FFA Today: South Side Chicago is proving agriculture isn’t just for rural areas

When people hear FFA, they often think of farms, tractors, and wide-open fields. But on the South side of Chicago, the Gary Comer Youth Center FFA Chapter is proving that agriculture can grow anywhere, even on a rooftop. Their mission is to inspire the community to see ag in a whole new way.

Aniyah Smith and Janay Bussell joined RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander to discuss what led them to FFA, their rooftop farm, and how their chapter gives back to the community.

Related Stories
This week in Washington, National FFA members are advocating for the agriculture industry on Capitol Hill for National Ag Day.
FFA Program Specialist Ashli Weinrich highlights how the FFA Next Gen Conference helps ag students explore career opportunities and build skills for the future.
Success requires more than talent — on this week’s FFA Today, agriculture students show us the hard work, dedication, and teamwork required to gain important skills outside of the classroom through the National FFA Organization.
Auction manager and West Texas A&M University student Presley Graves joined us to discuss the growth of StockShowAuctions.com and its impact on youth in agriculture.
Lily Pryer’s passion shows how National FFA members are making an impact in classrooms and communities all across Rural America.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

China’s buying decisions continue to be a critical factor in shaping cotton prices and export opportunities worldwide.
Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
Secretary Rollins’ plan targets high costs, labor challenges, and export growth, delivering relief at home while building markets abroad.
Transportation challenges are mounting as droughts lower Mississippi River levels and push freight rates higher.
Waiting could risk leaving next year’s crop unprotected.
Michigan corn farmer and NCGA Vice President-Elect Matt Frostic will lead the task force. He joined us on Thursday to share his insights on the escalating corn crisis.