Indiana is taking a unique approach to support agricultural education this holiday season. The Indiana Farm Bureau (INFB) has introduced a special recognition license plate, not just as a symbol of pride for the state's agricultural heritage but also as a means to fund youth education in agriculture.
Back in 2019, coinciding with its 100th anniversary, INFB launched this initiative. The idea was simple yet impactful: each license plate sold contributes directly to the Farm Bureau Foundation, a pivotal entity fostering agricultural education among Indiana's youth.
The cost of the plate is $40, with $25 of each sale going directly to the Foundation, and the remaining $15 covering administrative fees. This initiative has been a success, generating over $41,000 to date.
INFB President Randy Kron emphasizes the importance of agricultural education. "Understanding where our food comes from and the vital role farmers play in our daily lives is essential for the youth," he states. This initiative gives them an opportunity to learn and appreciate these aspects.
Maintaining the visibility of these plates is crucial. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles requires a minimum of 500 plates on the road to keep the program active.
Debra DeCourcy, APR, INFB's executive director of marketing, highlights the dual benefit of the plates: they support a noble cause and increase brand awareness for the organization.
For INFB members and other agriculture supporters, displaying these plates is a matter of pride. As they travel across the state and beyond, they carry the message of Indiana's rich farming heritage.
The initiative, therefore, serves a dual purpose: educating the youth and promoting agricultural awareness.
Hoosiers are encouraged to participate in this initiative, ensuring that Indiana's farming legacy continues to thrive and that future generations remain informed and appreciative of the agricultural sector that plays such a crucial role in their daily lives.