Waukon FFA Chapter offers safe way to conduct annual fruit sales

COVID-19 has certainly changed the way people conduct their daily lives, and Waukon High School’s Little Switzerland FFA Chapter Advisor Jessica O’Connor says her FFA chapter is no different, having also had to change the way it operates while continuing to challenge chapter members and make them more resilient. COVID-19 has made it so her chapter has to conduct fundraisers in a manner that is safe for both its members and its supporters.

Within that realm, this year’s FFA fruit sales format will be different than in the past. Little Switzerland FFA Chapter members will once again be selling fruit from October 5-28, but in a variety of different formats with health and safety in mind, with delivery still occurring during the first week in December.

“While I believe it is important to teach our youth appropriate selling skills, this year, safety is most important for everyone involved,” O’Connor explained.

FFA members will still have the traditional order forms but, in order to keep everyone safe, those who wish to provide support through this year’s fruit sales will have the opportunity to call in their order to O’Connor or order directly online through the company. If a customer would like to call or email their order to O’Connor, they can identify a student whom they would like to receive their order for credit towards the chapter’s fruit sales awards during the annual banquet.

A customer can also order directly from the company the Little Switzerland FFA Chapter works with. Ordering online also gives customers the opportunity to identify a student whom they would like to see receive that sale credit.

The online ordering system can be found on the Allamakee Community School District Facebook page. Orders can also be sent to joconnor@allamakee.k12.ia.us or by calling the school at 563-568-3466 and asking to be transferred to the agriculture department.

Funds raised during fruit sales will help students offset costs associated with conventions, conferences, contests and many other opportunities students have as a member.

“We greatly appreciate everyone’s understanding and support during this unprecedented time,” O’Connor said.