Nebraska

On March 29-30, around 6,000 Nebraska FFA members, advisors, and guests participated in the annual Nebraska State FFA Convention. Held in Lincoln,Nebraska, participants took part in numerous general sessions, competitive events, workshops focused on leadership, a career fair, and educational tours. During the conference, Emily Jacobson and John Davis were on site providing information about AgrAbility and answering questions. FFA members also had hands-on opportunities to learn about assistive technology by using some of the tools to overcome conditions like vision impairment.

Nebraska AgrAbility team members attending the NTW included Angie Howell, Aaron Yoder, Emily Jacobson, Nancy Frecks, and Soni Cochran. Past Nebraska AgrAbility teammate and current Nebraska AgrAbility Advisory Council member Susan Harris also attended. The Nebraska team was impressed with the scope and quality of the learning opportunities again this year. Meeting new people, making connections, and strengthening relationships with AgrAbility colleagues from across the country is always a highlight. The AgrAbility clients attending NTW leave everyone inspired. Here are a few takeaways from the Nebraska AgrAbility team:

• "The Amputee Coalition had a great session on workforce programming. There are several webinars offered through the Amputee Coalition's website. Sign up/subscribe!"
• "I really think this was one of the most beneficial conferences I have gone to."
• "The low-tech technology session was very interesting and showed 'tech' things so simple you have to think 'why didn't I think of that'."
• "During the fundraising session, I learned we could reach out to fraternities and sororities on campuses to help with fundraising or volunteering."
• "This was a great conference and I look forward to next year!"
• "I loved engaging with those who were on the tour bus and at the sessions. The speakers each day were so inspirational... and just being in the presence of wonderful AgrAbility folks, clients including the veterans, is something I cherish."
• "The session on resiliency and SAMHSA's Eight Domains of Wellness really made me think about how we can be intentional and find opportunities to integrate this in the work we do every day and in our own personal lives as self-care."
• "I was reminded that AgrAbility programs aren't always the same in every community. It is important to remember we may not fully understand the challenges people have, their experiences, and what they have overcome. When we work with people, we need to meet them where they are."
• "I attended the tour featuring a Hutterite Colony. It was nothing like what I expected and a unique learning experience. We were allowed to view the colony's farming operations which spanned 17,000 acres and included an Angus breeding herd. We also learned a little about their culture. I left the colony with more questions and wanting to learn more."
  

Submitted by Soni Cochran