The Gift of Blue: Opening Doors for the Next Generation of FFA Members
Oct 16
3 min read
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This blog is taken an interview with Beth Gaines, Kansas FFA Foundation Executive Director.
For many students across Kansas, wearing the iconic blue corduroy FFA jacket is more than just a tradition — it’s a symbol of pride, hard work, and belonging. But for some, the cost of that jacket can be a barrier that keeps them from fully experiencing all that FFA has to offer.
That’s where the Gift of Blue program steps in.
Offered through both the National FFA Organization and the Kansas FFA Association, the Gift of Blue provides jackets to students enrolled in agricultural education classes who face financial challenges. Each student who applies shares their goals, dreams, and reasons for wanting to wear the jacket, while their agriculture teacher helps endorse their application by describing the student’s circumstances and potential.
“We want every student to have that opportunity to feel like they belong — to be a part of something bigger than themselves,” explained a Kansas FFA representative. “For many, that’s being a part of the FFA. Having that jacket of their very own is generally a very meaningful token to them.”
The blue jacket, paired with black pants and a white shirt, has become an instantly recognizable symbol of leadership and community in agriculture. But with the cost of each jacket around $60, many students simply can’t afford it. Through the Gift of Blue, students can proudly wear their official FFA uniform and take part in all the organization has to offer.
“We like to say that the front of the jacket says who they are, the back says where they’re from, but nowhere on that jacket does it say how far they will go,” she added.
The Power of Giving Back
The Gift of Blue is made possible through generous sponsors — including local cooperatives, individuals, and national companies — who believe in investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Some sponsors were once FFA members themselves and understand how the program shaped their lives and careers. Others never had the chance to wear the blue jacket but recognize its value and want to give back.
“For some, it’s part of their legacy,” she explained. “For others, it’s about helping young people discover agriculture and maybe even become their future employees or customers. It’s a way to keep our rural communities vibrant.”
Stories That Stay With You
One story in particular stands out — a young man who received a Gift of Blue jacket after losing his father.
“In his thank-you note, he wrote, ‘I think my dad would really be proud of me, and I know he’s watching me in my blue jacket,’” she shared. “It’s moments like that that remind us this program is about so much more than clothing. It’s about pride, purpose, and belonging.”
How to Get Involved
The need for the Gift of Blue program continues to grow. This year alone, nearly 200 students applied for jackets, but only 55 were able to receive them due to limited sponsorship funding.
“That door is always open,” she said. “If someone wants to help a young person get an FFA jacket of their very own, we’d love to make that possible.”
Individuals or businesses interested in donating can find the link to contribute on the Kansas FFA website or through the press release connected to this story. Sponsors can even choose to keep their donations local by designating a specific county or region.
Because when a student slips on that blue jacket for the first time, they’re not just wearing a piece of fabric — they’re stepping into a future full of possibilities.
To donate to the Gift of Blue program, here is the link: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/giftofblue.
