A gift for tomorrow

Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives empower youth leadership through 4-H and FFA

Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives are lighting the way for a new generation of young leaders, not just by keeping the lights on but also by fueling ambitions and dreams through partnerships with 4-H and FFA.

For decades, co-ops have gone beyond their utility poles and powerlines, investing in the programs that mold Oklahoma’s youth into dedicated citizens, skilled professionals and community-minded leaders. This support is about more than scholarships or sponsorships — it’s about helping young Oklahomans gain the confidence and skills to shape the future of their state, one county fair and convention at a time.

Building tomorrow’s leaders through 4-H

For Oklahoma 4-H, the relationship with the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives (OAEC) has been transformational. Since the late 1970s, OAEC has invested close to $100,000 through the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, a nonprofit that supports programs, scholarships and awards. Each year, this funding contributes to everything from the health and fitness scholarship, statewide competitions and illustrated demonstrations to leadership development events like 4-H Roundup and 4-H Honor Night Banquet. Local co-ops have also poured thousands of dollars into 4-H at the county and district levels, helping young people in every corner of the state.

“Oklahoma 4-H will always be indebted to OAEC and rural electric cooperatives for their partnership and loyal support,” says Milford H. Jenkins, executive director of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation. “Their investment has made a difference in the lives of countless 4-H youth across Oklahoma, giving them the skills they need to succeed, no matter what path they choose.”

These programs do more than teach technical skills; they shape character and inspire service. Studies show that youth involved in 4-H are four times more likely to contribute to their communities and twice as likely to be civically active. They’re also twice as likely to engage in STEM and health-focused activities, translating these skills into real-world impact across Oklahoma.

Strengthening traditions, shaping futures through FFA

FFA’s reach is equally impressive, with nearly 30,000 members benefiting from OAEC’s commitment to agricultural education and leadership training. OAEC’s sponsorships allow FFA to offer key programs like Leadership on Demand videos, produced by FFA state officers and shared with 368 FFA chapters across Oklahoma. In addition to financial support, OAEC contributes to programs that directly equip members with career-ready skills, such as the Ag Ed Career Passports, awarded to students who pass rigorous exams in their specific agricultural education area.

Jacey Fye, Executive Director of the Oklahoma FFA Foundation, expressed how much this partnership means to the organization.

“OAEC understands the workforce training and leadership skills that are instilled in students through FFA,” she says. “Their support makes a positive difference in the lives of our members in all 77 Oklahoma counties.”

A current organizational focus is increasing the FFA Alumni Camp Generational Fund Campaign, which supports a new 199-acre camp on Lake Ft. Gibson. With the campaign’s help, the FFA Alumni Association has secured a 50-year lease on this land, ensuring a dedicated camp space for future generations of Oklahoma FFA members.

At the heart of this support for both organizations is a belief in the power of young people to create lasting, positive change.

“Investing in our youth is investing in the future of Oklahoma,” says Stacy Howeth, OAEC director of member services. “These programs build leadership, foster community involvement and provide skills that benefit not only our rural areas but the entire state. We’re proud to play a part in shaping these young leaders.”

To learn more, visit 4h.okstate.edu or
www.okffaimpact.com.

What are 4-H and FFA?

“To make the best better”

4-H is a youth development organization that empowers young people to learn by doing through hands-on projects in areas like agriculture, science, health and citizenship. With a focus on leadership and life skills, 4-H encourages members to take an active role in their communities and become engaged, responsible citizens.

“Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live and living to serve”

FFA is a national organization dedicated to preparing students for careers in agriculture and related fields. Through leadership training, competitions and hands-on experiences, FFA cultivates a new generation of agricultural leaders, promoting personal growth, teamwork and community service.