The Branch County Community Foundation (BCCF) and the Branch County 4-H Foundation are excited to announce that the Branch County Gifts of Grain fund has received its first grain donations.
With gifts of grain, grain or other commodity crops are gifted to benefit both BCCF and the 4-H Foundation. Gifting grain is a common concept, especially in rural areas enriched with agriculture. BCCF knew there was a chance to create this opportunity for local farmers to donate grain or other commodity crops, but partnering with another organization to make this giving program successful was key. Branch County Gifts of Grain is a community partnership between the Branch County Community Foundation (BCCF) and the Branch County 4-H Foundation.
The first grain donation was made in February 2022 by Austin Hostetler. Austin was involved in 4-H from the time he was 10 until he was 18 and received a scholarship to further his education. Austin knew that the Gifts of Grain program would be an easy way to give back to the community and an organization that made an impact on his life.
“When I heard I could make a donation to the 4-H Foundation and the Community Foundation by giving grain, I knew it would be a good way to give back to both organizations that do great work in the county I grew up in,” said Austin. “I hope that my donation will help give kids the same opportunities I had while I was in 4-H.”
In March of 2022, BCCF and the Branch County 4-H Foundation held an event for local farmers to come and learn more about the Gifts of Grain program. Shortly after the event, the fund received its second donation from Oak Prairie Farms.
“It was our pleasure to make a donation to the Gifts of Grain Fund,” said Ron Hostetler. “We enjoy supporting the youth involved in 4-H. 4-H provides the opportunity to gain leadership experience, work ethic, and responsibility which are great building blocks for the future. Along with 4-H, we know the importance of the Branch County Community Foundation. We appreciate all of the work they do for our county and the Colon community. Gifts of Grain was a great way to support both organizations to better our communities.”
Supporting both BCCF and the Branch County 4-H Foundation helps increase the positive impact in our community. The funding is divided equally between BCCF and the Branch County 4-H Foundation. The support for BCCF allows increased flexible spending to meet emerging needs and make investments in our community. Simultaneously, it allows the Branch County 4-H Foundation to offer increased enrichment and leadership opportunities for the youth in our area. If you are interested in learning more about the Gifts of Grain program or how you can donate grain, visit www.BrCoFoundation.org/gifts-of-grain.