FFA Acquaintance Day brought more than 180 sophomores from nine local high schools to the McLean County Fairgrounds. The FFA members explored agricultural careers, gained team working experience and learned about McLean County Farm Bureau and affiliated companies. University of Illinois Extension staff from 4-H Memorial Camp and the local Extension unit office facilitated team building activities. Ag professionals showcased a range of career opportunities in agriculture, including staff from Illinois Farm Bureau, COUNTRY Financial,

McLean County Farm Bureau is investing nearly $20,000 in local agricultural education efforts through the FFA Capital Grant program to help grow capacity for hands-on learning. Ridgeview FFA and Olympia FFA received grant funding in 2025, $4,978 and $15,000, respectively. “We’re happy to help our local high school agricultural education programs upgrade their equipment and facilities,” says Brian Dirks, McLean County Farm Bureau President. “The goal of the McLean County Farm Bureau FFA Capital Grant

Eleven Illinois Farm Bureau leaders recently met with members of Illinois’ congressional delegation at their Capitol Hill offices to share their story and advocate on top issues such as trade, farm income and the farm bill.  Among them, Michael Rhoda, Chenoa, representing McLean County Farm Bureau, attended IFB’s Leaders to Washington trip Sept. 9-10 in Washington, D.C. During the trip, he spoke with FSA Administrator Bill Beam & U.S. Rep. Sorensen to share first-hand accounts

McLean County Farm Bureau toured Calumet City’s key facilities and projects on the horizon during a recent visit with State Representative Thaddeus Jones. The day began with a tour of Calumet City’s Library and Police Station, where local partners shared their ongoing efforts to provide community resources. The group also visited South Suburban College’s CHARM Center, a recycling facility, which is preparing to expand and even recycle spoiled dairy products. In addition, Rep. Jones invited