Volunteers the Reason for OFBF’s Successby Jack Fisher Twelve gold stars and the President’s Award! Ohio Farm Bureau has once again been recognized as one of the top Farm Bureaus in the nation. Our page one story tells you about what was done to earn this tremendous honor. But what I think also needs to be focused on is why we’re again ranked among the best of the best.In a word, it’s participation. We’re successful because of the almost unbelievable willingness of thousands of our members to give of their time and talent. In an age when churches, schools and charities are all having a tough time getting volunteers to participate, Farm Bureau is thriving because our members continue to get involved. The time commitment made by Farm Bureau volunteers is immeasurable. When government officials need to hear from the farm community, you respond with calls and letters. If the media has questions, you're there to answer them. When our farm youth need support, or nonfarm kids can be educated, you're available to help. If ecological issues demand attention, or business opportunities arise, you join in. And there's probably no better example of your willingness to pitch in than during our annual membership campaign. For 34 consecutive years, Ohio Farm Bureau has grown in membership, largely because of members who believe in this organization and share those beliefs with friends, neighbors and even strangers. As volunteers, you have another important impact. Your commitment inspires the work of our staff. Yes, they're on the payroll. But Farm Bureau employees, in the field and in Columbus, aren't the kind who put in an eight-hour shift and go home. They share your desire to make a positive difference. And their efforts should be commended. The same is true about our partners at Nationwide. OFBF's ties to Nationwide go far beyond a mutually beneficial business relationship. We're linked by common values. And your commitment to those values is a motivation for Nationwide’s leaders, employees and agents to generously give their support to Farm Bureau. Twelve gold stars and the President’s Award. These awards recognize incredible achievements. To every one of you who attended meetings, helped on committees, participated in advisory councils, recruited a member or simply offered advice, congratulations. You're the individuals who bring excellence, and recognition of it, to Ohio Farm Bureau. | |