LEXINGTON, KY – The Kentucky 4-H Foundation is asking farmers across the Commonwealth to step-up and make the “Ag Tag” donation.
Beginning in 2012, Commissioner of Agriculture James Comer announced all farm license plate donations will be split evenly among 4-H, FFA and the Kentucky Proud program, which are vital programs for Kentucky’s youth and Kentucky’s agricultural economy.
In March, farmers can make a voluntary donation of $10 when renewing their farm license plates at the county clerk’s office. With more than 160,000 farm plates bought or renewed each year in Kentucky, the commissioner’s action could generate up to $1.6 million annually.
“I strongly believe that these programs are worthy of your support,” said Agriculture Commissioner James Comer. “4-H and FFA helps develop our youth, preparing them for career success, teaching leadership, citizenship, and life-skills that equip them to be our future leaders.”
Over 229,000 youth are involved in KY 4-H programs. Kentucky ranks in top 10 in several 4-H enrollment categories nationwide. All 120 counties in Kentucky have 4-H programs, and all counties will receive a portion of the support from this new fund raising opportunity.
“We have been given a tremendous opportunity by Commissioner Comer to raise significant funds to support 4-H,” said Keith Rogers, executive director of the Kentucky 4-H Foundation. “The voluntary donations from the Kentucky farm license plate program are a new funding source to help pay for programming, supplies and much more, especially during a time when funding for extracurricular activities is hard to come by.”
Last year the 4-H statewide shared total was $121,708.64. The Kentucky 4-H Foundation splits the donations between the county where the funds originated and the 4-H Foundation.
That means part of the farm plate donation stays in the county where it originated for funding programs and activities that teach children and teens about leadership, citizenship, science and technology, communications, public speaking, agriculture and more. The 4-H Foundation uses the other half to support state level 4-H programs that furthers a 4-H member’s positive experiences and opportunities.
Making the voluntary $10 donation is an excellent opportunity for you to support the youth in your community and help fund the programs that can make a lasting difference in their lives.
