ST. LOUIS – Farmers now have the opportunity to contribute $3.3 million to organizations in their
communities. To honor and support the tradition of service organizations in rural America, the America’s
Farmers Grow Communities program is partnering with farmers to direct $2,500 donations to individual
nonprofit organizations. After a successful pilot program in 2010, including Ohio, the program kicked
off its fifth full year on August 1. In 2013, the company offered an extra donation due to the severe
drought. The program now benefits 1,324 counties across 40 states.
Wood County farmers who were allowed to present donations to their favorite charity have collected
contributed $15,000 to date.
Those selected, with their nonprofit of choice are:
2010 – Sherry Euler, Bowling Green: Chosen Organization – Otsego School District for curriculum and
professional development
2011 – Jeff Dierksheide, Pemberville: Chosen Organization – Eastwood FFA
2012 – David Housholder, Portage: Chosen Organization – Central Joint Fire District
2013 – R&R Buchman Farms, LLC, Pemberville: Chosen Organization – American Legions Post 183 Calf
Club, Drought organization – Eastwood FFA
2014 – Mary Dierksheide, Pemberville: Chosen Organization – Elmwood High School FFA
Organizations that received funding in the past include fire departments, food pantries, community
groups, and youth service programs like FFA and 4-H. In the smaller, rural communities where this
program operates, a donation like this can make the difference in dozens of lives. The results include
better-equipped volunteer fire departments, food pantries stocked with more fresh produce, improved
meeting halls and fair grounds, and opportunities for youth leadership development.
Since its inception in 2010, Grow Communities has invested more than $16 million in 6,000 nonprofit
organizations across rural America. In Ohio alone, Grow Communities has provided $937,500 to nonprofit
organizations over the past five years.
America’s Farmers Grow Communities is part of the America’s Farmers initiative. These programs, supported
by the Monsanto Fund, have awarded over $23 million to rural communities since 2010. Connect with
America’s Farmers on Facebook or @AmericasFarmers on Twitter. Join the #GrowCommunities conversation
today.
To enroll or learn more, visit www.AmericasFarmers.com or call toll-free 877-267-3332.