Delivering a Slice of Joy

Written by Gabriella Coons

Founded in 1928 and backed by generations of farmers, the Future Farmers of America (FFA) is much more than a traditional agriculture program. While it honors its deep roots, the FFA focuses on empowering students with the confidence to speak publicly, pride in their craftsmanship, and the skills to manage the diverse business side of modern industry. Beyond the farm, members learn to lead enterprises, plan strategically for the future, and pave a clear, ambitious path for their careers. 

Taconic Hills FFA was founded in 2014, with 7 officer positions; Historian, Sentinel, Reporter,Treasurer, Secretary, Vice President and President. All positions are supervised by an Advisor. Through the years Taconic Hills has attended many different competitions and diverse activities. Because FFA is supported solely by our local farmers and community, it's important to give back.

Each year, our Taconic Hills FFA Chapter Vice President is responsible for planning and executing a community service project. This year, Vice President Elio Agustin organized a heartfelt initiative to donate birthday cake kits to our local food pantry. During the week of March 23-27, both the elementary and high school sides of Taconic Hills contributed items including birthday cards, candles, cake mix, frosting, pans, forks, plates, napkins, and soda. Each cake kit contained one of each item. The Copake Grange also generously donated 40 cake mixes and additional frosting. Members of the Taconic Hills FFA volunteered multiple afternoons the following week to assemble the kits, which were then delivered to the Roe Jan Food Pantry to bring a little extra joy to community birthdays.

Elio says “All the hard work paid off after I knew I delivered a slice of joy to those who needed it most.” To make the cakes, recipients simply follow the instructions on the cake mix box, substituting soda for the eggs and oil. This project helped us connect with ourselves and others by working together through ups and downs for the greater good.