Fond du Lac County farmer Dave Schmitz, directed $2,500 to Envision Greater Fond du Lac’s Agri-Business Council through America’s Farmers Grow Communities, sponsored by the Bayer Fund. As part of their mission, the Agri-Business Council will use the funds to cultivate passion for agriculture in the community through education, promotion and partnerships.

“I feel strongly that we need to communicate agriculture’s story to our consumers and that our Ag Ambassador program is well prepared to do that,” said Dave Schmitz of Schmitz’s East Branch Dairy Farm.

Founded in 1980, the Agri-Business Council provides education on the role of agri-business in the economy of the greater Fond du Lac area through events such as Breakfast on the Farm, the Agriculture Showcase, and June Dairy Days. In addition to special events, the Ag Ambassador program provides educational programs to 13,000 students and community members each year, free of charge. The program was developed out of a need to inform adults and youth about the production and nutritional value of agricultural products produced in our community or state, as well as the impact agriculture has in our daily lives.

“We are grateful for Dave’s continued support of the Agri-Business Council and Ag Ambassador Program,” said Amy Ries, Director of Agricultural Programs for Envision Greater Fond du Lac. “This donation will allow us to continue to provide free educational programs to further educate the community on where our food comes from and how agriculture plays a role in our everyday lives.”

Celebrating its 10th year, America’s Farmers Grow Communities partners with farmers to support nonprofit organizations strengthening rural communities. The program offers farmers the chance to direct a $2,500 donation to a nonprofit of their choice. It has awarded more than $33 million to over 8,000 nonprofits across rural America.

“A better life is Bayer’s goal. Farmers are invested in their communities, they root for their neighbors, and they know when and where there is a need,” said Al Mitchell, Vice President Corporate Engagement, Bayer. “Farmers are one of America’s best resources, which is why Grow Communities partners with them to direct donations to the organizations they are passionate about and that make a positive impact and a better life in communities.”

To learn more about Envision Greater Fond du Lac and its Agricultural programming, visit: www.envisiongreaterfdl.com/agri-business-council/ or call (920) 921-9500. To learn more about the America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, visit www.AmericasFarmers.com or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericasFarmers.