News : V-S FFA Sees Best Fundraiser Yet!

Juniors Grace Schminke and Josh Wiley helped keep accurate records at check in as FFA members gathered to prepare for the auction.

Freshman Andrew Pingenot watches as he gets higher bids for his time

Sophomore Jerry Lee brought all smiles to the crowd with his funny introduction.

A great crowd showed up to support the chapter at the Volunteer Auction.

By: Isabel Mullinex (Co-Reporter)

On Thursday, April 7th, 32 FFA members and 2 advisors signed up to be auctioned off by Jon Winkelpleck to volunteer within the community. At the Volunteer Auction, FFA members are sold for 8 hours of community service to do various tasks like babysitting, garden work, working livestock, chores, walking beans, fence building, as well as working at food stands at local county fairs and other events.

Sophomore Mac Goodell said, "This was my first time participating in the auction and I was scared at first, but that quickly faded as the auctioneer told jokes to make us laugh. It was fulfilling to be able to help my chapter and serve my community at the same time." This was a great fundraiser for the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA Chapter where a grand total of $22,575 was raised to help pay for State and National Convention expenses.

FFA members, Annabelle Newton, Josh Wiley, Clayton McKenna, and Christopher Fleming are attending the Washington Leadership Conference this fall, and they used this opportunity to help fundraise for their trip. These four individuals were auctioned for a second time, helping them cover their conference expenses at $8,550 This sets the regular auction bringing in $14,025, almost double last year's amount, and an average of 412 per volunteer.

The chapter saw outstanding support not only in the amount raised, but with 39 registered bidders, 21 official buyers, and many other supporters present. Many local businesses sent representatives to support the chapter too! Secretary Clayton McKenna said "Watching the bids and numbers add up, we were astonished to see the great support the community offered for the fundraiser." This event brings community members together and brings light to agricultural experiences and the service that members provide within the community.

The Vinton-Shellsburg FFA chapter hopes to continue this tradition so they can pursue community service among the members.