BLOOMINGTON – The Illinois 4-H Foundation was one of 14 groups benefiting from funds donated by 1st Farm Credit Services Donor Advised Fund through the IAA Foundation for 2014. 

Since 1954, the Illinois 4-H Foundation has raised funds from individuals, corporations and organizations to supplement state and county 4-H programs. In 2013, the Foundation awarded more than $200,000 to assist Illinois 4-H members, clubs, and programs.

 “Our office works with all of our donors to maximize the impact their support makes on 4-H members,” Executive Director Angie Barnard said. “These funds will specifically enhance the agricultural educational and leadership programs for 4-H members in Illinois.”

In total, 1st Farm Credit distributed $118,500 Monday to the ag-related groups. The 1st Farm Credit Services Donor Advised Fund through the IAA Foundation was created in 2010 to help promote and fund programs dedicated to agriculture education, youth and leadership. The association has provided $1.25 million to the fund.  This is the fourth year for distributions from the fund, and to date, $380,000 has been distributed.

“Working with groups that serve farmers, children and consumers who are growing and nurturing future leaders fits in our mission,” said Roger Schrodt, 1st Farm Credit Services Board of Directors vice chairman. “Farmers have a passion for planning for the future, planting and caring for plants and animals, tending them and helping them to grow. I commend all of these groups for their excellent work.”

“Reflecting on the work accomplished by these organizations in the past year only further reinforces our funding decisions for 2014,” said Susan Moore, IAA Foundation Director. “Administering this fund on behalf of 1st Farm Credit truly brings together so much positive work in agriculture, and we are glad to be a part of this movement.”