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
One student is working to help farmers protect livestock and property.
Young anglers learn skills on the water while building a deeper connection to the outdoors.
Just like cows, kids experience ups and downs—from small frustrations to unexpected moments—but there is still good in every day.
Landowners interested in protecting working ground through an easement now have another funding window open until the end of May.
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.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

We caught up with Karen Braun, Chief Market Analyst at Zaner Ag Hedge, at the Women in Agribusiness to discuss the data behind commodity trading.
Weston Brown joined us on Monday in the RFD-TV Studios in Nashville to share how he is preparing for the upcoming National FFA Convention & Expo.
Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn joined us Monday to share highlights from Secretary Brooke Rollins’ visit and her perspective on USDA’s new initiatives.
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert, Roger McEowen, with the Washburn School of Law, joined us Monday to break down the changes and explain what producers should know.
North Dakota Farmers Union (NDFU) President Mark Watne joined us Monday to share his perspective on the America First Trade Promotion Program and potential implications for producers.
Dividing up a family farming operation can be challenging, especially for children who may not want to become farmers themselves.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
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.
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.
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.
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.