1st FCS gives $1 million to Illinois ag programs
“The IAA Foundation is thrilled to help 1st Farm Credit support our state’s agricultural strength through this significant gift,” said Susan Moore, IAA Foundation director.
Compiled by staff
Published: Dec 30, 2010
1st Farm Credit Services (FCS) has donated a $1 million gift to the IAA Foundation for Illinois agriculture education, youth, and leadership programs.
John Baylor, a Cuba farmer who chairs the 1st FCS board, and Gary Ash, 1st FCS chief executive officer, presented the gift to Illinois Farm Bureau President Philip Nelson, who chairs the IAA Foundation Board of Trustees, during IFB's December board meeting.
The Normal-based 1st FCS will work through a donor-advised fund with the IAA Foundation. The cooperative serves 42 counties in the northern half of Illinois.
First FCS’ commitment will ensure programs, which are dedicated to ag education, youth, and leadership, will continue to receive donations for several years.
“This is a way for us to make a long-term commitment to the future of Illinois agriculture and industry leaders,” Ash said. “We have a vital interest in supporting, sustaining, and growing the agriculture industry now and in the future.”
Potential benefactors include such programs as Illinois 4-H, Illinois FFA, Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom, Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation, and higher education institutions with agriculture programs such as the University of Illinois, Illinois State University, and Western Illinois University.
“This fund allows for our commitment to stay strong for years to come, and not be impacted by the volatility of the marketplace,” Baylor said.
“We will be able to donate more dollars through this fund, and benefit farmers, their families and the future of the industry in Illinois,” Baylor added.
“The IAA Foundation is thrilled to help 1st Farm Credit support our state’s agricultural strength through this significant gift,” said Susan Moore, IAA Foundation director.
1st FCS was able to establish the fund after several years of record earnings that were possible by the thriving agriculture economy.
Currently, 1st FCS provides donations to many of the groups that will benefit from this fund. The association will continue other forms of giving, such as corporate donations to other agriculture industry groups and through scholarship programs.
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