Florida

Florida AgrAbility and Georgia AgrAbility partnered to host a joint booth at the 2025 Sunbelt Ag Expo in Moultrie, GA. The programs shared resources and information on assistive technologies and services to support farmers and ranchers with disabilities or chronic health conditions. Staff from both states connected with attendees and strengthened regional partnerships throughout the event.

On October 22nd, Dr. Vanessa Spero, Florida AgrAbility outreach coordinator and 4-H regional specialized Extension agent, and Noelle Guay, 4-H Extension agent in Palm Beach County, presented at Florida Afterschool's Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida. Their session introduced "Barnyard Challengers," a 4-H club that engages youth with disabilities in poultry projects, to youth educators from across the state. They highlighted the opportunities to involve the next generation in agriculture and make it accessible for all

Shelby Thomas, Florida AgrAbility communication and engagement specialist, attended the Florida Farm Bureau Federation 84th State Annual Meeting in Daytona Beach, FL, on October 27th and 28th. The state annual meeting is the pinnacle of Florida Farm Bureau's grassroots advocacy. Members were celebrated, and delegates discussed and set policy that will guide the organization for the next year. Notably, a teen mentor of the Florida AgrAbility Barnyard Challengers 4-H program participated in the youth speech contest. Through networking and involvement, Florida AgrAbility creates connections and gains valuable insight to better serve the agricultural community.

Submitted by Tara Dorn