Idaho FFA Foundation hosts annual statewide golf tournaments

By Dianna Troyer 

For Idaho Farm Bureau Federation 

Planting the seeds of philanthropy, the Idaho FFA Foundation will offer several golf tournaments statewide this summer with businesses, community members, and Farm Bureau members as competitors and sponsors. 

“This year, we’re thankful for Idaho Farm Bureau Federation’s gracious sponsorship at each of our tournaments,” said Carly Weaver, the foundation’s interim executive director. “Several local Farm Bureau groups support Idaho FFA through sponsorship or hosting a golf team to join in on the fun for a day of golf. Other local Farm Bureaus have supported other programs beyond golf, like our state convention and student competitions in the past.”

An enthusiastic supporter, Cole Lickley, a Bingham County Farm Bureau member, said golfing is among the ultimate community activities. 

“It brings people together to raise money for great causes – like FFA – all while allowing time for networking, catching up with old friends, and making new connections,” he said. “These connections make the Idaho ag industry strong, and we need to maintain that strength for the upcoming leaders coming through the FFA program.” 

In 2021, the foundation launched the tournaments “in the spirit of adapting and working in a new environment,” Weaver said. 

Previously, auctions were organized as the foundation’s primary annual fundraisers to support Idaho’s 100 FFA chapters. 

“We brainstormed about a new, fun activity that could bring many people together to celebrate and fundraise for our more than 6,000 Idaho FFA members and their advisors,” Weaver said.

Funds raised during the golf tournaments go toward the foundation’s college scholarship program, student project grants, classroom grants for teachers, and more.  

“The foundation team who puts on the golf tournaments hopes to raise about $10,000 per tournament to put toward high-need programs,” Weaver said. 

The tournaments have varied supporters. 

“Some are ag businesses like Zions Bank, AgWest Farm Credit, Valley Wide Cooperative, and Stotz Equipment and Nutrien,” Weaver said. “While some of our other sponsors like Alliance Title & Escrow, BBSI, Culver’s of Idaho, and varying car dealerships may not specifically be considered an ag business, they strongly and enthusiastically support the leaders currently growing and developing in FFA.”

Along with businesses, many individuals sign up with family or friends to golf.

“Some of these folks may be FFA alumni or simply want to support the Idaho FFA Foundation,” she said. “We welcome any and all who want to join us for a great day on the golf course.” 

Golfing to support FFA

Golf tournaments benefitting FFA are scheduled statewide.

• June 7 – University of Idaho Golf Course, Moscow
• June 16 – Shadow Valley Golf Course, Boise
• June 28 – Pinecrest Golf Course, Idaho Falls

To participate as a golfer or sponsor, register at www.growidahoffa.org/2023-golf-scrambles/