Wisconsin Farm Bureau wouldn’t be what it is without our most important asset: our members.
As a member you provide policy directives that guide us legislatively, feedback on our programming and events that drive our next version and direction in how we support the next generation of Wisconsin farmers and agriculturists.
Everything we do is guided by you, our members. As the state’s largest general agricultural organization, it takes a lot to keep our more than 48,000 members engaged, informed and involved.
This is why we are more than a little excited about a new system we will be implementing in just a few short months. Our membership database has served its purpose but has not been efficient for quite some time. This has been a large undertaking. The process of finding a vendor, surveying needs and collecting feedback has taken some time but we are finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
Something as mundane as a membership database might seem like a fairly small change but for WFBF and helping us serve our members, it will be a huge asset. We should be embracing this new system by early June.
You might be wondering why I am sharing this news with you. While a large project for us, your part is fairly small, but very important.
With this new system, or with any system, we can only be as good as our data. So as a member it will be important for you to take the time to verify your information and make sure your profile is complete, including your communication preferences and interests. I promise it won’t be too hard to complete as most of the information we need from our members are the basics: name, phone numbers, address, spouse’s name, etc. The more information you provide, the more it will allow us to serve you to the best of our ability.
I should also note that with all changes there will be some learning curves. This might mean that we have certain time allotments needed for some updates, or tasks might take longer than normal because we have to work through some questions within the new system. While we might encounter some obstacles, in the long term, our ability to serve you will ultimately get better.
Exciting things lie ahead, and I appreciate you taking the time when asked to provide your part.
I know that many of us are anxious to get into the fields and get the season going. However, I hope you consider Farm Bureau membership as you dive in.
This is of value to you because it ultimately builds the Farm Bureau family and your network. By bringing in new members and ideas, we will grow even stronger.
Think about your Farm Bureau story and how you can engage and create that story for someone else. You also can’t forget about the county Farm Bureau incentives if you reach your membership goals.
The time and talent you put into Farm Bureau is impressive. Thank you for the effort you give and please know we appreciate your help in making this organization what it is.
Olson was elected President of Wisconsin Farm Bureau in 2023. He is a crop farmer near Frederic in Polk County. This article originally appeared in the April | May 2024 Rural Route.
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