The Dike- New Hartford and Gladbrook-Reinbeck schools developed a shared vocational agricultural and FFA program in 2019 and named their chapter T-55 FFA. Community members from both school districts formed an FFA Alumni and Supporters chapter, Friends of T-55 FFA. The Friends of T-55 FFA have supported the student members of T-55 FFA by: coaching and judging contest teams, hosting a national FFA convention meal, sponsoring member jackets and safety vests, hosting meals at chapter meetings, and offering student members scholarships to prepare for their future careers. Since formation, 70 community members and businesses have joined the Friends of T-55 FFA chapter.

During National FFA week, February 20 – 27th, the Friends of T-55 FFA would like to recognize these partners who have provide financial support throughout the year:

Gold Honor ($1,000): Fogt Farms, Kevin & Debra Hemmen, Dennis Kruger , Peterson Contractors, Inc.; Blue Pride ($500): Eric &Darla Andersen, Dudden Farms, Peoples Savings Bank, Karl Strohbehn Farms; Greenhand ($250): Diamond 7 Agronomy Services, Farm Bureau & Associates, Great Western Bank, Green Belt Bank & Trust, Heartland Coop, Hometown Family Market, Jerry and LuAnn Jones, Konken Electric, Inc., Larry’s Welding, Lincoln Savings Bank, Mid-Iowa Cooperative, Mussig Piano Works, New Century FS, Reinecke Construction, Richter Stock Farm, Schildroth Farms, Spahn & Rose, Gary & Peg Stanley.

Friends of T-55 FFA hold monthly business meetings the second Monday of each month. If you are interested in becoming an individual or business member and supporting the T-55 FFA student members, please contact Gerald Kinney at 319-989-2781 or Chris Fleshner (319) 414-5212 for additional information.