Darren and Kendall Riskedal, District 1 WFBF YFA Committee member – Farm Bureau members since 2016 in Wisconsin; Illinois since 2010
Why do you value your Farm Bureau membership?
Moving to a new state with no previous experience, building friendships was difficult. After being involved in Farm Bureau in college, we knew it was an organization we could get involved in to meet and make friends quickly. Finding community with others passionate about agriculture has been the most valuable element of our Farm Bureau membership. We’ve also greatly enjoyed the opportunities to further enjoy our involvement in the organization. Learning about different types of agricultural facets, visiting different states and people, and the opportunity to compete in various competitions. These opportunities have allowed us to expand our leadership skillsets beyond our youth in 4-H and FFA. We also take full advantage of the member programs and rebates that Farm Bureau offers, especially for vacations.
What has been your favorite Farm Bureau program/event/etc?
Our favorite event in Wisconsin was our first YFA Conference where we began to learn more about the state’s agriculture and network with others across the state. We enjoy the annual regroup with friends at the event.
What would you tell YFA members about getting involved in the YFA program?
We would advise YFA members to make their Farm Bureau experience whatever they would like it to be by making suggestions to the leadership or becoming involved themselves. Like anything in life, you get out what you put in, and involvement in Farm Bureau is no different. There are so many opportunities to learn, get involved in your local, state or national ag community, and build your leadership skills. Being a grassroots organization allows individuals the opportunity to mold things how they’d like. If you’re passionate about policy, there are lots of chances to get involved there. Community service benefiting the local community? Opportunity. Want to travel and learn about ag in another state? Opportunity. Farm Bureau isn’t one-size-fits-all, so if something doesn’t exist today that you’re interested in, build it!
Best words of advice/words of wisdom?
Say yes. Yes to opportunities, meeting new people and getting outside of your comfort zone. Then find a way to make it happen.
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