Applications for Ohio Farm Bureau Health Plans now available
Members have three ways to apply: contacting a certified agent, calling 833-468-4280 or visiting ohiofarmbureauhealthplans.org.
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Mike Townsley, president of the Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation, grew up on a farm, so it is no surprise that his career led him back to one as CEO and president of Bob Evans Farms, Inc., where he now serves as chairman. Townsley has dedicated his life to food and agriculture, starting in the meat industry. As president and CEO of Bob Evans Farms, Townsley led the company’s incredible growth in the refrigerated sides business. He believes in putting the right people in the right positions and empowering them to execute the vision that has been set for the organization.
Q: Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation continues to grow. What are you most excited about as the philanthropic organization really starts to come into its own?
One of my biggest priorities for our board this year is to increase our visibility by sharing our story — who we are, what we do and why our work is so vitally important to the future of Ohio agriculture. By sharing these stories, we will continue to grow our fundraising efforts and the impact we’re able to have in our communities, our region and throughout the state.
Q: You are president of the foundation board. Tell us a little about the make-up of the board and what’s in store for the year ahead.
The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation’s 16-member board is one of the most energetic and diverse boards that I have had the pleasure of serving on and leading. We have representation from the Ohio Farm Bureau trustees, our Young Agricultural Professionals group (YAP), county Farm Bureaus, and a dynamic group representing some of the most successful Ohio-based businesses such as Nationwide, COSI, The Kroger Co. and Bob Evans Foods, just to name a few.
In 2021, the board will be focused on developing a strategic campaign plan that will propel us into 2022 and beyond. We want to establish set priorities and goals for the next three to five years that will enable us to grow our scholarship funds, increase our grant opportunities and support our innovative programming like ExploreAg.
Q: What would you tell anyone who is contemplating becoming a donor or active volunteer of the foundation?
I would say ‘join us!’ The Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation is a great way for individuals, families and businesses to support Ohio agriculture. We envision a future where tomorrow’s greatest leaders are passionate about and drawn to careers in agriculture, but we need incredible support to make it happen. Whether you choose to make a gift, participate in our annual Golf Invitational or volunteer your time with us, your partnership will result in a harvest of new leaders and innovation for tomorrow.
Finally, I would encourage those who are interested in learning more about the foundation or who are interested in making a gift to please visit the foundation website or contact our executive director, Kelly Burns, at [email protected] or 614-246-8275.
To grow a network and gain perspective and knowledge in the industry through personal and professional development has been invaluable. Every day I learn and grow.
The issue of property taxation remains as one of the biggest challenges our members face today. Ensuring agricultural property is valued for its agricultural potential and not development is critical to the continued success of Ohio agriculture.
Farm Bureau is what really got the word out. It’s been one of their goals to get this done.
I could not have done it without the resources I have found through Farm Bureau.
Because we are younger farmers just starting out, Farm Bureau has a lot of good opportunities and resources to help us grow in the future.
Through the Select Partner program, we became educated in farm insurance and weren't just selling policies. It became more and more clear why farmers need an advocate like Ohio Farm Bureau.
Featured Articles
Ohio Farm Bureau encouraged by results of OACI’s Auglaize River Watershed Assessment Report
The report provides insight into measurable progress in conservation practices and Ohio farmers’ continued commitment to water quality.
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Transitioning the farm: equitable vs. equal?
Conflict among family members and possible heirs threatens the farm’s survival. Possible solutions depend on the dynamics of your farm and your financial situation.
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Ohio Farm Bureau welcomes bipartisan data center study committee creation
The committee will examine the rapid growth of data centers across the state and identifying potential legislative solutions before they recess.
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OFBF applauds House passage of year-round E15
Ohio Farm Bureau applauds the passage of H.R. 1346, allowing the year-round sale of E15, also known as Unleaded 88 fuel.
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Ohio Farm Bureau Property Tax Webinar Series Recording
Ohio Farm Bureau members may watch recordings of each webinar in the organization’s property tax webinar series. Discussion includes policy update, school funding, and Current Agricultural Use Value.
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Farming and mental health
Ohio needs its farmers — and supporting their mental health is essential to sustaining both the industry and the people who make it thrive.
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Applications open for 2026 Growing Tomorrow Grant
The grant helps create opportunities for early-stage agricultural businesses to move forward by addressing financial and startup hurdles. Apply by July 31.
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Ohio Farm Bureau partners with Life Line Screening to expand access to preventive health screenings
This new partnership provides members access to preventive cardiovascular and stroke risk screenings at a member-preferred rate.
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Action Alert: Help get year-round E15 across the finish line
Congress is considering standalone legislation to allow the permanent, year-round sale of E15. Members can use the action center to contact their member of Congress.
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