GALT, California — Known world-wide as a global day of generosity, for FFA alumni, friends and supporters, Giving Tuesday has become synonymous with Blue Diamond Growers and giving the Gift of Blue. On Tuesday, November 29, the California FFA Foundation and Blue Diamond Growers will once again work together with donors to provide FFA jackets for California members. For every $85 donated, a FFA member will receive an FFA jacket and a tie or scarf. Blue Diamond Growers will match every donation received up to $25,000.
“This is our sixth Giving Tuesday, raising funds to give the Gift of Blue. Working with Blue Diamond Growers, the world’s leading almond brand, we’ve raised more than $314,000 and provided 4,126 jackets to FFA members throughout California,” shared Emily Rooney, President, Agricultural Council of California and California FFA Foundation Chair. “It’s rewarding to see our alumni and industry come together to make a difference for the next generation of the agriculture industry.”
Since 2017, the California FFA Foundation and Blue Diamond Growers have celebrated Giving Tuesday by raising funds for jackets for California FFA members. The iconic blue corduroy jacket is part of the official FFA uniform, but is also a symbol of leadership, involvement and 94 years of tradition. This year California FFA membership is set to exceed 100,000 youth members, further magnifying the need for support.
“Ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture is a priority for Blue Diamond Growers and we are proud of the impact our partnership with FFA has been able to make over the years, said Dan Cummings, Board Chairman for Blue Diamond Growers. “FFA is a world-class organization and by encouraging greater participation in Giving Tuesday, we are investing in the next generation of ag leaders and a bright, reliable future for California agriculture.”
In addition to Giving Tuesday, Blue Diamond Growers has been a longstanding partner to FFA and agricultural education, serving as a sponsor of various proficiencies and awards. Blue Diamond Growers represent 112 years of agricultural history in Northern California, with approximately 3,000 family growers helping to produce 80 percent of the world’s almonds.
To learn more about the California FFA Foundation’s Giving Tuesday efforts or to make a donation, visit www.calaged.org/givingtuesday.
–California FFA Foundation