FFA Week 2026: National Day of Service with Western Region VP Jael Cruikshank

FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank talks about the importance of community service and how National FFA Organization members are making a difference in their communities during National FFA Week.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA (RFD NEWS) — It is FFA Week 2026! And to kick off the celebration is the National Day of Service, which represents a big part of the week’s overall message. National FFA Organization members from across the country are getting hands-on leadership opportunities to serve their community and make a difference, one small act at a time.

FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share why service is central to the FFA mission, emphasizing how giving back reflects the organization’s core values and builds leadership skills.

In her conversation with RFD NEWS, Cruikshank highlighted examples of chapters serving their communities this week and shared how her own experiences in supervised agricultural experiences—from market swine and dairy to entrepreneurship—have shaped her approach to service and advocacy. She also offered guidance for members on how to make a meaningful impact during National Days of Service.

If your FFA chapter is getting involved in National Days of Service, we want to see it! Share your photos and videos on social media or send them to [email protected]!

Follow us on social media
Related Stories
Paul Neiffer joined us to explain how USDA’s base acre expansion will be calculated, outline key deadlines for farmers, and discuss how the changes tie into farm program decisions and the broader Farm Bill outlook.
The trip is giving them a firsthand look at farming beyond the U.S.
The non-profit organization is helping feed communities while creating pathways for at-risk youth.
Expanded export financing could provide greater support for ag sales abroad if buyers and lenders use the additional tools.
The Purdue student team joins us to discuss how they developed Soy-Seal, their innovative soybean-based adhesive tape, and its potential ag impact.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

China still has a long way to go before it meets its commitment to buy 12 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans this year.
The new WOTUS proposal narrows federal jurisdiction, restores key agricultural exclusions, and gives farmers clearer permitting rules after years of regulatory uncertainty.
UMN Extension’s Emily Krekelberg outlines today’s top farm stressors, key signs of mental health distress in rural communities, and the resources available for support.
National Pork Board Chief Sustainability Officer Jamie Burr shares a closer look at the Pork Checkoff’s Pork Cares Farm Impact Report, a research program to increase trust in the pork supply chain.
Brooks York with Agrisompo joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report with some guidance on how producers can navigate their crop insurance claims for unsold grain crops.
For many farm businesses, property taxes on business assets have become a significant and highly visible expense, threatening liquidity, discouraging investment, and creating a disproportionate burden when compared to other industries.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.