April 11, 2019
Bryan Jones, president of Putnam/St. Johns County Farm Bureau, and David Hafner, vice president of Martin County Farm Bureau, have been appointed to serve on a national advocacy program for young farmers and ranchers.
The two-year Partners in Advocacy Leadership (PAL) Program is sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation and is designed to help today’s agricultural leaders accelerate their engagement abilities and enhance their skills as advocates for agriculture.
“The American Farm Bureau is proud to develop future advocacy rock stars for agriculture,” said Johnna Miller, Director of Media & Advocacy Training. “Our PAL graduates gain confidence and expertise to engage with key stakeholders in their local community and in national media.”
Jones and Hafner were selected by a panel of national judges for their knowledge of agricultural issues, leadership desire and their passion to lead for agriculture’s future.
The PAL program is a rigorous, two-year curriculum that is meant to shape the personal development of participants. It includes core competencies on self-awareness, industry knowledge, message development and delivery, policy engagement and interpersonal skills.
Jones owns and operates Riverdale Potato Farm in St. Johns County. He produces potatoes and green beans. Jones is involved in community service through his food donations to area homeless shelters and equipment donations to local churches.
Hafner, owner of H6 Livestock and Produce in Martin County, is active in his community where he serves as a 4-H leader and is involved in an array of civic activities. He also served on the Florida Farm Bureau’s State Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Group.