals are eligible for competition in the National Contest through one of two ways: First, state spokespersons will be selected through a process developed mutually by the state association and the state sponsor based on guidelines developed by NYFEA. State winners' names must be provided to the NYFEA Executive Director, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120, by September 1. A biographical sketch, photograph and the five-minute statement that will be presented at the national contest must also be submitted by September 1. A five-point penalty will be assessed against the contestant's final score for an entry postmarked after September 1. Entries will not be accepted postmarked after September 1 and must be complete to be considered received. All entries must be submitted in writing. Second, individuals not entering a state contest or not winning the state competition may compete for open slots by entering the early round of competition at the National Institute. All that is required to compete in the qualifying round held during the institute is a) submit a written statement of intent, a video of your speech and a manuscript to NYFEA by September 1. Also, submit all of the preinstitute written communication material required of state winners, and pay the full institute registration fee. The top 10 will be selected and notified by NYFEA that they are eligible for the Institute competition.. Winning the summer meeting contest will provide the same entrance into the Institute competition as is provided to state winners. The Pre-Institute Phase: This part of the national contest involves summer qualifiers and state winners conducting activities: 1. To speak to at least two (2) audiences within their state. 2. To write letters to their state governor, lieutenant governor, a mayor, an agriculture college dean, etc. supporting a positive image of agriculture. 3. To conduct at least two (2) media interviews. After completion, documentation should be submitted to the national office by September 1, prior to the Institute, for the candidate to receive credit for these activities. The Statement Presentation: A five-minute presentation will occur during the NYFEA Institute. Selection of the three National Spokespersons for Agriculture will be made by a panel of judges consisting of a consumer leader, an agricultural communicator and an agricultural representative. The names of the judges for the contest will be secured prior to the Institute activities. This information will be accompanied by a biographical sketch for each judge. The NYFEA is responsible for providing judges a copy of each candidate's speeches. Judges will read and evaluate the manuscripts prior to the Institute. In both the statement and the questioning period, evaluation will be based on how well Spokespersons consider the variety of viewpoints, how accurate and convincing they are and on the overall delivery of their presentations. In addition to the five-minute statement, contestants must answer questions concerning any facet of agriculture and his/her background for 10 minutes. Questions in the 10-minute questioning period will be asked by the judges. Criteria for Selection: The judges will base their decisions on the following criteria. Pre-Institute .Activities-speaking to two or more audiences one point per engagement, maximum of two total points............................. writing letters to State Leaders i.e. Governor, Lieutenant Governor, a mayor, and an agriculture college dean one point per letter, maximum total of four points....................................... two media interviews two points per interview, maximum of four points...................................... 2 4 4 10 Statement-- considered other's viewpoints..................................................................... 11 content accurate and convincing................................................................ delivery conducive to reception.................................................................. 11 11 33 Questions-- answers considered other's viewpoints........................................................ 19 answers complete and accurate.................................................................. answers convincing................................................................................... 19 19 57 TOTAL.............................................................................................................100 Penalty--five points will be subtracted for each minute that the statement exceeds 5 1/2 minutes or is under 4 1/2 minutes. In addition, the contestant's question and answer time will be shortened by the amount of time that the prepared statement exceeds 5 minutes. (approximately 2 typewritten, double-spaced pages) Contestants are encouraged, but not required, to use props that may help illustrate the point in the five-minute statement. An easel and table will be available for use at the contestant's discretion. Slides or other visual aids needing additional set-up or equipment are not permitted. Anyone except others spokesperson contestants competing for national honors may watch the presentations at the contest. Institute Visibility: The contest will be held at the National Institute. During this time, the Spokesperson program will be showcased. It should be the time when the winners are able to shine and the sponsor is able to have pride in the product. Institute Activities: At the Institute the contestants will have an opportunity to participate in a media tour. The tour will help strengthen the spokesperson skills of every participant. Plus, it will increase exposure to agriculture in the host state. At the close of the meeting, the winners will be announced and they will be provided a chance to present their speeches and a brief explanation of the media tour. A banquet will provide a venue for recognizing the contestants and their companions. Post Institute Activities: After the Institute, the national winners will be involved in a series of public presentations. Examples of the venues where they will speak include state meetings, agricultural expositions, farm shows, public forums, etc. They will also be offered the opportunity to host service programs for the association and possibly the sponsor. Suggested Media Tour: One day of the media tour will have the winners doing newsprint, radio and television interviews in the host city. During this day, they will visit with city leaders. Included should be travel to surrounding communities visiting with civic leaders in education, politics or economic development. It is the objective of these activities to show the impact of agriculture and agricultural education on the surrounding economy. The remaining part of the day will consist of a tour of the nearest metropolitan locations for one prearranged media event per location. The Spokespersons will have prearranged press release information and will be prepared for scheduled interviews on their speech topics or on general agricultural-environmental issues. The idea is to cover at least two media markets and others, as time will allow. The NYFEA community service programs can be highlighted to deliver a positive message to schools, businesses, media, etc. Promotional Activities: The activities surrounding the spokespersons travels and experiences should be documented and distributed to each member after the Institute. The objective is to communicate the value of spokesperson participation to members’ local chapters. It also provides a visible tool for the states to use in designating their programs. During the Institute, a press conference should be held. The Institute chairman, national officers, national executive director, host state officers, host state executive directors, host state advisors, and others, should be a part of the program, along with the spokespersons. The local and state radio, television and newsprint media should be invited to attend. The objective will be to publicize the Institute, the NYFEA, the State Young Farmer Educational Association and agricultural education. Awards: In addition to any state awards, the national Spokespersons for Agriculture will receive a plaque and participate on the media tour. All state Spokespersons for Agriculture competing in the national contest will receive recognition. The national winners will also .have their registration costs covered at the Institute. No travel costs will be covered. If You Want To Enter: Contact your Executive Secretary for more information about your local and state contests. Contact the NYFEA office for more information about the NYFEA Spokesperson for Agriculture program. NYFEA Spokesperson for Agriculture Program Individual Contestant Score Sheet Contestant Number/Name _________________________________________________________ Possible Judges Points Score Statement-considered consumer's viewpoint 11 _______ content accurate and convincing 11 _______ delivery conducive to reception 11 _______ Total 33 _______ _____________________________________________________________ _______________________ Questions-answers considered other's viewpoints 19 _______ answers complete and accurate 19 _______ Answers convincing 19 _______ Total 57 _______ ______________________________________________________________________________________ Notes - Critique of Contestant: Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to develop and refine their skills as communicators, promoters, defenders and overall representatives of farms, ranches and other agribusinesses. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by participating in the spokesperson contest. To promote the development of local spokesperson contests. Objective: 123456- Increased number of local contests. Effective communications with all participants National action plan for the promotion of spokesperson program National service initiative for spokesperson program inclusive of handbooks A follow up article showing the spokesperson activities An action plan for the winners during the months after the Institute December - Action steps for hosting a contest: January Prepare follow up reports on convention activities. Write articles for the association publications. Send letters to executives encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank them for support. Include copies of previous year's activities. April Arrange for room for speeches, arrange for media room, select service project, etc. for upcoming meeting. Have past year's winners draft a letter to editor for local papers supporting ag ed and NYFEA. May Contact future convention site for identification of judges. Collect names of state applicants. Draft letters congratulating each local winner. Outline expectations and make sure each contestant has a copy of the guidelines. June Contact previous year's winners and ask them to draft letters providing hints to current year’s contestants. Select a service project for the current year's winners to host. July Draft memo to executive director to request sight inspection of the Institute location. Contact sight of service project. August Draft a letter to judges confirming participation. Reserve a sight for the community service project. September Collect final data for contestants. Secure media visits to newspapers, radio stations, etc. for current year's winners. October Send letters to contestants reminding them that they must register for Institute. Draft press release for contestants. Recruit press visits. November Finalize selection of judges. Prepare any speech information that judges need. Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. Hold contest, media interviews and community service programs. OUTSTANDING MEMBER CONTEST 1. This recognition is sponsored by the _________________________________________________. .2. To be eligible, the participants must be active NYFEA members and be winners of the state recognition from a state association in good standing with NYFEA. A state association may submit only one participant. Winners names must be submitted by September 1. 3. The national winners will receive a prize that is consistent with the sponsorship. 4. Presentations will be made at the NYFEA Institute. The recipient must be present to receive the award. Nomination Form 1. Personal information Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Complete address ___________________________ City, State, Zip______________________________ Years of experience as a NYFEA member __________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________ Email _________________________________ 2. Chapter Information Name of NYFEA Chapter ______________________________________________________________ Complete address ___________________________ City, State, Zip______________________________ Telephone _____________________________ Total Members ________________________________ Email _______________________________________ Fax _______________________ Individuals enrolled in adult agricultural education __________________________________________ Please respond to the following on a separate sheet and submit it with this form. 3. Program Information - Please provide a sketch of the ag activites of your chapter’s programa. agricultural operations. b. community projects participated in during the past year. c. educational programs in which candidate participated. d. how the candidate has been involved in the NYFEA and local agricultural education programs. e. involvement with agriculture organization and commodity groups. f. activities and awards and scope to which your chapter/member was represented in national activities. 4. Individual Involvement Please provide a biographical sketch or resume that includes a list of related organizations (agriculture and agricultural education) of which the candidate is a member. List the level of involvement in community and civic activities, professional associations, church, etc. Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to take an active role in local activities. To recognize those members who personally lead a local initiative focused on service for agriculture and the community. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by leading local efforts directed toward ag leadership and ag service. To encourage states to hold outstanding member contests. Objective: 123- Increase number of states participating in the program Effective communications with winners National action plan for the promotion of outstanding service Action steps for hosting a contest :January Prepare follow up reports on convention activities. Write articles for the association publications. Send letters to tate executives encouraging future participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank them for support. Include copies of previous year's activities. April Have past year's winners draft a letter to editor for local papers supporting ag ed and NYFEA. May Contact convention hosts to encourage contests for this year. Collect names of winners. Draft letters congratulating each winner. June Set up media interview with winners. July Draft memo to winners to request Institute attendance. August Draft a letter to media interviewers. September Collect information on winners. Provide press release to newspapers, radio stations, etc. for current year's winners. October Send letters to winners reminding them that they must register for Institute. Draft press release for winners. November Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. December Recognize winners. . OUTSTANDING ADVISOR Application Form 1. To be eligible, the nominee must have an active NYFEA Chapter and be recommended from a state association in good standing with the NYFEA. A state association may submit one nominee. 2. The national winner will receive a life membership in the NYFEA and a plaque. 3. Presentation will be made at the next annual National Educational Institute in December. The recipient must be present to receive the award. 4. Application must be submitted by September 1. Nomination Form 1. Candidate information Advisor's name_____________________________________________________ Complete home address______________________________________________ City_______________________________State______________Zip___________ Years of teaching experience______ Years of experience as an Advisor ______ 2. Chapter Information Name of Chapter_____________________________________________________ Name of school______________________________________________________ Complete school address_______________________________________________ City_______________________________State_____________Zip______________ Telephone____________________Are you currently a member of NYFEA? ______ What is the total number of members in your chapter? _____________________ What is the total number of individuals enrolled in your short-term adult agricultural education programs? ___________ Please respond to the following on a separate sheet and submit it with this form. 3. Program Information - 250 points a. Provide a summary of the educational meetings conducted, with attendance at each, as part of the most recently completed year of member activities. b. Provide a summary of the community projects involving members conducted during the past year. c. Explain how the chapter was involved and cooperated with the other agricultural educational organizations in the local system in the past year. d. Explain how the chapter was involved with agriculture organizations and commodity groups. 4. State/National Participation - 250 points a. List the activities and awards and scope to which your chapter/members participated in state activities, i.e., District & State Spokesperson contestants, members attended state summer tour, or member elected to State Office. b. List the activities and awards and scope to which your chapter/membership was represented in national activities. 5. Individual Involvement - 75 points a. List related organizations, agriculture and agricultural education, of which you are presently a member and your level of involvement. b. List community and civic organizations of which you are presently a member. 6. Please provide the following information on this form - 125 points .Years attended: Does your state have an Outstanding Advisor Award available now? _______ Have you been nominated for it?______Have you received it?_____How many times? _____ State Convention________ National Educational Institute______ NYFEA Summer Meetings________ State Summer Activity_________ Are you a member of the NAAE? __________Total years of membership________ Are you or have you been an officer/committee chair of your state NAAE affiliate? ________ Are you or have you been an officer/committee chair of your state vocational assn.? _______ Are you or have you been an officer/committee chair of NAAE? ________________________ Are you or have you been an officer/committee chair of AVA? __________________________ Attended state professional improvement conference for agricultural education? ____________ Attended NAAE professional improvement workshops? _______________________________ Attended AVA-NAAE Convention? _______________________________________________ Mission: To encourage agricultural people to develop and refine their skills as leaders by directing a local Ag Leaders Club or Young Farmer Chapter. To encourage leaders to motivate chapters to fulfill the continuing education and community service responsibilities of NYFEA. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by participating in local organizations of NYFEA. To promote the development of local clubs and chapters. Objective: 1234- Increased local activity. National action plan for the promotion of new participants National work plan for advisors Article showing the activities as performed by successful chapters and clubs Plan of Action for Hosting: January Prepare follow up reports on convention activities. Write articles for the association's publications. Send letters to state executives encouraging previous year's nominees. February Draft a letter congratulating winner. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank them for support. Include copies of previous year's activities. April Contact judges for next year. May June July Draft memo to request sight inspection of the Institute location. August Draft a letter to judges confirming participation. Send data to judges. September Collect final data from nominees and send date to judges. Secure media visits for current winner. October Send letters to winners reminding them that they must register for Institute. Draft press release for winners. November Finalize attendance of winner. Make sure plaque is ready. December Recognize winner. . REPORTER/SCRAPBOOK CONTEST 1. This recognition is sponsored by the _________________________________________________. 2. To be eligible, the reporters must be active NYFEA members and be designated as a representative of the state. A state association may submit one reporter. Reporter must be submitted by September 1. 3. The national winners will receive a prize that is consistent with the sponsorship. 4. Presentations will be made at the NYFEA Institute. The recipient must be present to receive the award. 1. Reporter information Nomination Form Name __________________________________Years of experience as a NYFEA member Complete address __________ _________________ City, State, Zip ______________________ 2. Chapter Information Name of NYFEA Chapter _______________________________ Complete address __________________________ City, State, Zip ________________________ Telephone _____________Total Members ____ _ Individuals enrolled in adult agricultural education ________ Please respond to the following on a separate sheet and submit it with this form. 3. Program Information a. Provide a resume of the agricultural reporting. b. Provide a resume of the reports to external media during the past year. c. Provide a resume of the educational programs reported. d. Explain how the member has been involved in the NYFEA and local agricultural education programs. e. Explain involvement with agriculture organizations and commodity groups. f. Include articles and samples of work. Include photos, videos, etc. 4. Individual Involvement a. List related organizations, agriculture and agriculture education, of which you are presently a member and the level of involvement. b. List community and civic organizations of which you are presently a member. 5. Scrapbook— The reporter is to provide a scrapbook that documents the activities of the year for the state association. 6. Selection Process Winner will be chosen based on state participation in NYFEA communications, activity level at the state and documentation of state activities. A panel of peers with assistance from media experts will make final decision. Plan of Action for Hosting Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to develop and refine their skills as communicators, promoters, defenders and overall representatives of farms, ranches and other agribusinesses. To provide documentation that records the annual accomplishments of the local, state and national association through the activities of the reporter. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by participating in the reporter contest. To promote the development of a national system for documenting participation. Objective: 1Select reporters in all states plan for the development of local scrapbooks. 2- Quarterly communications with all states 34National plan to utilize scrapbooks. National action Action Steps: January Prepare follow up reports on NYFEA convention activities. Write articles for the NYFEA publications. Send letters to state executives encouraging reporters for new year. Collect and store previous year’s scrapbooks. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's reporter. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank them for support. Include copies of previous year's scrapbook. April Have past year's winner draft a letter to state presidents encouraging reporters. May Contact judges. Outline expectations and make sure each state reporter has a copy of the guidelines. June July August Draft a letter to judges confirming participation. September Collect final data from contestants. October Send information to judges November Prepare any press information that judges need. Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. December Recognize winner. . Agricultural Expressions Contest (general application) Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to develop and refine their skills as communicators, promoters, defenders and overall representatives of farms, ranches and other agribusinesses through the use of writing. To refine the writing skills of participants. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by participating in the “Agricultural Expressions" contest. To promote the development of local contests. Objective: 1234- Contests in all states National action plan for encouraging farmers to express their agricultural ideas, beliefs and opinions in written form. Articles showcasing the “Agricultural Expressions” activities as performed by the participants An action plan for the winners during the months after the Institute Action Steps: January Prepare follow up reports on NYFEA convention activities. Prepare written agricultural expressions material for use in NYFEA publications. Send letters encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank for support. Include copies of previous year's activities. April Have past year's winners draft a letter to state executives supporting “Agricultural Expressions” contest. May Contact judges. Collect names of applicants. Outline expectations and make sure each national contestant has a copy of the guidelines. June Contact previous year's winners and ask them to draft letters providing hints to current year's contestants. July Collect final data for contestants. August September Send essays to judges. October Send letters to contestants reminding them that they must register for Institute. November Finalize judging. Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. December Present awards. . Agricultural Expressions Contest (Consumer Version) Objectives: 1. Provide an opportunity for both consumers and agriculturists to better understand each other. 2. Promote agriculture and encourage more appreciation for the quality and quantity of food available in the United States. 3. Provide an opportunity for communication and interaction between consumers and agriculturists. 4. Promote NYFEA as a dynamic organization in the field of agriculture. Consumer Perceptions: 5. Provide an opportunity for non-agriculturists to voice their pride and concerns for the agricultural products they consume. 6. Enhance the writing skills of participants while providing them an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues facing agriculture today. 7. Promote NYFEA in non-traditional publications by recognizing our desire to understand and answer consumer concerns. Contestant Eligibility: Any person who is neither a member of the NYFEA or directly involved in agriculture production. No past winner of the NYFEA Ag Expressions will be eligible to participate. Topics: Writers competing in the contest must submit a 400-500 word statement (essay) on a current agricultural or environmental topic that will provide a positive perspective of agriculture/renewable resource to an audience of both consumers and producers. Eligibility: Those participants who qualify for the NYFEA Ag Expressions contest must submit 1) their essay, 2) a brief biographical sketch, 3) a release to replicate essay, and 4) a photograph to the NYFEA office no later than September 1. Selection Process: Any member may participate. Any entry postmarked after September 1 shall be assessed a five point penalty against the contestant’s final score. All contestants will be invited to attend the Institute and will be recognized at the award ceremony at the Institute. Selection of the three (3) NYFEA Ag Expressions winners will be decided by a panel of judges consisting of: 1- consumer leader, 2- a teacher of composition and 3 - an agricultural representative. Each winner’s essay and biography will be duplicated and provided to each judge for consideration prior to the National Institute. Content: Research: Composition: Scoring Criteria for Agricultural Expressions: consideration of other's viewpoints ------------------------------- 15 accurate and convincing ---------------------------20 conducive to reception (readability) ----------------------- 15 . sub total - - - - - - - - 50 evidence to support statement--------------------------------------- 10 bibliography and footnotes --------------------------------------- 10 sub total - - - - - - - - 20 grammar ----------------------------------------------------------10 format and originality ------------------------------------------10 writing skill ---------------------------------------------------------- . 10 . sub total - - - - - - - - - 30 TOTAL POINTS----------------->100 PENALTY: five (5) points will be deducted from the total score for each twenty-five words under 400 or over 500 in the Ag Expressions itself. Institute Visibility: The NYFEA Institute will be the showcase for the Ag Expressions Contest. One of the evening banquets will feature a reserved table for all national contestants and their companions. The evening activities will include the introduction and presentation of certificates of participation to each contestant. The presentation of awards to the three winners will be made at that time. Awards: The three NYFEA Ag Expressions Contest winners will receive certificates of accomplishment and other prizes subject to the level of sponsorship. The top (if not all three) essays shall be reprinted in national publication(s). This will be announced at the Institute. Agricultural Expressions Contest (Youth Version) .Objectives: 1. Provide an opportunity for both consumers and agriculturists to better understand each other. 2. Promote agriculture and encourage more appreciation for the quality and quantity of food available in the United States. 3. Provide an opportunity for communication and interaction between consumers and agriculturists. 4. Promote NYFEA as a dynamic organization in the field of agriculture. Youth Perceptions: 5. Promote a better understanding of agriculture and natural resources among young people in America. 6. Encourage appreciation of the benefits of agriculture and the renewable resources available in the United States. Contestant Eligibility: Any Sophomore, Junior or Senior enrolled in High School under the age of 18. No past winner of the NYFEA Ag Expressions Contest will be eligible to participate. Topics: Writers competing in the contest must submit a 400-500 word statement (essay) on a current agricultural or environmental topic that will provide a positive perspective of agriculture/renewable resources to an audience of both consumers and producers. Eligibility: Those participants who qualify for the NYFEA Ag Expressions contest must submit 1) their essay, 2) a brief biographical sketch, 3) a release to replicate essay, and 4) a photograph to the NYFEA office no later than September 1. Selection Process: Any national entry postmarked after September 1 shall be assessed a five point penalty against the contestant’s final score. All competitors will be invited to attend the Institute and will be recognized at the Award ceremony at the Institute. Selection of the three (3) NYFEA Ag Expressions Award winners will be decided by a panel of judges consisting of: 1- consumer leader, 2- a teacher of composition and 3 - an agricultural representative. Each candidate’s essay and biography will be duplicated and provided to each judge for consideration prior to the National Institute. Content: Scoring Criteria for Agricultural Expressions: consideration of other's viewpoints ------------------------------15 accurate and convincing -----------------------------------------conducive to reception (readability) ------------------------------- 20 15 sub total - - - - - - - - 50 evidence to support statement--------------------------------------10 bibliography and footnotes --------------------------------------- 10 sub total - - - - - - - - 20 grammar ----------------------------------------------------------10 format and originality -------------------------------------------10 writing skill ---------------------------------------------------------- 10 . Research: . Composition: . sub total - - - - - - - - - 30 TOTAL POINTS----------------->100 PENALTY: five (5) points will be deducted from the total score for each twenty-five words under 400 or over 500 in the Ag Expressions itself. =========================================================================== Institute Visibility: The NYFEA Institute will be the showcase for the Ag Expressions Contest. One of the evening banquets will feature a reserved table for all national contestants and their companions. The evening activities will include the introduction and presentation of certificates of participation to each contestant. The presentation of awards to the three winners will be made at that time. Awards: The three NYFEA Ag Expressions Contest winners will receive certificates of accomplishment and other prizes subject to the level of sponsorship. The top (if not all three) essays shall be reprinted in national publication(s). This will be announced at the Institute. . Agricultural Expressions Contest (Member Version) Objectives: 1. Provide an opportunity for both consumers and agriculturists to better understand each other. 2. Promote agriculture and encourage more appreciation for the quality and quantity of food available in the United States. 3. Provide an opportunity for communication and interaction between consumers and agriculturists. 4. Promote NYFEA as a dynamic organization in the field of agriculture. Agriculture's Perceptions: 5. Provide an educational opportunity for NYFEA members to voice their pride and concerns for agriculture. 6. Enhance the writing skills of participants while providing them an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues facing agriculture today. Contestant Eligibility: Any member of NYFEA who is not employed in a systematic ag education career or past winner of the NYFEA Ag Expressions Contest will be eligible to participate. Topics: Writers competing in the contest must submit a 400-500 word statement (essay) on a current agricultural or environmental topic that will provide a positive perspective of agriculture/renewable resources to an audiences of both consumers and producers. Eligibility: Those participants who qualify for the NYFEA essay contest must submit 1) their essay, 2) a brief biographical sketch, 3) a release to replicate essay, and 4) a photograph to the NYFEA office no later than September 1. Selection Process: Any member may participate. Any entry postmarked after September 1 shall be assessed a five point penalty against the contestant’s final score. All contestants will be invited to attend the Institute and will be recognized at the award ceremony at the Institute. Selection of the three (3) NYFEA Ag Expressions Award winners will be decided by a panel of judges consisting of: 1- consumer leader, 2- a teacher of composition and 3 - an agricultural representative. Each candidate’s essay and biography will be duplicated and provided to each judge for consideration prior to the National Institute. Content: Scoring Criteria for Agricultural Expressions: consideration of other's viewpoints ------------------------------15 accurate and convincing -----------------------------------------conducive to reception (readability) ------------------------------- 20 15 sub total - - - - - - - - 50 evidence to support statement--------------------------------------10 bibliography and footnotes --------------------------------------- 10 sub total - - - - - - - - 20 grammar ----------------------------------------------------------10 format and originality -------------------------------------------10 writing skill --------------------------------------------------------- 10 . Research: . Composition: . sub total - - - - - - - - - 30 TOTAL POINTS----------------->100 PENALTY: five (5) points will be deducted from the total score for each twenty-five words under 400 or over 500 in the Ag Expressions itself. =========================================================================== Institute Visibility: The NYFEA Institute will be the showcase for the Ag Expressions Contest. One of the evening banquets will feature a reserved table for all national contestants and their companions. The evening activities will include the introduction and presentation of certificates of participation to each contestant. The presentation of awards to the three winners will be made at that time. Awards: The three NYFEA Ag Expressions Contest winners will receive certificates of accomplishment and other prizes subject to the level of sponsorship. The top (if not all three) essays shall be reprinted in national publication(s). This will be announced at the Institute. NYFEA FARM AND RANCH MANAGEMENT PROGRAM .The contest will be evenly divided among the areas listed below. One or more management problems or exercises will be included for most areas as well as knowledge questions about the subject matter. Emphasis will be placed on practical knowledge and management skills. The following is a list, although not all - inclusive, of areas to be included in the contest: DECISION-MAKING PROCESS - management definition, economic principles involved (diminishing returns, comparative advantage, economic relationships among enterprises), choosing enterprises, types of farm organization and implications, and owning vs. leasing. RESOURCE ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER - concepts of property, requirements for ownership, restrictions, ways of ownership and transfer of real estate, valuation and appraisal, deeds, wills, and property value trends and changes. FARM MANAGEMENT TOOLS FOR PLANNING AND ANALYSIS - budgets (complete and partial), farm records, cash flow analysis, net worth statement (balance sheet), income statement, measures of solvency, liquidity and success in farm operation. TAXES AND MANAGEMENT - goal of tax management, emphasis on federal income tax (basis for filing, accounting methods, gross farm profit net taxable income, deductions, exemptions, depreciation, depletion, capital gains, and cost basis in property), and property taxation. RISK AND UNCERTAINTY - types of risk; evaluation, transfer and reduction; marketing decisions; and the place of insurance. MANAGEMENT IN TODAY'S ENVIRONMENT - information sources and use, farm business analysis associations, use of computers, alternative agriculture, and policy considerations. The purpose of the program is to stimulate members to learn and improve their business management skills. It is an opportunity for individuals to test their management skills learned through their educational program against those of others across the country. Objectives: I. Individuals competing in the contest will apply economic principles in management decision making while analyzing the total farm business. A. Production Function 1. Diminishing Returns 2. Profit Maximizing Point: Benefit-Cost: MC=MR B. Opportunity Cost C. Cost Analysis (fixed-variable) D. Input Combinations E. Enterprise Selection 1. Equi-Marginal Principle 2. Substitute, complementary products II. Individuals competing in the contest will select the most appropriate type of farm business organization for a given situation. A. Sole Proprietorship B. Corporations C. Partnerships III. Individuals competing in the contest will use records and management resources for optimum profit. A. Analysis of Records 1. Profit and Loss 2. Financial Statement a. Ratios i. Solvency ii. Liquidity iii. Profitability iv. Enterprise: Labor and Feed Efficiency b. Inventory, Assets, Liabilities, Net Worth B. Budgeting 1. Partial Budgeting 2. Total Farm Budgeting 3. Enterprise C. Cash Flow Analysis . D. Marketing 1. Cash Markets 2. Futures 3. Forward Contracting 4. Options E. Market and Purchasing Structure 1. Cooperatives 2. Independents F. Basic Tax Management 1. Depreciation 2. Investment Credit 3. Capital Gains and Losses G. Acquiring Capital 1. Credit a. Sources b. Loan Applications c. Interest d. Time-Value of Money 2. Leasing Real Property 3. Land Acquisition and Ownership 4. Machinery Management a. Purchase b. Lease vs. Purchase 5. Insurance a. Life Insurance b. Property Insurance H. Agriculture Law 1. Estate Planning 2. Firm Structure 3. Taxes ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Contest Format The Farm and Ranch Management Program will consist of two parts, a written test and a problem solving analysis. PART I - A Written Test The written test of the Farm and Ranch Management Program is designed to test members' understanding of economic principles in farm management. PART II - Problem Solving Analysis The problem solving analysis portion of the Farm and Ranch Management program is designed to determine the member's ability to apply principles of farm management to the decision making process by actual problem analysis and justifying the decisions made. Rules and Regulations for the Program 1. Members will work individually. Contestants may use silent battery powered calculators during the contest. 2. When scoring the problems, full credit will be given for accuracy and partial credit will be given for answers where procedure is followed correctly and there is a math error if it can be discernible from the work shown. 3. Any member may participate. There is no limit of contestants that can enter. 4. Once a person has won the competition, he/she may not reenter the following year. He/she may reenter the contest after the off year. Plan of Action for Hosting Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to develop and refine their skills as managers, economists, marketers, decision makers, analysts, etc. of farms, ranches and other agribusinesses. Purpose: To encourage men and women to refine their overall business management skills so they have a better opportunity to succeed. . Objective: 1234- State contests in all states Effective communications with all contestants National action plan for the promotion of contest participants An article highlighting the farm and ranch management activities Action Steps: January Prepare follow up reports on NYFEA convention activities. Write articles for the NYFEA publications. Send letters to state executives encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. Send press release on winners. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank for support. Include description of previous year's activities. April Arrange for room for test, arrange for test writer, draft article in magazine sharing the material needed to do well on the test, etc. for upcoming contest. Have past year's winners draft a letter to editor to local papers supporting ag ed and NYFEA. May Contact host state to finalize details. Collect names of state applicants. Draft letters asking for names of potential participants from states. Outline expectations and make sure each national contestant has a copy of the guidelines. June Contact state winners and ask them to attend the Institute to compete. July Draft memo to convention chair to request sight inspection of the Institute location. August Draft a letter to test writer to confirm test is complete. September Collect final data for test. October Send letters to states reminding them that they should encourage contestants for Institute contest. November Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. December Hold contest and recognize winners. PHOTO OF AGRICULTURE CONTEST .Objectives: Provide an educational program that inspires participation from members throughout NYFEA. Enhance agricultural promotion opportunities by inspiring photography of the farms, ag businesses, rural communities, activities of Young Farmer chapters, agriculture related human interest items, etc. of America. Encourage members to take quality photographs, which may be used for the NYFEA “Leader for Ag” magazine. Provide a rewarding and fun-filled experience where members are excited about participating. Contestant Eligibility: Any active member of NYFEA can enter. Past state or national winners of the NYFEA Photo contest are not eligible the year after they win. Individuals submitting photographs release copyrights to NYFEA. Rules - Individual Category Each member or advisor may submit one photo in each of the following categories: A. Chapter Activities B. Human Interest (agriculture related) C. Rural Scenery. Entries are recommended to be 5 x 7 color print(s) mounted on an 8 x 10 poster board. All pictures must have a title, which may be located on the front, back or both of the picture. General Rules Deadline - Photo’s must be delivered by close of registration on the opening day of the Institute. All entries must be identified on the back of picture with name, chapter, home address, title of picture and category. Attach securely. Entries may be picked up at the Institute registration area last day of the Institute or when announced by the Institute Committee. Must be original photographs taken by the person that has submitted the photo or photos. Topics: Photographers competing in the contest must present a photograph of an agricultural, environmental, agribusiness, or rural lifestyle topic that will provide a positive perspective of agriculture/renewable resources to an audience of consumers and producers. Selection Process: Photography winners will be selected through a process developed mutually by NYFEA and the sponsor with consideration given to the accepted photographic principle. Applications must be received by the closing of the first official day of the Institute. Entries will not be accepted after that deadline. Presentation: Presentations will occur during the NYFEA Institute. Selection of three national photography winners will be made by a panel of judges consisting of a consumer leader, an agricultural leader and a photograph expert. The names of the judges for the contest will be secured by NYFEA by Sept. 1. prior to the Institute activities. NYFEA is responsible for providing judges a copy of the photo. Judges will evaluate prior to the close of the Institute. Criteria for Selection: The judges will base their decisions on criteria established by the photographic profession, on the agricultural message communicated and on the potential utilization of the photo. Professional photographs are not eligible for the contest. Awards: In addition to any state awards, the three national photography winners will receive a plaque and be recognized at the Institute. They will receive additional awards as sponsorship allows. If You Want To Enter: Contact the NYFEA office or send in a letter stating your desire to compete. For more information about the Photo Contest contact NYFEA, PO Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120, or phone 334-288-0097. Plan of Action for Hosting Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to develop and refine their skills as photographers. Further, to utilize the photos to provide illustrations of American agriculture's importance to society. Finally, to build a historical record of American agriculture through photographs. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by capturing the uniqueness of farm life through photos. To promote the development of local photo contest. Objective: 1. 234. Photos submitted from all the states Support the magazine by using the photos National action plan for the promotion of contest winner Potentially use photographs for the NYFEA “Leader for Ag” magazine. December - Action Steps: January Prepare follow up reports on NYFEA convention activities. Write articles for the NYFEA publications. Send letters to state executives encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. March Send a letter to sponsors to thank them for support. April Arrange for photos to be displayed at Institute. Make sure Institute Committee is ready to receive photo entries during the first day of registration. May Contact host state for identification of judges. Collect names of state applicants. Draft letters congratulating each applicant. Outline expectations and make sure each national contestant is invited to the Institute. June Have past year's winners draft a letter to editor of local papers supporting erg ed and NYFEA. July Draft memo to Institute Chair to request sight inspection of the Institute location. August Draft a letter to judges confirming participation in December. September Notify media and members of current year's contest. October Draft press release for contest. November Finalize judges. Prepare any press information that judges need. Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. Receive entries, hold contest and recognize winner. Chapter Community Service Award . 1. This recognition is sponsored by the _________________________________________________. 2. To be eligible, the community projects must be conducted by active NYFEA chapter members. Also, the application must be submitted by September 1. 3. The national winners will receive a prize that is consistent with the sponsorship. 4. Presentations will be made at the NYFEA Institute. The recipients must be present to receive the award. Nomination Form 1. Project information Title of Project ________________________________________Date of Project _____________ Location of activity ______________________________________________________________ City _____________________________________ State __________________ Zip _________ Mission of Project ______________________________________________________________ 2. Chapter Information Chapter Advisor ________________________________________________________________ Name of NYFEA Chapter _________________________________________________________ Complete address ______________________________________________________________ City ____________________________________ State __________________ Zip ___________ Telephone _____________________________________________________________________ Total Members _________________________________________________________________ Years of experience in adult agricultural education ______________________________________ Please respond to the following on a separate sheet and submit it with this form. 3. Verification of Project ____________________________________________________________ Witnessed by Chapter Advisor ____________________________________________________________ Witnessed by State officer or staff ____________________________________________________________ Witnessed by Local leader 4. 5. Program Information a. Provide a description of the community service project including purpose, goals, accomplishments and list of participants. b. Provide a resume of other community projects participated in during the past year. c. Provide a budget of the programs. d. Explain how the chapter has been involved in the NYFEA and local agricultural education programs. e. Explain involvement with agriculture organizations, commodity groups, charities, etc. f. List the scope to which your project had impact? How many people participated and how many were helped? What agricultural goals were reached? Individual Involvement . a. List sponsors who assisted in the program. b. List community and civic organizations of which member is presently involved. 6. Selection of top project will be made by a panel of an agribusiness representative, consumer representative, farmer, and agricultural education instructor. Action Plan for Hosting Mission: To encourage agricultural leaders to develop and refine their skills in community service. Further, to utilize the service projects to encourage agricultural awareness. Finally, to build leadership skills through an application of service projects. Purpose: To encourage more men and women to take an active role in the support of agriculture by serving others through the application of service projects. To build leadership skills. Objective: 1234. Service projects submitted from all the states Encourage greater involvement by promoting service projects. National action plan for the promotion of contest winner Use service project reports to show organizational impact. Action Steps: January Prepare follow up reports on NYFEA convention activities. Write articles for the NYFEA publications. Send letters to state executives encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. March Send a letter to sponsors to thank them for support. April Arrange for awards to be presented during the Institute. Make sure Institute is used as a vehicle for promoting a service agenda. May Contact host state for identification of judges. Collect names of state applicants. Draft letters congratulating each applicant. Outline expectations and make sure each national contestant is invited to the Institute. June Have past year's winners draft a letter to editor of local papers supporting ag ed and NYFEA. July Draft memo to Institute Chair to request sight inspection of the Institute location. August Draft a letter to judges confirming participation in December. September Notify media and members of current year's contest. October Draft press release for contest. November Finalize judges. Prepare any press information that judges need. Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. December Receive entries, hold contest and recognize winner. Service Projects are fun and a great way to learn! . The NYFEA educational strategic plan is entitled Education for American Agriculture. It is designed to take NYFEA into the future as agriculture’s finest leadership development, business management training and community service organization. Members of NYFEA have the opportunity to participate in Education for American Agriculture’s three pronged approach to success. NYFEA believes that leadership is a skill that every member can learn. However, to become a leader for agriculture, a person must follow a simple formula: 1. Attain knowledge - Through courses on leadership, management and ag production, members are able to gain knowledge. 2. Practice implementing the information - Using the NYFEA menu of contests a person can practice effective leadership and refine business practices. 3. Apply what has been learned - Through the community service programs, NYFEA members apply the information dealing with ag literacy, world hunger, scholarships for young people, farm safety, and school involvement. The service project guidelines are designed to provide NYFEA members with the tools they need to apply their skills. This NYFEA handbook contains a sample of how to get involved with the community. Guidelines for entering the service projects. It also outlines the requirements for successful service projects. This is a tool that should make it easier for local organizations to host projects. For additional information, please call NYFEA. Innovative Grant Awards A. DESCRIPTION - Through funding provided by sponsorship on the national level, state associations are encouraged to develop new, .innovative programs to strengthen the state association. Programs can be for any amount but the maximum grant should be $1000.00 per year for any state association. Grant preference shall be given to those programs which are intended to continue for a period of years or through which benefits will be received over an extended period of time. Grant requests for educational programs and service projects will also be given priority. In the event promotional activities are not covered by the state association the national reserves the right to utilize a portion of the funds to insure adequate information sharing. Applications for the grant must be received by the NYFEA prior to May 1. A budget for the total cost of the program (which may exceed the amount for the grant) must be part of the application. A check for the approved grant will be presented at a reasonable time following selection. Upon completion of the program, a written summary of the program suitable for printing in a NYFEA publication should be presented to National for the state to remain viable for future grants. B. GUIDELINES - A state may submit one entry per year. It must be submitted by the executive body of the chartered State Association and received in the national office prior to May 1. 1. The program must be innovative for the state association. 2. Grant preference shall be given to those programs that meet an ongoing or continuing need. The grant is intended to be used as "seed" money. (i.e. educational programs and community service projects) 3. Proposals must include a program budget. If the program budget is larger than the amount of the grant, the total costs should be reflected. 4. Each state recipient must be agreeable to lending guidance, advice and a printed format to other states interested in a similar innovative program. 5. Each state recipient shall provide a report suitable for publication by the National Association and an oral report with a copy of the product produced, if applicable, to the NYFEA Board of Directors. 6. Grant monies will be awarded on a timely basis. Unclaimed moneys will be utilized to promote future participation. 7. Deadline dates are as follows: May 1 State applications due in NYFEA Executive Director's office. Selection will be made by committee from NYFEA that Includes agricultural educators, farmers and business people. The selection committee will meet during the Summer Business Meeting to make the selections. Fall State recipients to be notified. Institute Recognition and progress report/plan will be presented by recipient. State recipients will provide written summaries or evaluations to the NYFEA office. Evaluation/Selection 1. Proposal applications are to be brief. They must include, however, the following information: a. Name of state applying for grant b. Name or title of the program c. Need for the program d. Purpose or description of the program e. Expected outcomes f. Anticipated completion date g. Budget h. Project Director (name, title, address and phone number) 2. Each application will be scored by the evaluators using the following criteria. The evaluators will then have the opportunity to meet as a committee finalize the placing. a. Need for the program - 20 points Information to include a statement of need and how the need was determined and how it is justified. b. Purpose of the program - 20 points . . Information to include how the program meets the need identified in #1. c. Expected outcome of the program - 20 points Information to include what will be the short term and long term effect of the program. d. Budget - 20 points Information to include anticipated costs to carry out the program, the amount of budget requested as grant and other resources to be used to complete the program. e. Evaluation/Follow up - 20 points Describe the procedure to be used to evaluate the extent to which anticipated needs were met. Also include plans to continue program for the future. EVALUATION FORM - COMPETITIVE STATE GRANT GRANT EVALUATION AMOUNT STATE REQUEST RECOMMENDED ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ PLACING Plan of Action for Hosting Mission: To encourage chartered NYFEA state associations to develop innovative approaches to accomplishing the objectives of the state and national associations. Purpose: To encourage new and creative means of delivering leadership development, business management training and community service projects. To motivate the state associations to participate in NYFEA leadership training, business management and community service activities. Objective: 12345- Increased number of state participants. Effective communications with all states. National action plan for the promotion of contest winners. A follow up article showing the innovative grants after implementation. An action plan for the winners during the months after the Institute Action Steps: January Prepare follow up reports on convention activities. Write articles for the association publications. Send letters to executives encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank them for support. Include copies of previous year's activities. April Arrange for presentations from the previous year’s winners during the Winter Institute. May Contact future president for identification of judges. Collect names of state applicants. Draft letters congratulating each local winner. Outline expectations and make sure each contestant has a copy of the guidelines. June Draft a letter to judges confirming participation. Reserve a sight for the community service project. July Draft memo to executive director to request sight inspection of the Institute location. Contact sight of service project. August Draft a letter to judges thanking for help. Arrange for delivery of grant dollars. September Secure media exposure for winners. October Send letters to contestants reminding them that they should register for Institute. Draft press release for winners. Recruit press visits. November Make sure dollars have been delivered. December Visit with year’s winners at Institute. . NYFEA FARM PLAN CONTEST . The contest will give equal consideration to the areas listed below. Business management skills will be evaluated as well as short-term results and long-term planning. Emphasis will be placed on practical knowledge and management skills. The following is a list, although not all - inclusive, of areas to be included in the contest: DECISION-MAKING PROCESS - management rationale, economic principles involved (diminishing returns, comparative advantage, economic relationships among enterprises), choosing enterprises, types of farm organization and implications, and owning vs. leasing. Can the applicant explain how each of these principles have been applied to the farm * RESOURCE ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER - property management rationale. Why have resources been allocated to purchase/rent? Explain short-term and long-term financial implications. Explain anticipated return on acreage.* FARM MANAGEMENT TOOLS FOR PLANNING AND ANALYSIS - budgets (complete and partial), farm records, cash flow analysis and success in farm operation. Special emphasis on pre-year budgeting and post-year results.* TAXES AND GOVERNMENT PROGRAM MANAGEMENT - goal of tax and program management, emphasis on federal income tax (basis for filing, accounting methods, gross farm profit net taxable income, deductions, exemptions, depreciation, depletion, capital gains, and cost basis in property), and property taxation.* RISK AND UNCERTAINTY - consideration in decision making: evaluation, transfer and reduction; marketing decisions; and the place of insurance. MANAGEMENT IN TODAY'S ENVIRONMENT - information sources and use, farm business analysis associations, use of computers, alternative agriculture, and policy considerations. Special emphasis is placed on the role of co-ops in the farm. Explain how cooperatives have impacted the cost of inputs and the return on outputs. How has the co-op impacted marketing?* The purpose of the program is to stimulate members to learn and improve their business management skills. It is an opportunity for individuals to apply farm planning to their operation and measure the results. Objectives: I. business. Individuals competing in the contest will show how real world decision making impacts the farm A. Production Function: Benefit-Cost: MC=MR B. Opportunity Cost C. Cost Analysis (fixed-variable) D. Input Combinations E. Enterprise Selection II. Individuals competing in the contest will show how their type of farm business organization helps them be more profitable. A. Sole Proprietorship B. Corporations C. Partnerships III. Individuals competing in the contest will show how farm records and management resources help reach optimum profit. A. Analysis of Records 1. Profit and Loss for Enterprises 2. Financial Statement (not required) a. Ratios i. Solvency ii. Liquidity iii. Profitability iv. Enterprise: Labor and Feed Efficiency b. Inventory, B. Budgeting 1. Partial Budgeting 2. Total Farm Budgeting . 3. Enterprise C. Cash Flow Analysis D. Marketing 1. Cash Markets 2. Futures 3. Forward Contracting 4. Options E. Market and Purchasing Structure 1. Cooperatives - must be included 2. Independents F. Basic Tax Management 1. Depreciation 2. Investment Credit 3. Capital Gains and Losses G. Acquiring Capital 1. Credit a. Sources b. Loan Applications c. Interest d. Time-Value of Money 2. Leasing Real Property 3. Land Acquisition and Ownership 4. Machinery Management a. Purchase b. Lease vs. Purchase 5. Insurance a. Life Insurance b. Property Insurance H. Agriculture Law 1. Estate Planning 2. Firm Structure 3. Taxes _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ . Contest Format The Farm Plan Contest will consist of an annual report submitted to NYFEA from a local chapter. Only one contestant may be submitted per chapter. However, multiple chapters within a state may submit a plan. Judging will be performed by a panel of peers. Rules and Regulations for the Program 1. Members may solicit the help of advisors, instructions, and other professionals. 2. Any member may participate. There is no limit on years of entry. Only previous winners are not eligible. Plan of Action for Hosting Mission: To encourage agricultural producers to apply good farm management skills by using farm planning techniques and refine their skills as managers, economists, marketers, decision makers, analysts, etc. of farms, ranches and other agribusinesses. Purpose: To encourage men and women to refine their overall business management practices so they have a better opportunity to succeed. Objective: 1234- Entries from all states. Effective communications with all contestants. National action plan for the promotion of contest participants. An article highlighting the farm plan activities. Action Steps: January - Prepare follow up reports on NYFEA convention activities. Write articles for the NYFEA publications. Send letters . . to state executives encouraging previous year's participants. February Draft a letter congratulating previous year's winners. Send press release on winners. March Send a letter to sponsor to thank for support. Include description of previous year's activities. April Draft article in magazine sharing the material needed to do well on the test, etc. for upcoming contest. Have past year's winners draft a letter to editor to local papers supporting ag ed and NYFEA. May Contact states and chapters to encourages participation. Collect names of chapter applicants. Draft letters asking for names of potential participants from chapters. Outline expectations and make sure each national contestant has a copy of the guidelines. June Contact state associations and ask them to encourage chapter participation July Draft memo to convention chair to request inspection of the Institute program. August Draft a letter to media to announce the contest. September Collect final data. October Send letters to states reminding them that they should encourage entrants to attend the Institute. November Make sure plaques and awards are prepared. December Recognize winners. NYFEA'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM Adopt-A-Club Manual & Presentation Booklet Objective: To provide a tool for Young Farmers' to use for presentations given to community clubs and organizations, in order to demonstrate that we as agriculturists are dedicated to producing high quality products, while protecting the environment for future generations. This community involvement will strengthen the overall network of supporters for agriculture by building bonds between the schools, farms, agribusiness's, and other professionals in the community. Overall Intended Accomplishment: It is becoming increasingly important to emphasize the importance of the farm in today's changing society. The Adopt-AClub program has been designed to reach community organizations and provide them with hands-on opportunities to experience agriculture. The field of agriculture is forever expanding offering many rewards and a diverse range of exciting opportunities. Unfortunately, negative publicity has resulted in a negative perception of agriculture by the general public. This publicity has skewed the perception of a variety of important agriculture issues. Educating the end consumers will allow them to help educate their children and help make a positive impact in the future. It has been said that America is the land of opportunity. It is a place that teaches its youth that hard work and honesty can lead to a life of prosperity. From its' inception, its' people have never been afraid to roll up their sleeves, dirty their hands and dive in head first to make their dreams come true. Dreams which were often met with resistance and apprehension yet were realized by the countries' determined citizens. American history has been molded by those individuals who made great sacrifices for their beliefs and ideals. Our forefathers fought strongly to establish what would become "the land of the free." Throughout the development of our country, land has played an integral role. Its purchase, sale, and utilization has been a vital component in the American economic formula. Of these, farming has been the most vital. This next century will be challenging for the American farmer as they continue in their attempt to nurture the ever changing populous. The correlation of a healthy population and a successful nation can be easily related to the availability of safe, nutritious food for people to eat. As more and more of America's agricultural practices become regulated it becomes increasingly important for the farmer to stand up and share the importance and benefits of American agriculture. The Adopt-a-Club "Environmental Outreach Program" is designed to assist producers in taking this stand. It was developed to educate the consumers of agricultural products, a sector of the population that tends to be removed from agricultural production and issues. Through this program, people shall gain a better understanding of the hard work and decisions that farmers must perform in order to produce the safest and most affordable food supply in the world. Community Service Adopt-A-Club Manual & Presentation Booklet NYFEA'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM NATIONAL YOUNG FARMER EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION General Information In implementing the Adopt-A-Club program, it is important to identify a local community organization (ie. Kiwanis, Rotary, JayCees, other civic clubs, or professional organizations). Such organizations should be eager to have speakers attend their meetings. The goal is to present a program to the club that would send them home with a positive image of agriculture in their community. Recruiting local agricultural professionals to share in the program will give greater value to this presentation. An integral part of this process will be to thoroughly inform the general population about what is going in the various civic organizations as well as the rural community. To aid in this informative process, photos should be taken of any presentations or educational events. These pictures should then be circulated to the public in a manner that will hopefully provide a desirable image. NYFEA'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM "Commodities: From Our Gate to Your Plate" Sample Presentations Presentation There are several methods of acceptable presentation. One of these is to provide the identified club or organization with interesting and accurate information at their meeting place. This information would be centered around agricultural practices. It would explain how agriculture safely provides a variety of quality products while at the same time protects and enriches the environment. This presentation would be enhanced by utilizing examples of products, insects, and weeds. These items as well as others will help to reinforce those topics that are discussed. Another method of presentation perhaps offering a greater impact would be the provision of the aforementioned elements at a farm within the community. This farm should be one that displays good stewardship and employs accepted agricultural practice. While there, individuals would see first hand, the decisions that are made in agriculture and how those decisions can help to protect the environment. Commodity Identification: Show a picture of a beef animal which identifies the areas from where the various meat cuts are taken. Stop by the grocery store and pick up a few of these different cuts to point out differences in origin, tenderness, and marbling. Commodity Production: Briefly describe how beef cattle are raised on your farm and how that ties in to the whole picture of birth to a finished product. Raising Beef Cattle * Discuss your nutritional program, what you feed * Breeding: Natural vs. AI * How many head per acre (one acre is 43,560 sq. ft.) * Discuss herd health practices: vaccines, wormers, emergency situations etc. Protecting the Environment * Cattle are raised on land on which crops are generally not productive * Many states have ag water quality plans that determine how many feet away from streams/creeks cattle must be kept * Operations must manage manure Other Interesting Facts and Figures to Mention * Gestation period: Very similar to humans at 9 months but very different from horses at 11 months and pigs at 3 months 3 weeks and 3 days. * Amount of time from birth until slaughter generally is 30 months or less * Average weight at slaughter is 1200 pounds * Average weight at birth for your state * Number of cattle in your state, county, and farm and gross revenues generated * Beef consumption trends are leveling off, new beef products available in grocery store that save time * Average market price given to farmers vs. price sold to consumer For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18. BEEF: It's What's for Dinner! Commodity Identification: Show pictures of the five breeds of dairy animals. Also, take photos of dairy products or stop by the grocery and pick up some products for individuals to sample. Commodity Production: Briefly describe how dairy cows are raised and cared for on your farm. Discuss what happens to the raw product from the time it leaves your farm until it reaches their home. Raising Dairy Cattle * Discuss milking procedure including time of day, length of time per cow, how much milk per cow per day etc. * Milk Tank Topics: How we protect you: maximums for somatic cell counts, no antibiotics, no off aromas or flavors, maintaining proper temperature * What they eat and how much * Herd Health Procedures & Problems * Breeding: Natural vs. AI Protecting the Environment * Manure management * Limited stream/creek access for pastured cattle * Waste water management Other Interesting Facts to Mention * Gestation period is 9 months * Price of 1 gallon of milk in the grocery vs. what the farmer gets One gallon of milk weighs 8.8 pounds * Average milk production on your farm per cow * Number of dairies in the state and your county: Average size of the dairies * Nutritional value of milk products, how they fit in with our busy lives * Contributions of dairy animals to the beef market For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18. DAIRY: GOT MILK? PORK: The Other White Meat Commodity Identification: Show a picture of the pig with labeled meat cuts. Have different products available for the participants to look at or sample. Commodity Production: Briefly describe how pigs are raised on your farm and how that ties in to the whole picture from birth to end product. Raising Pigs * Discuss size of operation and whether you are raising feeders or if you are farrow to finish * Discuss nutritional program * Discuss herd health practices * Discuss the Pork Quality Assurance plans that swine producers must have Protecting the Environment * Discuss any composting methods that protect the environment * Discuss manure management including holding and disposal methods Interesting Facts to Mention * Litter size * Gestation length of 3 months 3 weeks and 3 days * Average birth weight vs. Slaughter weight and how long it takes to get to slaughter weight. * Number of hogs in state, county, and farm For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18 Chicken & The Incredible Edible Egg Commodity Identification: Take in a chicken or a picture of one. Also, take in eggs and other poultry products. Commodity Production: Briefly discuss how chickens are raised on your farm and what purpose they are for, meat or eggs. Make sure to discuss vertical integration with companies. Raising Chickens * Housing: Temperature, Ventilation, Number of Animals * Feed Requirements * Working with Companies Protecting the Environment * Manure management and alternative uses * Composting Other Interesting Facts to Mention * Average weight of meat birds * Average number of eggs per bird: clutch, need for light * What a gizzard is used for inside the bird * Number of birds in state, county and on your farm * Amount of chicken a person eats per year is about 81 pounds. * Number of eggs a person eats per year For more information for presentations see Resources on pages 15-18. Grain Crops: Corn, Soybeans, & Small Grains ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OUTREACH PROGRAM Community Service 1 Objective 2 Accomplishment Intended 2 General Information 3 Presentation 3 "Commodities: From Our Gate to Your Plate", Presentations 4-10 Beef: It's What's for Dinner 5 Got Milk 6 Pork: The Other White Meat 7 Chicken and Eggs 8 Grain Crops 9 Fruits & Vegetables 10 "Protecting the Land for Future Generations" 11, 12 "Friends of the Environment" 13,14 Information Resources 15-18 This notebook and program was created by Mr. Russell H Tipton, II, of Shelbyville Kentucky and compiled by Brittany L. Edelson Shelby County Cooperative Extension Agent for Agriculture. . NYFEA MEMBERS AND MENTORS AWARD MANUAL . .MEMBERS AND MEMBERS AWARD – MENTOR MANUAL What is the manual? This manual is designed to provide every member of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) with the opportunity to promote the personal and professional success of the America’s next generation of farmers. With the highly volatile environment that faces many of today’s young farmers, the need for support, encouragement and advice has never been greater. Therefore, NYFEA has introduced the Members and Mentors Award (MAMA). NYFEA is excited about the way this process fits together. Through this exciting program, NYFEA is able to present its best and brightest members with the opportunity to invest in the future of American agriculture. It works this way; NYFEA recruits current associational members to serve as mentors to individuals that have been selected as meeting the description of “new entrants into agriculture." The current NYFEA members, also-known-as mentors, are asked to provide encouragement and insight to the “new entrants into agriculture”, also-known-as mentorees. The support that the mentors personally provide is further enforced through the detailed career development information that is provided to the mentorees through the web-site: nyfea.org. Mentors are provided training at the annual institute and the summer program, the National Ag Leadership Conference. Plus, mentors are given a manual that includes sample material that can easily be adapted for their use. The idea is to encourage a current NYFEA member to spend 15 minutes a month to send a postcard, make a phone call, deliver an email or otherwise communicate with a mentoree. NYFEA is convinced that a few minutes invested in a friend is worth more than any material gift. To make sure that the mentorees can benefit from NYFEA, the association has also developed a process for enhancing career development. Through the specially designed mentoree section of the web-page, NYFEA will offer every mentoree the opportunity to earn the title of Certified Agricultural Professional. By completing this certification, a person will gain valuable knowledge and will increase in their personal marketability. Just as an accountant earns a CPA or a lawyer passes the Bar Exam; young farmers want to be Certified Agricultural Professionals. The measure of the effectiveness of the program will be the level of continued participation by the mentoree beyond the mentor-generated correspondence. Therefore, mentors will be encouraged to not only discuss the prepared material with their designated mentorees. They will also be encouraged to share specific farm/agribusiness experiences and encourage participation in local, state and national meetings, tours, and events. The manual is a step by step guide for serving as a mentor. It includes a detailed explanation of ‘frequently asked questions about NYFEA." It outlines the mailers that will be sent to mentorees. The manual assumes that a mentor will work with no more than 20 mentorees. Mentors will work with each mentoree for a period of two years. The material for mentoring is provided in stages that will be utilized in the order they are presented. At the end of the year, the mentor is encouraged to let NYFEA know what has been accomplished. For additional information or more resources, please give us a call at 334-0288-0097 or write us at NYFEA; P. O. Box 20326; Montgomery, AL 36120. MEMBERS AND MENTORS AWARD - NYFEA, which is the National Young Farmer Educational Association, is proud of the long-standing tradition of leadership development. Now the association is asking those leaders to take the next logical step. The association is introducing the Members and Mentors Award (MAMA) as a means of assisting in the development of the next generation of agricultural producers and agribusiness persons. By encouraging today’s successful farmers to work as advisors to tomorrow’s farm and agribusiness populations, NYFEA is promoting the personal and professional development of the agricultural population. The basic philosophy of MAMA is to increase the “pocketbook” success in the agricultural population. Plus, MAMA will help improve the overall economic climate for all of agriculture. CERTIFIED AGRICULTURAL PROFESSIONALS - MAMA participant is enrolled in the Certified Agricultural Professional (CAP) program. CAP, which is available to current NYFEA members and MAMA participants, will in-turn, help participants become the best-educated and trained agriculturalists in the nation. The CAP will be to farmers and agricultural professionals what the CPA is to accountants and the bar exam is to lawyers. The CAP will allow young agricultural people to add value to their professional resume. As farmers, they will learn “tricks” to help them be more successful. CAP will be delivered through the nyfea.org web page. Just look us up and go to the CAP link. Each month there will be a new learning tool and an interactive response page. By completing the simple steps outlined in the learning tool and corresponding through the interactive web page, participants will progress toward a certification and, before you know it, they will achieve CAP status. Once the certification is earned, then the participants will be included on the register of Certified Agricultural Professionals which will be submitted to corporate partners like John Deere, Case IH, Monsanto, Southern States, Pioneer, "Successful Farming", Firestone, AgBid, US Tobacco, ffi, AgFirst, Farm Credit, Farm Plan, Farmland, etc. Individuals earning CAP status will also see their names submitted to media outlets throughout the nation. Farmers and agribusiness professionals who are CAP recipients will soon be associated with “next level” in product value. . .MEMBERS AND MEMBERS AWARD – MENTOR MANUAL What is the manual? This manual is designed to provide every member of the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA) with the opportunity to promote the personal and professional success of the America’s next generation of farmers. With the highly volatile environment that faces many of today’s young farmers, the need for support, encouragement and advice has never been greater. Therefore, NYFEA has introduced the Members and Mentors Award (MAMA). NYFEA is excited about the way this process fits together. Through this exciting program, NYFEA is able to present its best and brightest members with the opportunity to invest in the future of American agriculture. It works this way; NYFEA recruits current associational members to serve as mentors to individuals that have been selected as meeting the description of “new entrants into agriculture." The current NYFEA members, also-known-as mentors, are asked to provide encouragement and insight to the “new entrants into agriculture”, also-known-as mentorees. The support that the mentors personally provide is further enforced through the detailed career development information that is provided to the mentorees through the web-site: nyfea.org. Mentors are provided training at the annual institute and the summer program, the National Ag Leadership Conference. Plus, mentors are given a manual that includes sample material that can easily be adapted for their use. The idea is to encourage a current NYFEA member to spend 15 minutes a month to send a postcard, make a phone call, deliver an email or otherwise communicate with a mentoree. NYFEA is convinced that a few minutes invested in a friend is worth more than any material gift. To make sure that the mentorees can benefit from NYFEA, the association has also developed a process for enhancing career development. Through the specially designed mentoree section of the web-page, NYFEA will offer every mentoree the opportunity to earn the title of Certified Agricultural Professional. By completing this certification, a person will gain valuable knowledge and will increase in their personal marketability. Just as an accountant earns a CPA or a lawyer passes the Bar Exam; young farmers want to be Certified Agricultural Professionals. The measure of the effectiveness of the program will be the level of continued participation by the mentoree beyond the mentor-generated correspondence. Therefore, mentors will be encouraged to not only discuss the prepared material with their designated mentorees. They will also be encouraged to share specific farm/agribusiness experiences and encourage participation in local, state and national meetings, tours, and events. The manual is a step by step guide for serving as a mentor. It includes a detailed explanation of ‘frequently asked questions about NYFEA." It outlines the mailers that will be sent to mentorees. The manual assumes that a mentor will work with no more than 20 mentorees. Mentors will work with each mentoree for a period of two years. The material for mentoring is provided in stages that will be utilized in the order they are presented. At the end of the year, the mentor is encouraged to let NYFEA know what has been accomplished. For additional information or more resources, please give us a call at 334-0288-0097 or write us at NYFEA; P. O. Box 20326; Montgomery, AL 36120. MEMBERS AND MENTORS AWARD - NYFEA, which is the National Young Farmer Educational Association, is proud of the long-standing tradition of leadership development. Now the association is asking those leaders to take the next logical step. The association is introducing the Members and Mentors Award (MAMA) as a means of assisting in the development of the next generation of agricultural producers and agribusiness persons. By encouraging today’s successful farmers to work as advisors to tomorrow’s farm and agribusiness populations, NYFEA is promoting the personal and professional development of the agricultural population. The basic philosophy of MAMA is to increase the “pocketbook” success in the agricultural population. Plus, MAMA will help improve the overall economic climate for all of agriculture. CERTIFIED AGRICULTURAL PROFESSIONALS - MAMA participant is enrolled in the Certified Agricultural Professional (CAP) program. CAP, which is available to current NYFEA members and MAMA participants, will in-turn, help participants become the best-educated and trained agriculturalists in the nation. The CAP will be to farmers and agricultural professionals what the CPA is to accountants and the bar exam is to lawyers. The CAP will allow young agricultural people to add value to their professional resume. As farmers, they will learn “tricks” to help them be more successful. CAP will be delivered through the nyfea.org web page. Just look us up and go to the CAP link. Each month there will be a new learning tool and an interactive response page. By completing the simple steps outlined in the learning tool and corresponding through the interactive web page, participants will progress toward a certification and, before you know it, they will achieve CAP status. Once the certification is earned, then the participants will be included on the register of Certified Agricultural Professionals which will be submitted to corporate partners like John Deere, Case IH, Monsanto, Southern States, Pioneer, "Successful Farming", Firestone, AgBid, US Tobacco, ffi, AgFirst, Farm Credit, Farm Plan, Farmland, etc. Individuals earning CAP status will also see their names submitted to media outlets throughout the nation. Farmers and agribusiness professionals who are CAP recipients will soon be associated with “next level” in product value. . When brokers are selecting their commodities or when companies are looking to hire new employees, a CAP designation will . be worth "dollars in the pocket". NYFEA BENEFITS - The MAMA program will provide encouragement and support. The CAP program will provide the learning opportunities. Together, they provide great benefits to the NYFEA member. Dues paying members have the chance to combine CAP and MAMA with long-standing programs like the NYFEA Institute each winter, the National Ag Leadership Conference in the summer, the fun-filled competitions, nation-wide community service projects, the annual NYFEA Degree recognition program, the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card program and other items on the ever-growing list of benefits. TEAM LEAD - For MAMA to have its maximum impact, the association simply asks each state to identify 10 individuals who will agree to serve as TEAM LEAD members in the state. A TEAM LEAD is a collection of individuals who are willing to be mentors and to help promote the organization’s other offerings to their fellow members. TEAM LEAD participants are offered the chance to receive special training each summer during the National Ag Leadership Conference. Plus, they are provided the support materials to effectively serve as mentors and communicators. Interactive training and web-based support will also be available to TEAM LEAD participants. MENTORING - By committing a little extra time, the TEAM LEAD participant can have a huge impact on the future of agriculture. The most important role of a TEAM LEAD participant is serving as a mentor. The mentor process is outlined in this packet of information. The mentor is asked, at least twice a year, to contact the mentorees (new members) to whom they are assigned. The personal contact can be used to invite the mentorees to the local, state or national meetings. It can be used to offer insight into harvesting decisions; to discuss the past year’s growing season, to find out how things are going at the place of business, or to offer encouragement during the school year. The personal contact is very significant. The postcards, you have a copy for your records, will be valuable tools because they provide consistent messages and encouragement to the mentorees. They will be much more effective if they are introduced to the mentorees by the personal letters that you are signing and we are mailing. NYFEA: PAST AND PRESENT - NYFEA has had over thirty years of impact. The association has had an impact on the world of agriculture because of the generous and charitable service of many members. Just as in previous years, today's NYFEA continues to meet the needs of adults striving to become more successful in their agricultural careers. NYFEA serves members and businesses that desire to be better prepared agricultural leaders, business persons and community citizens. NYFEA is a diverse organization with membership covering the entire spectrum of agriculture. From the hobby farmer to the plantation owner and from the co-op manager to the Fortune 500 executive, the association has dues paying members, which account for many acres of farm production in the United States. Furthermore, NYFEA serves customer numbers that equate to many times the membership through numerous educational programs. Last year, that number was calculated to represent 15,000 participants. Service programs allow NYFEA to directly impact the lives of agicultural people and non-agricultural people. However, the result of the service work is increasing the success potential of the entire agricultural community. NYFEA offers communication and training to its members through annual mailings, the web page and national meetings. Sponsors are provided exposure in every national mailing. CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES - NYFEA is proud to provide training seminars and mentorship services to sponsors and corporate members at affordable rates. NYFEA is committed to being a team player by maximizing the impact of all participating agricultural organizations and businesses. The association has an active stewardship program and is committed to providing recognition for its sponsors. Further, NYFEA is a 501-c-3 organization recognized by the IRS as qualified to receive tax deductible contributions. NYFEA - MEMBERS AND MENTORS AWARD “SCHEDULE OF EVENTS” - The following events are planned: The summer will include a July training session for the mentors. This July event will be followed by a series of postcards that will be mailed to each of the mentorees. NYFEA will mail these notes. They will be followed by personal phone calls and/or emails to each of the mentorees. These will be supplemented by monthly updates via the internet at nyfea.org. The internet communication will focus on career development, learning information. The idea will be for six encouraging postcards to be sent starting in August. PERSONAL CONTACTS, at least two, should occur between July and November. Plus, there will be special internet communication opportunities. MENTOR WELCOME - The mentors will be contacted by NYFEA with congratulations. They will be provided with a mentor handbook and they will be given a special opportunity to attend a training session at both the National Ag Leadership Conferences in the summer and the Winter Institute. In addition, there will be a special mentor “interactive” training program that is provided on the internet. . . MENTOR/ MENTOREE NOMINATION FORM I would like to nominate the following individuals to participate in the Members and Mentors Award program. My nominees are active in agriculture and are eager to participate in the process of training the next generation of successful, agricultural leaders. In these challenging economic times, farmers need encouragement and insight from fellow agricultural people. My nominees are aware of the purpose of the program and will be active participants. Do not hesitate to copy if additional space is needed. Return to: NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 NOMINATION FORM We are pleased to offer everyone who participates as a nominator of participants in the Members and Mentors Award program. NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: WORK No.: ________ FAX: EMAIL: SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER: .Farm Activities: .Agribusiness Activity: ZIP: ______________ HOME No.: . . MENTOR INTRODUCTORY LETTER Dear (mentor), NYFEA is pleased that you have agreed to participate as a mentor for the association. Your participation in this program has shown us that you are a true leader for agriculture. What does it mean to serve as a mentor? To answer that question, observe the following bullets: · You are going to be assigned a roster of not over 20 new members (mentorees). · You are provided the accompanying manual explaining the Member And Mentors Award (MAMA) program. · NYFEA asks you to contact your mentorees no less than two times in the next year. · NYFEA asks you to encourage your mentorees to participate in the Certified Agricultural Professionals program. You may want to refer to the six monthly encourager notes they are receiving. · You are asked to submit a follow-up report on the interaction with the different individuals. We will also list your name in our Mentors Directory. This web-based directory will contain phone numbers and email addresses of individuals willing to offer their insight to the mentorees. If you are a corn farmer, you will be categorized under grain producer. If you as a livestock person, you will be listed under these categories. If you are diversified, we will list you under each category. The web has an interactive section under the Members And Mentors Award component. The information is designed to show you an effective way to be a mentor. Please look over this data and let us know if there are specific ideas that we can further explain. If not, we will be sending your names to you in a few weeks. Good luck building these relationships. God Bless! Gordon Stone Executive Vice President, NYFEA MENTOREE INTRODUCTORY LETTER . Dear _______________________, Congratulations! You have been selected as a recipient of the National Young Farmer Educational Association's Members And Mentors Award. As a participant in this program, you have the following assurances: You will receive all the money-saving, educational service and career enhancement opportunities of NYFEA. You are enrolled in a nationwide network of farm and agricultural professionals. Your participation with this group will allow you to have a network of friends that you can contact for input and feedback. We will regularly send you an update that will help you connect with the current career enhancing activities of NYFEA. We hope you find that next twelve months of involvement in our association to be very positive. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to make friends and improve your success potential. This is a two year service that we are confident will be valuable to you. However, if you have suggestions on how we can increase its significance, please let us know. Check us out at www.nyfea.org or email us at nyfea@mindspring.com. Thanks and God Bless! Gordon Stone Executive Vice President, NYFEA MENTORS SAMPLE – PHONE CALL SCRIPT FIRST LETTER/ PHONE CALL - The mentors will be provided a sample phone call script to use for offering insight and encouragement. The script is simply a guide. 1. Hello, my name is _____________________. I am pleased to introduce myself to you. As you know, I am a farmer and am interested in visiting with you about my farm. My family and I are in the _____________ ______________________ business. We raise ______________________________ (crops) and _________________________________ (livestock). 2. Tell me about your farm. 3. What is your favorite part of farming? My favorite time around the farm is: ______________ ____________ __________________ ___________________ __________________ _____________________ ________________ 4. As you embark on your activities during the next year, please do not hesitate to call. I would like to hear how your farming operation is going and offer you any experiences that I can provide that might help you to be more successful. My phone number is __________________________ and my email is ____________________. SECOND LETTER/PHONE CALL - Hey. How are you? How is your month going? Tell me a little about your farm. How are your markets? Have you checked out nyfea.org? I hope you will take a few minutes to explore the possibilities of the Certified Agricultural Professional program. There is very helpful information enclosed. Try the monthly data. Once again, I would like to remind you that I am available to provide experience. If you have any specific questions, give me a call MENTORS EVALUATION FORM Name Phone Address Fax City St. Email Zip Yes, I contacted . (name) as one of my mentorees. Question Reaction Enthusiastic Lukewarm I encouraged him/her to participate in the Certified Agricultural. Cold Professionals program I asked if they received the regular "encourager" cards. I asked if they had used the directory. I asked if they used the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount cards. I encouraged their attendance at the National Ag Leadership Conference (summer). I encouraged their attendance at the National Institute (winter). I asked if they used the web-page. I encouraged them to stay involved and to ____ their ideas with the _____________. _________________ to share I closed by asking them what they felt were the top three problems facing the American agricultural community. 1. 2. 3. Did they propose any solutions? (Provide a summary) .NYFEA DEGREE EAA SCORECARD These degrees are sponsored by Firestone Ag Tires. We are pleased to offer everyone who participates in a NYFEA project the opportunity to qualify for a NYFEA DEGREE. NAME: EMAIL SSN: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ______ ZIP: TELEPHONE: (please include area code) WORK: ________________________________ HOME: ___________________________________ FAX: I have participated in the following activities that qualify for NYFEA Degrees and EAA points. I realize this information must be returned to NYFEA by September 1, of current calendar year. Please note that each participant must designate the degree for which the points are to be used. Do not hesitate to copy if additional space is needed. Return to: NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 ========================================================================================= 1. ACTIVITY: 1. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other _____________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 2. ACTIVITY: 2. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other _____________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 3. ACTIVITY: 3. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other _____________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 4. ACTIVITY: 4. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other ________________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= 5. ACTIVITY: 5. Witness Is this activity: ____ educational course DEGREE PURSUIT - please list date and year of activity ____ seminar ____ Leadership DATE: _____________ (please check ____ service project ____ Instructor DATE: _____________ only one) or other ________________ ____ Management DATE: _____________ ========================================================================================= Suggestions: Institute attendance = 100 points educational seminars (name/date) = 100 points tours (name of tour & date) = 100 points state conventions (state & date) = 100 points state, natl, etc. leader (year) = 100 points chapter meetings (date of each mtg.) = 100 points community service project = 100 points etc. All scorecards must be dated and witnessed Office Use Only: Date received: / /200 National Member ___ Yes ___ No - (Billed $15 from membership - Date: ___________ Entered degree points ______________ Checked address, etc. against Natl membership roster ___ Update? ___ Yes ___ No Mentorees will be selected through a The Members and Mentors Award (MAMA) is the program that connects active farmers with beginning farmers so the beginning farmers, known as mentorees, can receive encouragement and agribusiness insight. MAMA is designed to provide agricultural education opportunities to the brightest of America’s young people. The Members and Mentors Award: What is it? NYFEA recognizes the importance of America’s young agriculturists. As an organization dedicated to educating America’s agricultural leaders, NYFEA seeks to recruit bright young individuals into the arena of agriculture and train them to use their skills effectively. Plus, NYFEA would like to encourage young people currently involved in agriculture. Many of America’s finest leaders have come from rural backgrounds or have been raised in agriculture. Sponsors may chose to support Stage One or Stage Two of the program. Sponsors of MAMA receive the benefit of knowing they are helping address a serious problem facing agriculture: finding and supporting the the next generation of farmers. Each sponsor will be given exposure for their support. Annually, NYFEA will develop a summary report. Inside the report will be advertisements that are consistent with the level of sponsorship. (I.E. Using $1000 as a base, a sponsor giving $1000 will receive a half page advertisement. A sponsor at the $5000 level, will receive a two full page advertisements/ editorial content and a half page advertisement.) The sponsor will also be identified as the major sponsor of a group of mentorees. For Stage One, this classification is calculated by taking the contribution level of the sponsor and dividing by $10. For Stage Two, this classification is calculated by taking the contribution level of the sponsor and dividing by $500. The outcome will be the number of mentorees to whom they will be identified as the major sponsor. (I.E. A person in Utah will receive a congratulatory notice of being selected as a MAMA Where will the next generation of farmers be found? Through MAMA, NYFEA helps answer this question. nomination process that allows NYFEA members and sponsors a voice in the process. Mentorees will benefit from programs that expose them to opportunities to enhance their agricultural careers and refine their personal skills. By involving the mentorees in the regular programs of NYFEA, the participants will enjoy fun social activities, training in ag leadership, money-saving benefits, etc. A program of NYFEA, PO Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 p/f334-288-0097 WEB: nyfea.org The Members and Mentors Award MAMA Helps Meet the NYFEA Mission to promote the personal and professional growth of all people involved in agriculture. MAMA Outcome: More young farmers who are better equipped to survive in the competitive world of agriculture. of agricultural careers. Mentorees receive regular updates on current issues, leadership training, career enhancement and the other NYFEA programs. Plus, they will be invited to attend the National Agricultural Leadership Conference and the NYFEA Institute where they will become a part of an important network. MAMA Helps Agriculture: By supporting current grassroots agricultural education activities and exposing new people to the joys Current NYFEA members will benefit from serving as mentors because they will refine their leadership skills and improve their knowledge about agriculture. participant. The letter will also clarify that he was supported in major part by Sponsor X.) Sponsors will be assigned to the mentorees by random selection unless a particular service area is requested by the sponsor. MAMA is designed to provide exposure that is proportional to the contribution level. . Stage Two: The more advanced stage of mentoring . Sponsorship at this level is designed to provide a means for encouraging the mentorees personal participation in NYFEA’s two annual conferences. Each Stage Two mentoree will be given a credit toward the National Ag Leadership Conference (summer) or beginning in 2002 the National Institute (winter). Plus, they will be provided two NYFEA Leadership Notebooks (summer and winter). The notebooks will have specific leadership training, career enhancement and service material. This material will be supported on the web-page (nyfea.org). Sponsor identification and material can be delivered with notebooks. Examples of the learning opportunities will include “how to utilize new production tools”, “how to manage farm employees” or “how to influence ag policy.” In Stage Two, mentorees will be selected based on an application process. They will also receive the benefits that are available in Stage One. Sponsors will be given specific exposure that is proportional to the level of sponsorship and will be able to identify specific services areas. 052500 Future Expansion: Additional stages of Stage One: Through MAMA, mentorees will be encouraged and instructed by individual mentors that are assigned to them. Plus, mentorees receive all of the money-saving discounts, training and networking of the overall association. They will be provided access to the Certified Agricultural Professionals (intensive ag career training) program. From a benefits perspective, they will considered full members of NYFEA. MAMA - How it Works? NYFEA is a 501-c-3 tax deductible organization. _________ I am mailing my check to: NYFEA, PO Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 _________ Please bill me. Targeted Service Area: (Please Circle) Southwest, Southeast, Northwest, Northeast, East coast, West coast, Mid America, South, All of the Above. Contribution $______________ (annual or endowment) _______ Yes, I agree to support the Members and Mentors Award. Signature: Donors are eligible to participate at the following levels: MAMA Stage One I $100 (annually) MAMA Stage One II $500 (annually) MAMA Stage One III $1000 (annually) MAMA Stage One IV $2500 (annually) MAMA Stage Two I $5000 (annually) MAMA Stage Two II $10000 (annually) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Organization Name Organization Address: City/State/Zip: Phone Number: Fax Number: E-mail: Sponsorship of the Members and Mentors Award may occur either through annual contributions or the establishment of an endowment. Endowments are calculated by multiplying the annual cost by 10. Friends of NYFEA are encouraged to participate in the continued training of America’s future agricultural producers, agribusiness persons and community supporters. Donating to The Members and Mentors Award. The Members and Mentors Award is a program of NYFEA, PO Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120. (www.nyfea.org) farmers! encourage the next generation of foster career success and strengthen agricultural leadership, inspire personal achievement, framework of activities designed to benefit from NYFEA’s national Become a donor so others can The Members and Mentors Award . . P.O. Box 240893, Montgomery, AL 36120 P/Fax 334-288-0097 A pr ogram for individuals participating in the NYFEA Members a nd Mentors Award (MAMA) pr ogram . Provide d by NYFEA me ntors seeking to prom ote successful agr icultura l careers. believes that a successful career is the goal of every American. So, we are offering the opportunity for you to email your career oriented questions to our office at: nyfea@mindspring.com Career Development: Also, we want to point you to the Certified Ag Professional (CAP) section of www.nyfea. n00 MAMA postcards1 0 42500 E d. 1 - Card 1 - org Current CAP Topic: ___________ _________________ Thought for the Month (From Rusty Tipton 2000 NYFEA President): We want you to know that you are appreciated . We are grateful for your work to share your bounty with others. Thanks for giving. Your long hours and dedication are obvious. You may think it goes unnoticed, but it is appreciated. Thank you! Sponsored By: Southern States Coop, John Deere, Monsanto, Neal Pohlman, “Successful Farming”, Farm Plan, John Deere Credit, Central Soya, Rusty Tipton, IN-YFEA, AYAF-AEA, etc. Remember that nyfea.org is your source for 1. personal skill development, 2. “Hot Topic” updates, 3. great career pointers and 4. a fun chat room. . P.O. Box 240893, Montgomery, AL 36120 P/Fax 334-288-0097 A pr ogram for individuals participating in the NYFEA Members a nd Mentors Award (MAMA) pr ogram . Provide d by NYFEA me ntors seeking to prom ote successful agr icultura l careers. knows that successful marketing is the goal of every ag person. So, we ask that you email your farm marketing questions to our office at: nyfea@mindspring. com Career Development: Also, we want to point you to the Certified Ag Professional (CAP) section of www.nyfea. org Current CAP n00 MAMA postcards2 0 61000 E d. 1 - Card 2 Topic: ___________ you. Thanks! Thought for the Month (From Rusty Tipton2000 President): The farm spouse who keeps the kids fed and the often the books in balance. We appreciate Are you planning to attend the NYFEA meetings. The annual winter Institute is a great way to meet people and discuss ag topics. Register at nyfea.org ! Sponsored By: Southern States Coop, John Deere, Monsanto, Neal Pohlman, “Successful Farming”, Farm Plan, John Deere Credit, Central Soya, Rusty Tipton, IN-YFEA, AYAF-AEA, etc. Remember that nyfea.org is your source for 1. personal skill development, 2. “Hot Topic” updates, 3. great career pointers and 4. a fun chat room. . P.O. Box 240893, Montgomery, AL 36120 P/Fax 334-288-0097 A pr ogram for individuals participating in the NYFEA Members a nd Mentors Award (MAMA) pr ogram . Provide d by NYFEA me ntors seeking to prom ote successful agr icultura l careers. hopes you enjoy being involved. We understand that public sentiment may not always favor ag. What public opinion issue concerns you the most. Email your ag awareness concerns to nyfea@mindspring.com Career Development: Also, we want to point you to the Certified Ag Professional (CAP) section of nyfea.org. n00 MAMA postcards3 0 61000 E d. 1 - Card 3 Current CAP Topic: _________________ _________________ responsibilities. Bless them with time. Thank you! Thought for the Month (From Rusty Tipton2000 President): The farm parents who juggle work and children National Contest: Look up the Ag Expressions Contest at nyfea.org Sponsored By: Southern States Coop, John Deere, Monsanto, Neal Pohlman, “Successful Farming”, Farm Plan, John Deere Credit, Central Soya, Rusty Tipton, IN-YFEA, AYAF-AEA, etc. We encourage you to remember that nyfea.org is your source for 1. personal skill development, 2. “Hot Topic” updates, 3. great career pointers and 4. a fun chat room. . P.O. Box 240893, Montgomery, AL 36120 P/Fax 334-288-0097 A pr ogram for individuals participating in the NYFEA Members a nd Mentors Award (MAMA) pr ogram . Provide d by NYFEA me ntors seeking to prom ote successful agr icultura l careers. hears concern about farm subsidies and biotechnology. Are they good for America? Email your ideas on how farmers should react to these subjects to nyfea@mindspring.com Career Development: Also, we want to point you to the Certified Ag Professional (CAP) section of www.nyfea. org n00 MAMA postcards4 0 61000 E d. 1 - Card 4 Current CAP Topic: _________________ _________________ keeps the tradition alive. May he have good health. Thank you! Thought for the Month (From Rusty Tipton2000 President): The farm grandfather who tells the stories and Are you using the Mentor Directory? There are many individuals willing to share ideas with you. Must email them with your questions. Sponsored By: Southern States Coop, John Deere, Monsanto, Neal Pohlman, “Successful Farming”, Farm Plan, John Deere Credit, Central Soya, Rusty Tipton, IN-YFEA, AYAF-AEA, etc. Remember that nyfea.org is your source for 1. personal skill development, 2. “Hot Topic” updates, 3. great career pointers and 4. a fun chat room. . P.O. Box 240893, Montgomery, AL 36120 P/Fax 334-288-0097 A pr ogram for individuals participating in the NYFEA Members a nd Mentors Award (MAMA) pr ogram . Provide d by NYFEA me ntors seeking to prom ote successful agr icultura l careers. understands the many mergers in agribusiness. How do these impact your business? Email your ideas to nyfea@mindspring.com Career Development: Also, we want to point you to the Certified Ag Professional (CAP) section of www.nyfea. org n00 MAMA postcards5 0 61000 E d. 1 - Card 5 Current CAP Topic: _________________ off. May she have good health. Thank you! Thought for the Month (From Rusty Tipton2000 President): The farm grandmother who keeps the children so the parents can take a night National Contest: Look up the Photo Contest at nyfea. org Simply send a copy of your favorite farm scene to the NYFEA office. You might win a great prize. Sponsored By: Southern States Coop, John Deere, Monsanto, Neal Pohlman, “Successful Farming”, Farm Plan, John Deere Credit, Central Soya, Rusty Tipton, IN-YFEA, AYAF-AEA, etc. Remember that nyfea.org is your source for 1. personal skill development, 2. “Hot Topic” updates, 3. great career pointers and 4. a fun chat room. . P.O. Box 240893, Montgomery, AL 36120 P/Fax 334-288-0097 A pr ogram for individuals participating in the NYFEA Members a nd Mentors Award (MAMA) pr ogram . Provide d by NYFEA me ntors seeking to prom ote successful agr icultura l careers. understands the difficulty of finding time for all you have to do. If you could do one thing to make your business more efficient, what would it be? Email your ideas to nyfea@mindspring.com Career Development: Also, we want to point you to the Certified Ag Professional (CAP) section of www.nyfea. n00 MAMA postcards6 0 61000 E d. 1 - Card 6 org.y. Current CAP Topic: _________________ Thought for the Month (From Rusty Tipton2000 President): The farmers who retired last year. Thanks for the Sponsored By: Southern States Coop, John Deere, Monsanto, Neal Pohlman, “Successful Farming”, Farm Plan, John Deere Credit, Central Soya, Rusty Tipton, IN-YFEA, AYAF-AEA, etc. hard work. We appreciate your legacy. Thank you! Do you have a mentor? If so, who is it and what did he/she do for you? Email your answer to nyfea@mindspring.com Remember that nyfea.org is your source for 1. personal skill development, 2. “Hot Topic” updates, 3. great career pointers and 4. a fun chat room. . PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL and SPONSORS . PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL The President’s Council works with NYFEA to promote adult agricultural education and community service. NYFEA (the National Young Farmer Educational Association) and its division - the Ag Leaders Club have established the President's Council as a means of attaining advice, direction and fund raising support for the growth and development of the association. Members of the council will be askedto commit financial support andto assist NYFEA maintaina solid strategic plan. The council will have input into the curriculum and community service projects of NYFEA. r e s id e n t’s Structure: Council members will serve on a rotational basis. The council will be represented on the NYFEA Board of Directors by a person selected by the group. o NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 phone/fax 334-288-0097 www.nyfea.org u n c i l President’s Council: Action Plans Expected Council Action: Each council member will be asked to: 1 - help NYFEA set goals and objectives designed to address particular needs in the adult education community. 2 - help solicit financial contributions to the general benefit of NYFEA. Fund raising goals will be established based onthe projects given priorityduring the year. President’s Council: Benefits NYFEA is proud of the long standing relationship that has been developed with sponsors. Individuals and corporations from across the United States have supported NYFEA and adult agricultural education programs for over thirtyyears. The association has had the resources that are necessary to have an impact on the world of agriculture because of the generous and charitable involvement of these partners. Just as in previous years, today's NYFEA continues to meet the needs of adult agriculture. NYFEA serves members who desire to be better prepared agricultural leaders, business persons and communitycitizens. NYFEA specializes in leadership training, career enhancement andcommunityservice which promotes agricultural awareness. NYFEA is a diverse organization with membership covering the entire spectrum of agriculture. From the hobby farmer to the plantation owner and from the co-opmanager to the agribusiness executive, the associationhas dues payingmembers which account for manyacres of farm production inthe United States. Furthermore, NYFEA serves many times the membership through numerous educational programs and community service projects. Sponsors allow NYFEA to directly impact the lives of all of these agricultural people and, therefore, increase the success potential of the entire agricultural community. NYFEA offers exposure to its contributors through annual mailings and national meetings. Also, NYFEA produces a "Guide to Sponsors and Services" which features all national contributors. The guide is designed to benefit the contributor by encouraging members to do business with sponsors. For instance, the guide mayinclude coupons that can be used to entice customer involvement withsponsors. Further, NYFEA is a 501-c-3 organization recognized by the IRS as qualified to receive tax deductible contributions. The following is a list that outlines the benefits available: 1. Advertising space and exposure are available in annual publications. The "Leader for Agriculture" is a magazine that is designed to be distributed at least twice a year. One issue is dedicated to the annual convention while the others focus on agricultural professionalism. The “Update” is an issues oriented newsletter produced quarterly. 2. Sponsors mayparticipate inthe NYFEA program entitled Education for AmericanAgriculture (EAA). NYFEA encourages sponsors to utilize the service projects and training programs for their employees. Sponsors mayestablish mentorship programs for their customers. The mentorees could be the top customers, the best students in the local school, etc. As members, they will receive all the perks and program benefits. Members learn about leadership and career enhancement through NYFEA participation. - Courses presently available focus on leadershp training and certifying ag professionals. These courses can be accessed through distance learning, the web page, conferences and seminars. - Contests are offeredthat are fun andenhance skills. Examples are the photo, business management, spokesperson, service award, essay, farm management, etc. - Communityservice projects are available for members to applytheir training andto address issues like agricultural literacy, challenges of the hungry and homeless, concerns about food safety, etc. - Recognition programs are offered to allow members to be rewarded for their participation and completion of activities. 3. Networking and travel opportunities are available for contributors. Sponsors are welcome to attend the annual meetings of the national association. They will be recognized for their involvement with NYFEA at the annual convention in the winter of each . year. The convention features agriculture, agribusiness and cultural tours; top entertainers; the agricultural career college; etc. In the summer, NYFEA offers the National Ag Leadership Conference. The NALC provides TEAM building, mentorship, and professionalism training. These two programs provide the opportunity for sponsors to network with over 1000 attendees annually. Also, they allow the sponsor increased advertising visibility. Additional travel opportunities include state agricultural tours where sponsors are welcome. 4. Agricultural education is an integral part of the success of the agricultural community and sponsors are a vital component in the success of ag ed. NYFEA is recognized by the United States Department of Education as the official adult student organization for agriculture. NYFEA's audience of adults represents the single largest pool of potential participants in agricultural education. Members of NYFEA belong to the lifelong learning branch of the agricultural education system. A strong NYFEA means better producers, more efficient and higher quality businesses and more knowledgeable consumers. Mission Statement: The mission of the National YoungFarmer Educational Association (NYFEA) is to promote the personal and professional growth of all people involved inagriculture. We strive to develop and provide educational and leadership opportunities to educate others so they, too, caneducate. We provide a national frameworkto inspire personal achievement andto strengthenagricultural leadership, whichfosters economic growth. Objectives: To provide continuing education and community service opportunities to adult agriculturists in every state in the United States. To build leadership and business management skills in agricultural people and to develop an agricultural awareness in the general public. To provide a means for keepingagricultural trainingavailable bystrengtheningagricultural education andprovidingdistance learning. To have a financiallymature associationto facilitate lifelong learning and increased community service. NYFEA: A Description Educational and Service Programs 1. Provide a menu of learning tools that can be accessed from the home, the school, the business, etc. 2. Develop and host local, regional and national contests to enhance learning, encourage participation and provide fun. 3. Select a service agenda that supports ag awareness. Provide guidelines, training programs and recognition for participants. 4. Work with local school programs to strengthen the community support and the agricultural impact. 5. Impact the furture generation of agricultural people by providing career enhancement opportunities. Meeting and Conferences 1. Host one statewide educational and community service conference/ seminar in every state. Partnership with grassroots agricultural organizations, commodity groups, businesses, and educational groups. 2. Build a series of regional activities and at least two national activities to support local members and attract new participants. Membership 1. Recruit a core group of young agricultural leaders in every state. Identify a base of donors who will establish a mentorship program to allow NYFEA to recruit these young leaders from the colleges, FFA programs, etc. 2. Develop an effective means of identifying, recruiting and retaining members in a system of lifelong agricultural learning and cost saving benefits. Financing 1. Maintain a base of active NYFEA members who pay dues ($15/year). Add value to the dues and adjust cost accordingly. 2. Encourage a members to subscribe to the membership services. 3. Utilize 501-c-3 status to recruit sponsors for programs, projects and activities of NYFEA. Provide sponsors maximum value for their support. 4. Develop an active annual plan of work for the corporate advisory council, The President's Council. 5. Provide a national endowment supported by individuals, foundations and businesses that have benefited from NYFEA activities. Communications 1. Service members with regular communications: magazines, internet and newsletters. Provide maximum exposure for all sponsors. Administration 1. Provide efficient, low overhead organization that utilizes synergistic opportunities like partnerships and contracted services to maximize the return on the investment. 2. Utilize the latest in technology to control costs and increase return. 3. Operate with integrity and accountability in program management, financial affairs and members relations. Stay true to the mission of NYFEA and cause of agriculture. Registration form: Name: _____________________________ Company Name: __________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________ _____ Yes, I want to register for the NYFEA President’s Council. _____ Yes, I would like to become a corporate member. I have enclosed a tax deductible contribution of $1000. Mail to: NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 or fax to NYFEA at 334 - 288 - 0097 PresCncl Br.pub 11/16/00 . Institute Management . Institute Management Institute Management Plan Mission: To follow a management plan that allows the local members, state organizations and the national organization to maximize their level of benefits from the annual convention (Institute). Vision: To annually host an institute that attracts individuals into NYFEA’s education and community service work. Mission: To create an exciting and profitable annual convention where agricultural awareness is heightened and both current and future young farmers are encouraged to become agricultural leaders. Objectives: 1. To maximize the profitability of the institute for the whole: state organizations and NYFEA. 2. To capitalize on efficiencies in the planning and hosting of the annual meeting so as to enhance the profitability. 3. To create a consistent marketing mechanism and message that is efficiently and effectively delivered. 4. To create an exciting program that attracts a broad base of current members. 5. To create enthusiasm and interest among non-NYFEA members as a vehicle for enticing them to join the association. 6. To have a profile event where the association’s annual activities are highlighted. 7. To develop an annual occasion for recognizing and rewarding successful NYFEA leaders and associational supporters. 8. To develop networking opportunities that allow attendees to secure relationships with people of similar interests from across the United States and around the world. Plan: The first step in the plan is to study the past institutes and understand the reason for hosting an institute. Each of the states serving as hosts of the institutes has had the opportunity to add their local twists to the agenda. The agendas of previous institutes have remained fairly consistent. Therefore, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current process is fairly easy. a. The strengths of a management plan for hosting the institute are evident. It has a longstanding tradition of offering unique educational programs. The first-class tour program where visitors see farms in the host area is an aspect of the institute that is unique. In addition, the involvement of members in hosting the national convention is also unique. b. The weakness of the past process was the inefficiencies that were created by having a new group of amateur meeting planners working the project each year. The association had three institute committees working on the convention for three different cities in three different states at the same time. For example, if Montana, Washington and Hawaii were hosting the institute, there would be three registration chairs, three entertainment chairs, three food chairs, etc. This plan resolves that concern. . Bidding: . The institute sight will be selected based on an adapted version of the traditional rotation between states. One change in the procedure occurs when a state chooses not to serve at the host state. Under the conditions of the new plan, if two consecutive states refuse their turn, the opportunity to select the host sight falls directly upon the national association. Under those circumstances, the location for the institute is totally at the desecration of the NYFEA board of directors. In addition, the rotation will be altered to include an every third year where the choice of the location falls directly upon the shoulders of the NYFEA board. The east/west issue will not be in effect when the national board makes its selection. If the national board serves as the host the rotation will be reset so that national assumes responsibility again in three years. Also, the states refusing their turn will fall to the end of the order. Host City: Once a state agrees to accept the opportunity to serve as the host state, the choice of cities within the state will be limited to locations that provide easy and affordable transportation, appropriate meeting facilities, competitive pricing for the facilities, and an attractive marketing program. The decision as to whether these parameters are met will be based on the research of the national staff and will be made by the national board of directors. Selection of Meeting Dates: The NYFEA board of directors with input from the host state will determine the selection of the dates for the meeting. The selection will take into consideration the American Vocational Association annual meeting and other potential conflicts. It is the desire of the national organization to avoid as many conflicts as possible. Preliminary Schedule of Events: The schedule for the week will be determined by the NYFEA board with input from the host state. The schedule will be set in advance so the host state will have an opportunity to plan its tours and local offerings. Early indications will allow for more efficient planning for all parties. National Institute Committee: The national institute committee will consist of co-chairs. One selected by the national board and one by the host state. The nominated co-chairs will have to be approved by the delegates at the meeting immediately following the recommendation of the NYFEA board. The institute co-chair will fall into the board slots as designated in the board structure. They will rotate their board vote on an even basis. The committee will be selected by the board. The committee will most likely consist of, but is not limited to, individuals from the board, the host-state and the general membership who serve in the following capacities: Regional Participation Coordinator (broken into three state regions) Publicity Coordinator (divided into geographic regions) Regional Fund Raising Coordinators (divided into geographic regions) Volunteer Coordinator Volunteer Leader Registration Leader Communication Leader Sponsor Relations Program Leader Banquet Leader Entertainment Leader Tour Leader Local-Flavor Leader Hospitality Leader Quality Control Leader Feedback Leader Trade-Show Leader Advertisement Coordinator Auction Leader Service Project Leader Contest Leader Media Leader Other potential positions. . . Each of these positions may be filled by a different individual. However, one person may handle multiple positions. Each position will have specific assigned responsibilities. Individuals will be asked to perform a limited scope of responsibilities that fit their personal budget and time allotments. Individuals in these positions will be encouraged to not overload their personal capacity. They will be encouraged to recruit sub-committees to work with them. Individuals will be selected from across the country to serve in these capacities. If a host state is in place, attempts will be made to recruit local people. Attempts will be made to involve a diverse amount of individuals in the organizational program. The goal will be to have representation from all states. In addition, an objective will be to include individuals from different age groups (20-30, 30-40, 40-50, 50+, etc.). Ethnic and gender make up will also be taken into consideration. Each individual serving on the committee will have an added responsibility of helping encourage attendance and recruiting to meet that goal. Host State Activities: The host state will be responsible for participating in activities that will bring a local flavor to the Institute. Areas where the host state will make a significant impact include: tours, on-site publicity and promotion, Friday breakfast, Friday evening’s banquet, local trade show exhibitors, door prizes, table favors, local presenters, etc. In an effort to keep the local flavor strong, the host state will have the opportunity to have total control over tours. The host state will have control over the tours and the national would begin to promote them as a part of the overall program. The deadline for the host state finalizing a budget and the preliminary details of the tours would be two years in advance of the start of the meeting. Other stipulations designed to ensure year-in-year-out consistency would include a certain time frame for tours. Tours will depart and arrive in sync with the evening’s activities. Tours will have a mixture of agricultural, historical and cultural opportunities. A phase of the tours that is designed to be attractive to the host state, is the opportunity to solicit sponsorship for tour activities. Proceeds from tour sponsorship go strictly to the host state. Any funds solicited by the host state for the tour would be retained by the host state. They would utilize those funds to conduct the program and then have the opportunity to improve their state’s financial structure. Each tour would be budgeted as a part of the registration. This portion of the registration would be provided to the host state to offset costs. The host state would have the opportunity to host the breakfast and evening meal on Friday. The meals and their programs would be at the sole discretion of the local committee. Dollars will be set aside in the registration budget, so they could be profit centers if costs are offset by sponsorship. Again, all dollars generated for the meals would be at the discretion of the host state. The host state would also have the responsibility of involvement of the local media. A media room would be established at each Institute. It would be the host state’s responsibility to ensure that media representatives attended the meeting. Another aspect of the Institute that would fall under the direction of the host state would be home-state attendance recruiting. Traditionally, a large percentage of attendees at the Institute were individuals from the host state. It would be the responsibly of the host state to see that this trend continued. For every registered attendee at the Institute from the host state, the host state would receive $5.00 per attendee. In addition, the host state would have the opportunity to provide table favors for the attendees. If the host state were able to generate funds to sponsor the lunch meal, the profit from that sponsorship would return to the host state. However, no dollars are set aside in the registration budget for the lunches. Finally, the host state would be responsible for providing volunteer workers to assist with the meeting during the week of the convention. At least 10 volunteer workers should be available on a daily basis to assist the institute meeting planners. Responsibilities of the National Committee: All activities not falling under the responsibility of the host state committee will be the responsibility of the national. The national committee activities will range from program scheduling, itineraries, scripts, presenters, entertainers, food, banquets, registration, transportation (with the exception of tours), hotel, hospitality, contests, media follow up, etc. . Memorandum of Understanding: . The institute began 33 years ago as an adult networking opportunity. It was hosted by states that featured active young farmer associations. As the popularity of the meeting grew, a structure and guidelines were developed. Eventually, the structure became the National Young Farmer Educational Association (NYFEA). In 1982, NYFEA was incorporated and the association began to develop a cooperative arrangement for the national and state to work together on the meeting. In 1996, NYFEA changed to a rotational procedure for selecting a host sight of the meeting. States continue to have first priority for hosting the Institute and continue to utilize a Memo of Understanding as a vehicle for coordinating activities with NYFEA. This plan document provides the details to which both parties agree. It is, therefore, to be an addendum to the Memo of Understanding. Schedule of Events: Generally, the schedule of events has started with a board meeting, the delegate session and the spokesperson contest on the first day. The historical program is as follows: The first evening typically consisted of the opening banquet and flag ceremony. The next morning included a breakfast banquet, which was followed by tours. That evening there was local entertainment. The third full day is similar to the second day. The fourth day included educational programs, the auction, the trade show, and an evening banquet. Traditionally the fourth day would feature a more outstanding speaker or better known entertainment. Occasionally, institute committees took the second, third or fourth day evening banquets to different locations in order to add local flavor to the evening’s activities. Two of the four evening banquets might be held off-site. In some cases, only one day of tours is hosted and the final banquet was held on Sunday morning. The traditional institute program includes important association business. Among those features was the presentation of awards to contest winners. Presentations were also given by officer candidates, election winners, local dignitaries, motivational speakers and representatives of future institutes and activities. The history of the institute programs has been taken into consideration during each stage of the development of this plan. The following is a day-by-day breakout of the proposed new institute schedule. The program begins on Thursday morning with a day of optional activities. Individuals desiring to participate in local tours of agricultural and cultural events may register for optional tours beginning on Thursday. The optional tour will be handled by the state committee. In addition to the optional tours, Thursday will include an opportunity for athletic competition. These athletic style competitions will be designed to serve as organizational fund raisers, as well as, fun team-building events. For example, the association may host a golf tournament or fishing tournament during the day on Thursday. Late Thursday afternoon, the board of directors will meet. The delegates will meet on Thursday evening. There will be time for a 2-½ hour delegate session. The opening activity of the institute will be a breakfast meeting on Friday morning. This event will serve as a celebration of institutes past and provide an opportunity for state leaders to welcome visitors to the area. The breakfast would start at 8:00 a.m. and adjourn at 9:30 a.m. Host state committee will have the opportunity to put together the breakfast meeting, ag tours during Friday and the evening banquet. Friday will feature a full day of tours. The host state will have the option of developing tours. The tours will be based on the discretion of the host state. Lunch will also be at the state’s discretion. The Friday evening banquet will feature the state committee which will have the option of hosting the evening’s activities. It will feature local entertainment and festivities as planned by the host state committee. Saturday will emphasize the educational component of the institute. The conference will feature national speakers and be built around the theme for the upcoming year. It will be the kick-off for the association’s annual service agenda. The institute will have an honorary chair that will be introduced at this time. In addition, the institute will have three major speakers and panel discussions for visitors who are interested in learning more specific information about the topic. To add flair, there could be decorations and possibly even instrumental band performances to make the event as lively as possible. It will be an action packed day, with breaks between all presentations. Saturday evening will feature an exciting entertainment venue that allows attendees to experience the local entertainment offerings. For instance, the WildHorse Saloon in Nashville or one of the shows in Las Vegas would be good examples. The program during the day on Saturday would consist of the Ag Leadership College. The activities would include between three to six educational programs; exhibits, trade shows, and numerous service oriented activities. Lunch on Saturday would probably be on your own (depending on the local state). Saturday afternoon would offer a continuation of the morning activities. . . Sunday morning will allow for an early morning delegate session, breakfast banquet and closing activities. Associational business would be the focus of the program. However, motivational speakers and/or entertainment would be considered. Attendees will be clear to leave before noon on Sunday. Sunday afternoon will feature the annual board of directors and President’s Council activities. Additional features that will be plugged into the program will include a time for delegate orientation and training for attendees to take back to the local level for implementation. This training could be a feature of the Saturday morning programs; however, it could also be included in other aspects of the institute. Depending on funds raised and overall popularity, the Friday and Saturday aspects of the schedule could be adapted to meet preferences of the attendees and personalities of the local area. For instance, if no agricultural tour opportunities surfaced, ag leadership seminars on Friday could be substituted. Key aspects of this scheduling will be the optional components for various programs. The demands of society and limitations on personal time, make a shorter program attractive to a large group of people. The flexibility for Friday and Saturday programs is designed to allow for partnership with other entities that might have similar goals as NYFEA and would be a good way to merge activities during those time-frames. The national institute committee will have responsibility for identifying speakers, entertainers and tours that fall in line with the overall theme selected for the meeting. Each aspect of the program will focus on ag education, leadership development, community service and increased awareness of ag issues. Finances: The majority of the money raised for the institute will come from the work of the national institute committee. Individuals selected to participate on the committee will have the responsibility of assisting with the fund raising program. Obviously, the amount of funds raised will greatly impact the flexibility of the agenda. BUDGET Currently, the budget is designed to look as follows: Ag Leadership College: The first budgeted item is the Ag Leadership College. The ag leadership college is currently designed to be held on Saturday. Major components of the budget for the ag leadership college include educational programs, awards, degree ceremony, contests, community service examples and fund raising events. Under the current bare-bones budget, the variable costs set aside for the Saturday morning program is $15.00 per person. Also, $15.00 per person is set aside for Saturday afternoon. Evening Banquet: The next major item is the evening banquet. The evening banquet is set up with categories for both Friday and Saturday night. In order to consolidate the variable cost, it will be budgeted in conjunction with the meal function. Entertainment: The entertainment section will focus on Saturday night programs. The current bare-bones budgeting approach allows for a $25.00 per person charge for the Saturday night activity. Awards: The next major function is the awards section. The awards would be based on a charge of $2.50 per person in the bare-bones budget program. Involvement: The next major section would be involvement of the states. This is designed to create activities where states are encouraged to take a role in one of the major educational aspects of the institute. For instance, provide a community service example on Saturday morning as a part of the Saturday morning program. In order to provide a bare-bones budget; however, this is not a budgeted item. . Meals: . The next major section concerns meal functions. Currently, the meal functions are designed to include the Friday morning breakfast at $15.00 per person, a dutch treat lunch on Friday, a Friday night program that includes a $30.00 per person. A Saturday breakfast is budgeted at $15.00 per person. A Saturday lunch is on your own. A Saturday night meal is budgeted at $30.00 per person. A Sunday breakfast at $15.00 per person. Tours: The next major item of significance is the tour program. Currently, under the bare-bones recommendation there is only a tour scheduled for Friday. This is budgeted at $30.00 per person. Community Service: The next major section is community service. The community service section of the budget is designed to allow for the organization to include a major community service initiative in the host city. Under the bare-bones budget it is not included. Speakers: The next major section concerns speakers. Under this category, the speaker aspect of the program is not budgeted in the bare-bones program. Hospitality: The next section to be included in the budget is hospitality and on-site registration. In order to add special warmth to the meeting, the bare-bones budget has a $8.00 per person charge for this area. Trade Show: The trade show is an important feature that can be offered at the meeting. However, in the bare-bones budget it is not covered. Transportation: The next major section is transportation. Due to the fact that this is a bare-bones budget, the transportation costs have been incorporated into the costs of the entertainment and/or tours. In an attempt to allow for minimal budgeting concerns, the providing of transportation to and from the airport is not included. Programs and Publications: Programs and publications include the development of handouts for the meeting. The handouts are used to guide people through the activity of each day. This is to be budgeted at $2.50 per person. Registering Attendees: The cost of registering attendees includes some of the cost of the pre-meeting activity. During the first year, this cost would be absorbed by the association. However, after the first year the registration activity would be provided in the membership category associated with the budget. Sponsors: The sponsor category is not allocated because it is a bare-bones budget. However, the sponsor aspect is important and will need to be budgeted as the level of sponsorship increases. This category will also need to increase as the sponsorship area increases. Membership and Partner Progress: Membership participation is designed to encourage activity both before and after the meeting. The bare-bones budget includes a $15.00 per person cost for this category. It will allow for promotion and follow-up to occur. Media and Marketing Plan: The media and marketing section has a, magazine, radio, videotape and newspaper component. Due to the bare-bones budget, it will be set at $10.00 per person. Alumni Activities: The alumni focus is set up to allow for the encouragement of previous associational spokesperson, farm management, and other contest winners to be invited to attend. Along with former contest winners, the alumni activities would include invitations and special receptions for former institute chairs and institute committee members. The bare-bones budget does not allow for dollars to be set aside for the alumni. .. Special Guests: . The special guest section is similar to the sponsor area. As more dignitaries are invited, the organization will want to offer them special treatment. The bare-bones budget does not allow for money to be set aside for this area. Photography and Documentation: Photography and documentation are a significant part of any successful meeting. However, under the bare-bones budget it is not covered. The individuals would be encouraged to take pictures and a creative mechanism would be established to allow for these pictures to be collected and utilized. Souvenirs and Favors: Again under a bare-bones budget, souvenirs and favors are not included. While everyone would like to have souvenirs and special unique and memorable items to provide for the attendees, the bare-bones budget does not include this item. Institute Highlights: The Institute Highlights is an important feature of the post meeting. Under the current scenario, it would be included in the association’s overall budget. So it is not in the bare-bones budget of the institute. Accommodations: The accommodation aspect of the budget is set up for the potential room cost if the contract is not fulfilled. Given the bare-bones budget, the association will attempt to negotiate a participation level that requires a minimum number of rooms. Pre-meeting, Promotion and Administration: The pre meeting, promotion and administration charge associated with the institute is set up to allow the association to recruit new participants and to handle the various administrative duties associated with pre-meeting registration and hosting the event. The cost listed in the bare-bones budget is $20.00 per person. Committee Expenses: The committee expenses for hosting the institute is the next major section. Although committee expenses can be burdensome to the volunteer workers, the use of conference calls and the internet will alleviate some of this responsibility. Therefore, in the bare-bones budget, no committee expenses have been set aside. Audio/Visuals: The audio/visuals are important because each function has a need for sound and lighting. In order to enhance the value of the program to the participants. The audio/visual component has been charged at $7.00 per person. Delegate and Board Meetings: The delegate and board meetings of the association are important because they provide for the delivery of materials that allow many leaders to take what they learn and provide it back to the local members. Therefore, the bare-bones budget includes a charge of $5.00 per attendee. Combining Per Person Charges: When taking all of the above components and combining the per person charges, the institute’s per person registration fee would equate to $270.00 per person. However, it is extremely important to realize that the current bare-bones budget is based on per person costs only. In many cases, the aspects of the institute will be covered by sponsor contributions. As these sponsor contributions become a component of the institute budget, the per person charges could be reduced. In addition, it is important to note that some economies of scale will result as the number of registrations consistently increases. The current bare-bones budget would allow for the institute to break even at 400 attendees. This is a conservative attendance estimate based on trends rather than on the history of the institute. The use of this new institute plan should allow that number to improve. As the number of registrations increase, some costs will hit a ceiling, and the per person cost will go down significantly. For example, educational programs, entertainment and marketing costs should level off at some point. Obviously, many of the unbudgeted aspects of the outline listed above are important features that would ideally be included. However, under the scenario provided, the association will most likely include these once the attendance and/or sponsorship numbers are improved. The decision as to how the budget will be adjusted will be made by the national association's institute leadership. .. Plan's Objective: . Thursday - Friday Saturday Sunday It is important to note this plan is designed to allow for the association to continue the critical programs while creating more efficiencies. It is also designed to enhance the value of the program for those attending. As a major component of the national organization’s administrative responsibility, the association’s goal is to make the institute as successful as it can possibly be. Draft: Institute Schedule Optional tour (All day) (State Host) -Golf, fishing, hunting, etc. (All day) optional (NYFEA Host) -Board Meeting (5:00 p.m.) -Delegate Meeting (7:00 p.m.) Opening Breakfast Banquet (State Host) -Ag tour (State Host) -Optional lunch (State Host) -Local entertainment / evening meal (State Host) Breakfast Banquet (NYFEA Host) -LEAD conference – morning (NYFEA Host) -Optional lunch (State Host) -LEAD conference – afternoon (NYFEA Host) Big name speakers (morning and afternoon) Trade show Exhibits (educational) (Involve schools) (Beginning farmers) (Partner organizations) -Big name entertainment/evening meal (NYFEA Host) Closing session – brunch (NYFEA Host) Institute Budget Total Cost = $108,000 1. Meals (Total $105) 2. Entertainment (1 x $25) 3. Ag College (2 x $15) 4. Tours (1 x $30) = 5. Pre-meeting Promotion (1 x $20) 6. Programs (1 x$2.5) 7. Membership and Partner Progress (1 x $15) 8. Awards (1 x $2.5) 9. On-sight Registration Hospitality (1 x $8) 10. Media and Marketing (1 x $20) 11. Audio Visuals (1 x $7) 12. Delegates and Board (1 x $5) = = = = $30 x 400 $105 x 400 $25 x 400 $30 x 400 = = = = $12000 $42000 $10000 $12000 = = $20 x 400 $2.5 x 400 = = $8000 $1000 = = $15 x 400 $2.5 x 400 = = $6000 $1000 = $8 x 400 = $3200 = = $20 x 400 $7 x 400 = = $8000 $2800 $5 x 400 = $2000 .. State Benefits .The following is a partial list of the benefits that would accrue to the state association that agrees to serve as the Host State for the institute. The state association will be able to highlight local farms and cultural sights. The state will have the exclusive opportunity to plan and host Friday’s daytime activities. Plus, the state association has the opportunity to host the optional lunch on Saturday and the optional tour on Thursday. The state will have the opportunity to feature local speakers and state leaders during the Friday morning breakfast, Friday evening banquets, and both lunches. The state will have the opportunity to profit financially and will be offered a much smaller risk. The state will have a compensation package that includes budgeted dollars, which can be used to pay for the cost of the events. However, if the state chooses to raise sponsorship for those events, the budgeted dollars can flow back to the state. The state can spend more time and energy working on the recruitment of institute participants. The state is encouraged to recruit because the state has an opportunity to receive a $5 per attendee that is a resident of host state. The $5 will serve as commission for their recruiting efforts. The state has the opportunity to provide table favors, give away commemorative items, provide promotional material, highlight state accomplishments, etc. .. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT .The (date) National Educational Institute, hereafter referred to as the Institute, is a national activity providing opportunities for educational growth, social interaction, the conduct of association business and participants to see the country. These opportunities are provided through a cooperative effort between the National Young Farmer Educational Association, hereafter referred to as NYFEA, and Oklahoma, hereafter, referred to as the state Institute Committee. This agreement is to commemorate in writing the understanding between the parties as to the responsibilities and duties in carrying out a successful Institute. This Agreement shall commence on the date signed and continue through completion of stated responsibilities. A signed version of this agreement must be submitted prior to the intention of bid or acceptance as a host sight. Otherwise, a potential host will not be eligible to receive the bid. Generally, those activities that are ongoing and continue from year to year are the responsibility of the NYFEA vested in the Board of Directors. These would include, but are not limited to National Contests and Programs, Board of Directors and Delegate Meetings, including Standing Committee Meetings and work with National Sponsors who support the Institute on an ongoing basis or sponsor special projects. The state Institute Committee shall have responsibility over activities that are specific in nature: Friday breakfast, Friday banquet, Friday ag tour, optional lunches, and optional tours. SECTION I ACTIVITY RESPONSIBILITY Date Selection According to the NYFEA policy adopted by NYFEA in 1999 and beginning in the year 2002, the Institute should be scheduled to begin on a Friday and go over the weekend after the second Saturday of December. NYFEA will provide the Institute Committee with dates of the American Vocational Association (AVA) - National Vocational Agriculture Teacher’s Association (NVATA) Convention for the corresponding year upon the granting of the bid. The Institute Committee will set the dates in accordance with No. 1 of the guidelines in Section II of this agreement. Facility Selection NYFEA shall select and contract for the facilities in accordance with the guidelines. Schedule of Activities The schedule of activities, with the exception of Thursday’s tour and all day Friday, shall be developed by NYFEA in compliance with the guidelines and needs of Board, Delegate, and Standing Committees. These will be communicated with NYFEA as per the guidelines in Section II. The Institute schedule includes brief comments by the NYFEA Executive Vice President (Executive Director), hereafter referred to as Executive Director, and Executive Committee members. Also, it will include a meal function for NYFEA to present awards, make presentations, etc. Registration Institute registration and lodging shall be the responsibility of the NYFEA. Promotion NYFEA shall develop promotional material for the Institute. Entertainers The selection and contracting for Saturday and Sunday speakers and entertainers shall be the responsibility of the NYFEA. Friday’s entertainment is the responsibility of the state. Ag Leadership College Speakers and seminars are a function of the Ag Leadership College, which will be coordinated by NYFEA. NYFEA will insure that the national mission is accomplished in the Ag Leadership College through speakers and seminars. National Programs NYFEA, as funding allows, shall be responsible for the following programs/contests: and Contests Spokesperson for Agriculture, Farm and Ranch Management, Reporter of the Year, Grant for Innovative Program, European Exchange Mission, Institute Highlights and others as provided. NYFEA will arrange facilities, time on the program, media tours, judges, local contacts, meals, and other logistics as needed. Programs Printed programs shall be the responsibility of the NYFEA. Information regarding the NYFEA (including sponsors) will be provided by the NYFEA office. Securing of Sponsors Continuing national sponsors shall be coordinated through the NYFEA. These sponsors will be identified as per a list maintained by NYFEA. (Reference Numbers: 4, 14 and 16 of the guidelines in Section II). Additions and deletions to the list can be made upon agreement with NYFEA. Financial Agent / Liability The NYFEA will be the financial agent and have financial liability as per the organizational structure for the features of the program that are not the specific responsibility of the state organization. .. . Invitations The sending of invitations and taking the responses will be a shared responsibility. Those state officials important to the success of the Institute shall be invited by the host committee. National representatives of Agricultural Education Organizations, Farm Organizations, Sponsors, and United States Department of Education (USDE) will be invited by the NYFEA. SECTION II ACTIVITY RESPONSIBILITY Following the securing of the bid to host the National Institute the following guidelines should be used to develop this Memorandum of Agreement. Further definition can be found in the Institute Management Plan that is provided as an addendum. 1. The Institute date should be set by NYFEA so the convention begins with optional events on Thursday and main programs on Friday, normally in December. 2. A preliminary schedule (framework) of Institute activities shall be developed by September 1st of the year, two years prior to the Institute. 3. The State Institute Committee shall present a preliminary budget for its activities to the Executive Vice President (Executive Director) by September 1st of the year, two years prior to the Institute. 4. The State Institute Committee shall meet with a representative of NYFEA in the calendar year two years prior to the Institute. This meeting will specifically deal with host state activities. 5. The Institute registration fee will be set by the NYFEA Board of Directors. .NYFEA shall assume no responsibility or liability for any financial shortfall of the State Institute Committee. Nor shall the Host State assume any risk for the activities under the direction of NYFEA. 7. The Institute program shall include opportunities for participants to take part in educational seminars, workshops, and area tours. 8. A plan shall be presented by the State Institute Committee one year prior to the Institute to the Executive Director for the publicizing of the Institute in the local area. 9. NYFEA shall provide time and meeting room space for Board of Directors meetings, Delegate meetings and Executive Secretaries' meetings during the Institute program. 10. Executive Director will receive copies of correspondence and minutes of Host State committee meetings. 11. NYFEA shall pay $5 to the chartered “host” state organization per paid registrant that is a resident of the host state. It will be due and payable within six months of the close of the Institute. 12. NYFEA will work with appropriate service providers and the State Institute Committee to secure general support for the Institute from sponsors. Accounting and processing of invoices, related to national raised or coordinated funds, should be handled through NYFEA office. 13. Funds for the Institute that are part of a special project of NYFEA will be paid to the vendor upon receipt of an invoice. If external fund raisers are utilized, funds solicited must be coordinated, and managed through NYFEA. 14. A list of sponsor contacts will be developed by NYFEA and the host state will provide communication on the status of the contacts with sponsors. 15. NYFEA will develop a theme. .. . Signed: State Institute Committee Chairperson: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________________________________________ Institute Chair: ___________________________________________ (host state committee of Institute): Date: ___________________________________________ NYFEA Exec. Vice Pres.: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________________________________________ NYFEA President: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________________________________________ . . NYFEA P.O. Box 20326 – Montgomery, AL 36120 – Phone/Fax 334 – 288-0097 Web address: www.nyfea.org – email: natloffice@nyfea.org “As America’s association for educating agricultural Leaders, NYFEA promotes the personal and professional growth of its members by training them to be leaders who host community service projects that improve agricultural awareness.” MEMO To: NYFEA Executive Secretaries/Contacts From: Gordon Stone Subject: National Institute Rotation Below is a list of the states that have hosted or committed to host institutes. Beginning at this point, the states are listed in the order proposed by the rotation process. As you can note from the list, we will insert the national association in the rotation for every third year. The order will not change. Simply, the year that the opportunity comes will change. Thanks and God Bless! National Institutes Eastern 1967 1969 1971 1973 1975 1977 1979 1981 1983 1985 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 Ohio Pennsylvania South Carolina (5th) Indiana Georgia Kentucky Ohio Pennsylvania (15th) Virginia Indiana Illinois Ohio Alabama (25th) Kentucky South Carolina Tennessee Pennsylvania Virginia (35th) Indiana Illinois Ohio Alabama Kentucky Georgia South Carolina Pennsylvania Virginia 1968 1970 1972 1974 1976 1978 1980 1982 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA NYFEA Western Texas Kansas California Oklahoma Colorado (10th) Missouri Nebraska Texas Wyoming Oklahoma (20th) Utah Colorado Iowa Missouri Texas (30th) Nebraska Wyoming Oklahoma Utah Colorado Iowa Missouri Texas California Kansas Wyoming Oklahoma . . Membership Benefits NYFEA Prescription Drug and Vision Care Discount Card (PDVCDC) . Success Stories The following are stories that illustrate the success that people are having with the Prescription Drug and Vision Care Discount Card: 1. Indiana Young Farmer Executive Secretary, Lisa Chaudion is saving over $10 month on vitamins that she is required to take during her pregnancy. 2. Kentuckian Peggy Tipton saved over $100 on a pair of eyeglasses. 3. Indiana member Tony Stout saved over $100 on eyeglasses for his daughter. 4. Alabama member Ellen Stone saved $20 by having a child's prescription refilled that was accidentally overturned. 5. Missouri member Kelly Sue Elliott is saving over $10/month on a prescription. 6. A lady in Rusty Tipton's chapter saved over $60 on eyeglasses. 7. Alabama member Mary Patterson is saving over $10/month on a prescription. 8. Ohio Young Farmer Executive Secretary, Valerie Graham is saving on a monthly prescription. A. If you are saving money as a result of NYFEA benefits, please email the national office and let us know. We want to keep a log of the money saved. To E-mail the National Office, click here: natloffice@nyfea.org B. If these savings inspire you to "get a card", do one of two things: a. If you are a member, send in the form with your social security number listed on it. We will respond by sending you the card. b. If you are not a member, send in a copy of the form, attach your $15 dues and make sure your social security number is enclosed. We will respond by sending you a card. C. If you want to know more about the card, got to Prescription Drug and Vision Care Discount Card. How to Sign Up? Request Form: Name_______________ _________ _ _______ Home Phone _____ __ ________ Address _____ __________ ______ Fax _____ _ _____ ________ City/State/Zip ________________ ________ Work Phone ___ _ ____________ Social Security Number ____________________________________Email___________________________Date _____________ _____ Enclosed is my $15.00 contribution for membership and the PD/VCDC. _____ Enclosed is our $1000.00 contribution. Please include us as Members and Mentors Award sponsor. As a sponsor at this level, I know I can get 100 PD/VCDC opportunities for new members to NYFEA. _____Yes, I am interested in participating in the National Advisor/Chapter/Student Group subscription program. Enclosed is my $150 contribution. I know that at this level I can get 15 PD/VCDC opportunities for new members. ----------------------------------------------------------------_____ I am enclosing a check for my membership. _____Please bill my credit card for the above membership.* _____ Please bill my credit card.* Credit Card Number ____________________________ Exp Date __________ Circle: Visa / MasterCard / Discover Signature _________________________________ Please mail your response to: NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 - For further information call 334-288-0097 *I understand that the credit card authorization will allow NYFEA to charge my card each year for the annual payment of $15. I know that I may cancel this annual billing at any time by sending a signed letter to NYFEA requesting the cancellation. . . NYFEA is an association designed to promote the personal and professional development of all people in agriculture. As a member, these are your benefits: Participate in leadership training programs. Keep up with current issues in the newsletter and on the web - nyfea.org. Discount registration to great networking opportunities like the National Ag Leadership Conference (summer) and National Institute (winter). Receive prescription drug, vision care and travel discounts (up to 65% off cost). Participate in the Certified Ag Professional career enhancement program. Support the next generation of farmers with the Members and Mentors Award and community service projects. Agricultural Leaders: If you are interested in impacting agricultural policy, improving your chance of business success and helping others understand agriculture; this is your organization. - If you are not a member, join today! - If you are a member, do two things: a) Use your password and ID to receive the full-benefit of the web page at nyfea.org b) Complete the application to the prescription drug/vision care discount program. Both of these benefits are free to members! We are sure that you will receive more than the value of your membership dues. Sign Up Today! NYFEA, P.O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 - Phone/Fax 334-288-0097 - www.nyfea.org - - - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - -- - - -- - -- - - -- COMPLETE and MAIL TODAY! NYFEA, P. O. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 - Fax 334-288-0097 Name: ________________ email: _______________________________ Address: ______________________ State: _________ City: _______________________________ Zip: ____________________ Phone: __________________ ________ Social Security Number: _____________________ ________ ____ Enclosed is my $15 membership (cash/check) for NYFEA.____ Yes, I want the prescription drug/vision care discount card. ____ Enclosed is my $100 membership (cash/check) for the Ag Leaders Club. ____ Please bill my credit card.* Credit Card Number _______________________________Exp Date _______________________ Circle: Visa / MasterCard / Discover Signature _____________________________________ *I understand that the credit card authorization will allow NYFEA to charge my card each year for the annual payment of $15 for NYFEA or $100 for Ag Leaders Club. I know that I may cancel this annual billing at any time by sending a signed letter to NYFEA requesting the cancellation. . . The NYFEA sponsored Ag Leaders Club (ALC) is proud to provide each of its members with a benefits package that compliments the regular member benefits. NYFEA provides all of its educational program benefits to the regular members and encourages interested individual to pay the $15 dues and enjoy the learning, practicing and applying that is found in the Education for American Agriculture plan. The NYFEA webpage and national meetings are locations where regular members can access the contests, seminars, community service projects and interactive learning programs. Regular members do have a chance to be recognized for their learning through the EAA Degree program and the Certified Agricultural Professional activity. Regular members also receive the Prescription Drug/Vision Care Discount Card as a means of answering the question – What do I get for my $15 dues? However, now the association is pleased to compliment the opportunities that are available to the regular members. Each member of the ALC will be receiving additional benefits. By working with a national benefits provider, the association is offering members the chance to save $100+ on premium travel, dental care, legal care, groceries, etc. It is a tremendous new product that will easily return more than is invested. The cost is $100 per ALC membership. The Discount Programs: Coupon and Discount Book will provide product discounts from national businesses. - Dental Care Discounts - Premium Travel Benefits - Grocery Savings - Legal Club Membership - Much, much more What Are the Other Ways It Benefits the Member? - Membership booklet that describes the benefits of participating. - Community Service Project and mentoring opportunities dealing with ag literacy, the hunger crisis, agriculture in schools, the environment, etc will be provided. Examples of projects include the Wheelbarrow Race for Hunger, Pizza Project, Adopt-a-Class, Ag Exchange, etc. Also, provided is a notebook with a full description of a project, templates for media notification, letters, and lists of resources for producing or hosting a community service project. Call 334-288-0097 for a info. - NYFEA will provide a complete guide to sponsors' services and products. Call 334-288-0097. - Special workshop opportunities at the National Ag Leadership Conference specifically designed for ALC participants will feature in-depth instruction into a particular personal development focus. They will include a collection of leadership seminars and internet training. Special education/leadership conference/tour invitations are available on the webpage at www.nyfea.org. - Contest Opportunities (Spokesperson, Farm Management, Community Service, Photo, Ag Expressions, etc.) are featured. Call 334-288-0097 for info on contests, service projects and webrelated training. - A subscription to the "Leader for Agriculture" report will be included. - Other benefits will be added. To Register for the Ag Leaders Club, send $100 to NYFEA. Use the form on the other page. Box 20326, Montgomery, AL 36120 - phone 334-288-0097 - fax 334-288-0097 email nyfea@mindspring.com