You need look no further than the “Super Suburbs” blog to see the success of the Illinois Farm Families (IFF) effort. Illinois corn checkoff dollars, invested by the Illinois Corn Marketing Board, continue to fund this collaborative program. One of Illinois Corn’s expectations of the IFF program is that we build a network of non-farmer advocates of Illinois agriculture. In this blog, a former “field mom” explains to her suburban readers what it takes to take care of livestock during this week’s brutal winter weather…she’s definitely advocating for farmers like you!

Betsie Estes writes in her blog, “So as I write this from my toasty house looking out the window at the frozen landscape today, I’m thinking of all the farmers out braving the elements, thankful for their never-ending commitment to the land and the animals in their care.”

Estes’ blog is based on learning about the work of Fulton County farmers John and Holly Spangler, both of whom have committed to the Illinois Farm Families spokesmanship program. Have you considered learning more about how to communicate with non-farmers? We have an online training program available for you to consider. Email Tricia Braid for more information at tbraid@ilcorn.org.

Illinois Farm Families are Illinois farmers who support Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Illinois Soybean Association, and Illinois Beef Association through farmer membership and checkoff programs. We are committed to having conversations with consumers, answering their questions about food, farmers and farming, and sharing what really happens on today’s Illinois family farms. More than 94 percent of Illinois farms are family owned and operated. We are passionate about showing consumers how we grow safe, healthy food for their families and ours.