In 2001, our Foundation set out to build an uncommitted endowment of $2 million dollars to secure the long-term existence of the Foundation as a support arm for the agricultural education/FFA program in Tennessee. At its organizational meeting on November 10, 2004, the Sponsoring Committee members pledged their commitment to help meet this goal of the FFA Foundation. With the passage of the 2010-2011 state budget, our total grants from the state over the past five years reached that $2 million mark.

Many thanks are owed to those who helped make this possible. First among those who deserve credit is Governor Phil Bredesen. Of course, it is the members of the General Assembly who pass the budget; and we owe them deep gratitude for supporting FFA and 4-H in Tennessee over the years. Many others helped to clear the way:  our Foundation Sponsoring Committee led by Lee Todd was instrumental in taking up this challenge; the Farm Bureau helped us to make our case in the halls of government; and countless supporters and donors lent their support by influencing their senators and representatives. Thanks to all who joined us in reaching this important goal!

Governor Haslam, Commissioner Johnson and the General Assembly are continuing this tradition of support for 4-H and FFA. Another $250,000 has been appropriated to each organization in the 2011-2012 budget.