Originally, FFA stood for Future Farmers of America. The organization, which began in 1953, helped high school students learn the skills to work in agriculture/farming leadership. Today, Minnesota FFA provides five different camps/conferences to students of differing experience levels. Levels range from beginning with only one year of experience in the organization to leadership levels at which student campers learn skills that will make them into great leaders. All five-day camps cost $160, which includes a $60 commitment/non-refundable fee along with the application. Each of these camping opportunities takes place at the beginning of the summer in June or July. The Washington Leadership Conference is the only exception, costing $1,080, which includes registration, airfare, transportation, and miscellaneous fees from Minnesota to Washington, D.C.
The State Greenhand Leadership Conference (SGLC)
This conference is for students in their first year of FFA. This five-day conference takes place at Deep Portage Conservation Reserve in Hackensack, Minnesota, where campers learn more about the National FFA Organization, discover their leadership abilities, and meet other campers from Minnesota. They can also have fun in the lake and on the rock wall, take a walk on a hiking trail, and play contact sports like football, basketball, and volleyball.
State Leadership Conference for Chapter Leaders (SLCCL)
This conference is designed for sophomores and juniors who want to become leaders of their area chapters. It teaches students valuable communication, time management, and assessment skills that can prepare them for national or local leadership positions.
Fun Inspiration Learning Leadership (FILL)
This conference camping experience encourages student to have fun. It costs $115 and lasts for three days. The topics covered include leadership ethics, communication, and use of resources. Character building, networking, and self-actualization are taught. It takes place at Camp Friendship in Annandale, Minnesota.
Washington Leadership Conference (WLC)
This conference is a seven-day conference taught by former state and national FFA member. During the week, students learn how to solve problems, build strong relationships and strong characters, and serve others.
Providing Officers with Essential Resources (POWER)
Students work with officers from around Minnesota establishing regional goals for each FFA chapter. This is a hands-on conference in which students work with other agricultural businesses and get help from business owners. They learn to work cooperatively with others in a team setting, guiding their own Program of Activities. Teamwork is the name of the game here.
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