We're the "Fun Side" of Farm Bureau

I found myself saying that over and over during the Barry County Farm Bureau Ice Cream Social at the Barry County Fair. The event is completely free and open to everyone. You don't have to be a Farm Bureau member. You don't have to be a farmer.

You just have to like ice cream.

So we handed out free ice cream, had conversations with people from our community, and happened to be next to the sheep show. (That part was just a happy coincidence.) Those conversations reminded me of something.

When most people hear "Farm Bureau," they immediately think of insurance. And that's okay. Insurance is an important part of Farm Bureau. But it's only one part.

So what do I mean when I say we're the "fun side" of Farm Bureau? For me, it's the people.

It's advocating for agriculture by talking with legislators about the issues farmers are facing today.

It's helping develop policy. Every year, delegates from across Michigan come together to debate and vote on policies that guide our state organization. Those discussions cover agriculture, but they also touch many other issues that affect our communities.

It's education.

This is the part that feels most like home to me. I've served as my county's Promotion & Education Chair for nearly a decade, and I love helping people better understand agriculture. While many of our programs are designed for youth, agricultural education has value for everyone.

And it's networking.

The Young Farmer program gives members ages 18–35 the opportunity to connect with others who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of agriculture. Some are just getting started, while others have years of experience. We learn from each other, encourage one another, and build friendships that extend far beyond conferences.

And when you're no longer a "Young Farmer?"

Don't worry. Farm Bureau still has plenty of opportunities to stay involved. Growing older isn't so bad when you get to keep learning alongside people who share your passion.

So yes, I'm part of what I jokingly call the "fun side" of Farm Bureau. Because for me, Farm Bureau isn't just about insurance.

It's about people coming together to advocate, educate, lead, and strengthen agriculture for the next generation.