Farmers Helping Farmers has announced the establishment of three awards to recognize the contributions of its volunteers, supporters and members. Sandra MacKinnon, Awards Committee chair, says that the success of any organization is dependent upon the commitment of its volunteers and others.
“We are extremely fortunate to have individuals and groups working in partnership, and raising funds to assist with the challenges faced by many East African farm women and their families,” said MacKinnon.
To recognize the outstanding contribution of Islanders, the organization has established three awards which will be presented at its annual meeting this summer.
The Friend of Farmers Helping Farmers Award recognizes individuals and businesses who are not members of Farmers Helping Farmers, but who have made a lasting and extending contribution to the association. Contributions may be in the form of financial or in-kind support.
The Farmers Helping Farmers Youth Award recognizes individuals 25 years and younger and youth groups (classrooms, 4-H, AY, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, etc.) who have made outstanding contributions to public awareness about Farmers Helping Farmers and its work in Kenya. The successful nominee(s) will be recognized for their extraordinary spirit that makes their contribution an inspiration to others, and exemplifies citizenship and volunteerism.
An Honourary Life Membership recognizes members who have made an outstanding and substantial contribution to the organization and its purpose. They have inspired and encouraged others to be engaged, and have served as an example within the organization. In 2008, this award will be presented to the active founding members of the 27 year old organization.
Farmers Helping Farmers is an Island-based, award-winning organization of community-minded people with agricultural backgrounds. Its goal is to assist Kenyan farmers in becoming more self-reliant in agricultural food production. The group assists with the development of small-scale, practical agricultural projects, focusing on direct, person-to-person interaction.
Nomination forms are available on the organization’s website at www.farmershelpingfarmers.ca or by phoning 629-1759. The deadline for applications is April 30.