Florida Farm Bureau wins top awards

Florida Farm Bureau wins top awards

The arrival of a new year brings with it a mix of memories of the past and pleasant hopes for the future. In our celebration of the occasion we often entertain thoughts about our families, our many blessings and what we have been able to accomplish in 12 fast-paced months.

When I think about accomplishments, I always have Florida Farm Bureau in mind. I have said many times that we have one of the best state Farm Bureaus in the nation. We recently received some terrific additional evidence to support my statement.

In the annual competition of states for prestigious national awards presented by the American Farm Bureau, our organization has once again captured high honors. Florida Farm Bureau earned Awards of Excellence in all five categories of the competition: Education & Outreach, Leadership Development, Member Services, Policy Development & Implementation and Public Relations & Communication.

We also earned our membership quota, plus two percent, for the year. By doing so, we have earned the American Farm Bureau’s Navigator Award for membership growth.

These 2012 awards reflect the commitment and diligent work of our county volunteers, our county employees, our state board of directors and our state staff. Your collective effort has made this achievement possible.

The Awards of Excellence, combined with our membership growth, also made Florida Farm Bureau eligible for the President’s Award – a recognition given to the best program in each category, according to state membership group. Florida Farm Bureau received the President’s Award for Leadership Development and Member Services.

In addition, Florida Farm Bureau has qualified for competition for the Pinnacle Award – the highest level of distinction bestowed upon the most outstanding state in each membership group.

I am extremely proud of what Florida Farm Bureau has been able to do in the past year. Our members and staff have proven that there is virtually no limit to our strength as a grassroots organization when we pursue a collective effort.
I have had the opportunity to observe many of you in action at our state capitol, in Washington, D.C. and in your home communities. I know the powerful level of initiative behind your contributions on behalf of production agriculture and Farm Bureau. I have marveled at your ability to overcome challenges as you reached one notable milestone after another.

I want to thank you for your loyal service. You make Farm Bureau truly effective by creating the dynamic energy behind the Voice of Agriculture.

I wish you a safe, successful new year with much happiness in your homes and hearts.