Those that join the Alliance are signing on to a professional development opportunity for themselves as well as dedicating efforts to the development of the next generation of agriculture leaders.  A portion of Alliance membership is set aside to sponsor returning collegiate delegates to the AFA Leaders Conference. The Alliance believes in giving back and networking with current and potential leaders.

In 2001, Alliance members created an opportunity to give additional funds to this effort.  The “50 For the Future” effort allows Alliance members to give additional gifts to benefit this sponsorship fund.  When making an investment of $50 or more, the full amount goes to provide an additional leader and career opportunity to college students in the AFA network. These funds qualify as a fully tax-deductible gift.

In 2006, the Alliance joined its contribution with the Brian E. Perry Memorial Fund. Brian was AFA’s number one volunteer. He always lent a helping hand to AFA staff and members, becoming a mentor and friend to many young men and women over the course of his, and AFA’s, life.  Many of these individuals are now members of the Alliance. Brian died March 2, 2005, after a battle with cancer. Brian asked that memorials from this fund support AFA members continued involvement in the organization. Brian was the husband of former AFA executive assistant Kris Perry.

The recipients of the 2007 Brian Perry sponsorship were Melia Mattke (Junior, KSU, Majoring in Animal Science) and Joseph Tvrdy (Sophomore, MU, Majoring in Ag Business).

Current collegiate AFA members are eligible to apply for sponsorship through the Brian Perry Alliance Memorial Fund via an application process each year.  Click here to download the application.