Golfers Play the Greens: Raise Funds for the Blue and Gold

The California almond community returned to the greens this year for the annual Almond Leadership Program (ALP) golf tournament fundraiser. The tournament attracted 144 growers, handlers, and almond industry leaders from throughout the Central Valley, to golf and raise funds for the California FFA (Future Farmers of America) Foundation.

After taking a year-long hiatus due to the pandemic, golfers enthusiastically hit the fairway at Madera’s Dragonfly Golf Club. “It was great to get together with people again after not having the tournament last year,” said former ALP golf tournament organizer, Chandler Wilson. “I was able to connect with others in the industry, including some of our customers. It was a perfect day for some golf.”

This year, through the participation of 36 teams and 22 sponsors, the tournament raised more than $15,000 for the FFA. These funds will be used by the California FFA Foundation to support scholarships for FFA members pursuing careers in the agriculture industry. Current ALP participant, Jason DeGraff, says the almond community remains committed in its support of the FFA Foundation. “FFA is a worthy cause—these students are not only the future of agriculture, but will play an important role in their communities. Being able to help fund their future and see them succeed in life is a gift and a blessing.”

The current ALP class is hoping to raise additional funds for the FFA by hosting a silent auction at the 2021 Almond Conference Gala. The almond community is invited to show their support for the FFA by donating items or bidding on items at the auction. Every dollar raised by the silent auction, up to $25,000, will be matched by Almond Conference Emerald sponsor, Qcify! Here is a link to the donation form to submit an item. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Ann Friedrich at afriedrich@almondboard.com or 209.343.3241.