News

Partnering to promote service

This weekend’s Brickyard 400 will be the first time the National FFA Organization is featured as a primary car sponsor in a NASCAR race.

The Number 38 Living to Serve Ford is a partnership between FFA and CSX.

Driver David Gilliland says he’s excited to represent the organization.  “I think what they do is incredible,” he says.  “The whole foundation is part of what kids these days need, in my opinion.  I’m just proud and honored to have the relationship we have.  And with CSX donating the car to FFA to help get their message out – is really special to me.”

Driver David Gilliand, Living to Serve Number 38 Ford

John Kitchens is the corporate citizenship director for CSX and works closely with FFA’s Living to Serve program.

He says his company’s values match up closely with those of FFA’s.  “To be able to bring them in to this particular event is very exciting,” he says.  “It’s a very exciting weekend and we’re looking forward to be able to promote community service and promote safety.”

John Kitchens, CSX

Michelle Sullivan, with FFA’s Living to Serve program tells Brownfield service engagement is vitally important in shaping the future of FFA members.  “Service engagement and service learning provides our members an opportunity to take what they are learning in their agricultural classrooms – the content knowledge – and the leadership skills they are gaining through FFA and actually make positive impacts on their communities,” she says.

Michelle Sullivan, National FFA Organzation

The Brickyard 400 is this Sunday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.