East Henderson High School Agriculture Receives $3,500 Grant From AgSouth

Flat Rock, NC – East Henderson High School Agriculture department was selected as a recipient of the 2024-2025 AgSouth Growing Our Communities Grant. They were one of 43 organizations chosen across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina to receive the grant from a total of 187 applications.

East Henderson High School’s agriculture department plays a crucial role in shaping students’ futures by providing a strong foundation in agricultural sciences, leadership, and practical skills. The department offers students hands-on experience in a variety of areas, such as plant science, animal science, agribusiness, and sustainable agriculture. These courses not only prepare students for careers in agriculture but also equip them with skills that are transferable to many other fields, including problem-solving, communication, and leadership.

The agriculture department is closely connected to FFA, a national organization that supports students involved in agricultural education. FFA is a vital part of East Henderson’s agriculture program, offering students the opportunity to engage in leadership development, career exploration, and community service. They plan to use the grant to expand  opportunities for more students to show livestock which would greatly benefit those involved in East Henderson High School’s agriculture department, as it would allow them to gain hands-on experience and build practical skills in animal care, management, and showmanship. This grant would open doors to invaluable learning experiences, teach responsibility and discipline, and prepare students for future careers in agriculture. Plus, the real-world experience of showing livestock instills a strong sense of pride and accomplishment, which can build leadership and teamwork skills that are beneficial in many areas of life.

“Our Growing Our Communities Grant is another way that AgSouth Farm Credit strives to enhance agriculture and rural communities in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.” said Vance Dalton, CEO, AgSouth Farm Credit, “These grants help provide project funding for many great organizations across our territory.”

The AgSouth Growing Our Communities Grant operates on an application-based grant system. Non-profit organizations may apply for up to $5,000 per year to help in their endeavors to promote agriculture, as well as stimulate their local agricultural economy. Grant applications will be accepted from April 1 to June 30, 2025. Project proposals will be reviewed and grants will be awarded in the fourth quarter of 2025. To qualify for a grant, non-profit organizations must be located within the 147 counties and geographic area where AgSouth Farm Credit conducts business. For more information and to apply, please visit the AgSouth Growing Our Communities Grant page.

About AgSouth:
AgSouth Farm Credit provides loans for land, equipment, and production agriculture; crop insurance; leasing; and home mortgages. The Association serves counties in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina and is headquartered in Statesville, North Carolina. AgSouth is an equal housing lender and an equal opportunity provider.