We proudly report that in 2018, UFA invested over $750,000 by giving back to communities where our members live and work and by investing in programs and initiatives that support rural communities.
Our signature Grassroots Giving program supports strong and vibrant rural communities. In 2018, UFA provided funding for over 400 community-oriented events such as rodeos, curling bonspiels and many other agricultural events and festivals. The goal of Grassroots Giving is to bring neighbours together and help communities thrive.
UFA also provides support to programs that have broader reaching impact such as Alberta 4-H, Alberta Community and Co-operative Association and Cattleman Young Leaders. These programs demonstrate our commitment to providing leadership and educational experiences for youth.
In addition to these programs, UFA continued support of Ag For Life, a program that focuses on delivering educational programming to children, youth, and adults across the province with the goal of building a genuine understanding of agriculture and where our food comes from. In 2018 a new rural safety unit was unveiled, one that we can proudly say is Fueled by UFA! This mobile unit, operated by Ag For Life’s team of safety specialists, travelled across the province and in its first year, connected with over 90,000 visitors; the unit provides an opportunity to learn important rural and farm safety information through seven digital, tactile and mechanical interactive stations.
As part of our commitment to recreation and sport, we partnered with Team Koe as well as the Calgary Stampede. In 2018, UFA became the Official Fuel Supplier of the Calgary Stampede and we continued to tell the story of beef from “pasture to plate” at the UFA Cattle Trail during the 10-day event.
UFA also recognizes the importance of supporting mental health in rural communities. That’s why in 2018, we announced a significant contribution to support two mental health awareness programs created by 4-H Canada and the Do More Ag Foundation that focus on emotional and social development to build a foundation for mental health in rural communities.
And finally, in October, 2018, we demonstrated our commitment to supporting innovation in agriculture with a new five-year, $500,000 partnership with Olds College. This investment will facilitate the development of the UFA Innovation Lab and sponsor the first UFA-hosted Innovation Day at Olds College in the fall of 2019.
Each of our partners are special to us and together with our Grassroots Giving program, demonstrate our commitment to supporting our rural roots.
