The theme of the 2008 'Quilt of the Counties” is “Blessed Country”. Started in the 1980s and now a Farm Bureau tradition, a new quilt is created each year as a fund raising project of county and state Farm Bureau Women’s committees. Funds raised by the quilt are used to support Agriculture in the Classroom. Virtual workshops, the AITC website, teacher resources and scholarships for teacher in-service training are just a few of the many programs supported by this fundraiser.

Betty Wolanyk, Director, AFB Foundation for Agriculture commented, “As the public becomes more and more removed from the farm, and the estimate is that the average citizen is 3 generations removed from the farm, they no longer understand the basics of where their food and fiber come from. They do not understand how really important it is for America to have a safe, and abundant domestic food supply produced by American farmers.”

Funding AITC projects helps lay the foundation for a better understanding by our urban neighbors of the vital contribution farmers and ranchers make to our society and economy. Food, fiber, fuel and pharmaceuticals are products of the farm. Where did this morning’s breakfast originate? – Not at the grocery store!

Farm Bureau counties are encouraged to reserve the quilt for their summer picnic, county fair, stock show, talent find or any other event where the quilt can be displayed. For each dollar donated, the donor’s name will be entered in a drawing for the quilt. The drawing will take place at the state convention in November.