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The American Farm Bureau Federation County Activities of Excellence awards celebrate unique, local, volunteer-driven programs that serve as models of innovation for local program development. The winning counties, including 14 from Ohio, receive a stipend to fund their participation in the American Farm Bureau CAE Showcase at the 2023 American Farm Bureau Annual Convention & Trade Show happening Jan. 6-11, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. AFBF received more than 143 entries across all membership categories, with only 24 activities nationwide being selected to present at the convention.

“Once again, Ohio has more CAE winners than any other state,” said Melinda Witten, Ohio Farm Bureau senior director, leadership development. “We are thrilled to see 14 counties recognized by the American Farm Bureau, and we are proud of what each county Farm Bureau across the state does to not only be an integral part of their community, but make it even stronger through these programs”.

A Therapy Benefit for Farmers

Clinton County Farm Bureau realized it’s been a rough couple of years between overreaching regulations, severe weather during planting/harvesting season, unsteady markets and pandemic pressures. The county also recognized that the most important asset of the farm, business and home is the person operating it. Clinton County Farm Bureau partnered with BetterHelp – the world’s largest therapy provider – in extending an additional layer of support to members and their loved ones by providing access to professional counseling anytime and anywhere. Through this new benefit, members were able to receive one free month of counseling to use in 2022. If more counseling is needed, members receive 15% off monthly BetterHelp sessions.

Representing Clinton County at the American Farm Bureau annual convention and trade show will be Organization Director Ashley Rose, President Christine Shanholtz, Larry Shanholtz, Craig Cook and Belinda Cook. While on this trip they will get to discuss and explain how this program has better helped their community. They also look forward to hearing and learning about other national winning programs.