Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Group Information

Overview and Objectives

The Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Leadership Group is a two-year program designed to equip members to serve as strong leaders within Farm Bureau. Participants are exposed to Florida’s farmers and ranchers, agricultural policy issues and process, and Farm Bureau opportunities at the local, state, and national levels.

Throughout the program, members will engage in advocacy, Farm Bureau activities, relationship-building and networking. They will also receive training in media, communication and public speaking, along with other personal and professional development opportunities offered during seminars.

The program consists of thirteen seminars spanning approximately 45 days.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be classified as an active member as defined in Article 5, Section 2 of the Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF) Bylaws.
• Be a member of FFBF in good standing for at least one year prior to the application deadline.
• Be between 18 and 35 years of age as of November 1 of the year their class begins.
• Not be a salaried employee of FFBF, a County Farm Bureau or any of its affiliates.
• Spouses may apply to the same class, either individually or as a couple.
• Demonstrate strong character, reputation and personal conduct indicative of future leadership potential (as shown through references).
• While there are no specific academic requirements, applicants must show the ability to make meaningful contributions to seminar sessions and complete outside assignments throughout the two-year program.

Required Application Materials

A complete application must include:

• Two references: One from a current or past board member of the applicant’s County Farm Bureau and the second from a non-family member.
• Employer Authorization Form or Self-Employed Form
• Approval from the applicant’s County Farm Bureau President

Expectations

Participating in this class is a significant commitment. Attendance and promptness is required. Members who miss two seminars will be dismissed with no refund. If an emergency arises, members must notify the class coordinator as soon as possible.

Participants are expected to act with integrity and responsibility, representing themselves, their peers and our organization well. This includes fully engaging in seminars and class activities.