On a recent Saturday in October, families and youth across North Central Florida attended the Faith & Family Ag Festival in Union County for a fun day outdoors, learning about the land, life lessons, and love of industry and common faith.
The event was hosted by Promised Land Family Ministries (PLFM), a local nonprofit that seeks “to strengthen youth and families through Christ-centered experiences in an agricultural and outdoor setting, creating abundant living that transforms individuals and communities,” according to its mission statement.
Different interactive and educational stations spanned the 54-acre property to educate participants in various sectors of agriculture. Local farmers, UF/IFAS Extension, state agencies, and volunteers devoted five hours to demonstrations that blended agriculture, natural resource stewardship, family-friendly learning, and Christian teachings.
The nonprofit sprung to life in recent years under the vision and care of John and Rebecca Hall, a local couple active in the agriculture industry, as well as with the support and guidance of a volunteer board of directors.
“This ministry has been on my heart for nearly 25 years,” confessed John, who is a former agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. “It is humbling to see an idea become a reality with amazing community support and love.”
The Florida Farm Bureau Women’s Committee saw value in the effort and gave $2,500 in support of the cause at the Harvester sponsorship level. Not only was Farm Bureau support provided in sponsorship, but also in volunteer hours. Many county Farm Bureau leaders have devoted time in preparing and rehabilitating the property, whether by mowing, clearing land and debris, or donating resources to keep PLFM progressing toward new heights.
For more information on PLFM events or ways in which you can help in its mission, feel free to reach out using this link. View highlights from the event here.
