Since 1933, the iconic blue jacket has left a big impact on members and is a prized possession, still hanging in the closets of many FFA alumni across the country.
However, over 50 percent of current FFA members do not have FFA blue jackets for official functions. They are traditionally worn as part of the FFA Official Dress at the local level and for state and national conventions, competitions, and special events. As a result, many resort to borrowing jackets from fellow or past members.
In 2014, the National FFA Organization began a program, Give the Gift of Blue, which provides funding for FFA members who might not otherwise have been able to own a blue jacket. Funded by individual donors and corporate sponsors, Give the Gift of Blue makes it possible to gift jackets to FFA members.
Over the last 90 years of the program, through the incredible generosity of contributors, over 17,000 blue jackets have been provided to FFA members facing financial challenges. Each blue jacket received serves as a reminder to members that they are part of something greater than themselves. It inspires them to learn, grow, and make a difference in agricultural education and leadership.
“Receiving my very own FFA jacket makes me feel like I am officially a part of this national organization. It represents confidence, growth, leadership, teamwork, and above all, family,” said one Give the Gift of Blue recipient from Mississippi.
The jacket unifies members in a long-standing tradition and reminds them that they are part of something bigger than themselves. Let’s give every member the chance to be part of the tradition. With the help of generous donations, National FFA gives jackets to members who would not otherwise be able to own their own. An $85 gift will provide a member with a jacket and tie or scarf; any donation helps. Donate now to Give the Gift of Blue.
Know someone who deserves to wear the blue? Nominate that individual today and help make sure that everyone has the chance to wear the blue jacket proudly.
»Related: The iconic blue FFA jacket: How it’s made