Heather Erdman, District 4 WFBF YFA Committee Representative – Farm Bureau member since 2019
Why do you value your Farm Bureau membership?
I value my Farm Bureau membership because it has brought me so many new experiences and friendships. Farm Bureau has become part of my family. It’s easy to be a member of an organization that advocates for farmers and agriculturists. Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization and is the voice for all of us at the local, state and national levels. When you are farming, it is easier to want to leave the farm if it is for something productive. Knowing that we are making a difference while attending Farm Bureau events and meetings makes it easier to step away from home.
What has been your favorite Farm Bureau program/event/etc and why?
My favorite Farm Bureau program thus far has been the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Leadership Institute. Leadership Institute was my first state level involvement. Even just applying for the Institute was out of my comfort zone. During this leadership program I learned a lot about personal growth. We covered several different training topics which we used during our end-of-class trip to Washington, D.C., where we met with legislators. I gained knowledge and skills to use at the county Farm Bureau level and am grateful for the opportunities that the Leadership Institute has given me. The friendships that I made through this experience are ones that I will have forever.
What would you tell YFA members about getting involved in the YFA program?
Take the time! No ‘farm’, no problem. The Young Farmer and Agriculturists program is not only for farmers. It is for everyone and anyone who is passionate about agriculture and under 35. We all have busy schedules and there always needs to be more time in the day, but taking the time to invest in an organization that has our best interests in mind is easy. It is crucial for young farmers and agriculturists to get involved. We are passionate and ambitious about agriculture. If we aren’t getting involved and telling our stories, somebody else will. The YFA program offers so many opportunities for personal growth, advocacy, training, networking, etc. Don’t let this opportunity pass by!
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