Grants Available for Ag Youth Community Service Projects

October 24, 2012

The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) reminds Missouri 4-H and FFA chapters to submit their proposals for the annual Building Our American Communities (BOAC) Grant Program to fund their community service projects.

Projects may include improvements to existing facilities, grounds or buildings used by local organizations in the applicant’s community. Past BOAC grant projects have included improvements for local fairgrounds, rural intersections and parks, as well as renovations for damaged and aged public use structures in rural communities, including those used by local 4-H and FFA groups.

“The Building Our American Communities program is a great tool for our youth organizations as they plan their community service efforts and work to make a difference in their rural areas,” said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. “It is outstanding to see the creativity and dedication of our young people each year as they continue to look for new ways to get involved in the betterment of their hometowns.”

BOAC grants to Missouri 4-H clubs and FFA chapters of up to $500 are available to support projects that benefit an agricultural community and/or promote community development. Up to 12 $500 4-H BOAC grants and 12 $500 FFA BOAC grants are awarded annually, two in each of the six districts.

Last year, a total of 19 grants were awarded to 4-H clubs in Howell, Oregon, Wright, Andrew, Livingston and Linn counties, and to FFA chapters in Oregon, Scott, Vernon, Morgan, Lincoln and Linn counties.

For a grant application or more information about this program and other opportunities from the Missouri Department of Agriculture, visit the Department online at mda.mo.gov.

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