STIRLING – The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) announced it has been selected to participate in the You Make the Difference National Initiative.
Made possible through the support of Fairs.com, this initiative provides training and tools to help local fairs and exhibitions strengthen volunteerism, leadership and community engagement, officials say.
As part of the program, every agricultural society in Ontario will receive access to a 3.5-hour, in-person workshop tailored to their community’s needs.
Participants will also gain ongoing access to an online learning hub filled with videos, resources and templates for continued development.
“We’re thrilled to bring [this] initiative to Ontario,” said OAAS president Heather Owens and executive director Vince Brennan.
“This program will strengthen our fairs and agricultural societies, equip our volunteers, and build pride in the communities that make rural life so special. With the leadership of Ian Hill and the support of Fairs.com, we’re ready to make a lasting impact.”
The program will launch in February at the OAAS annual convention and roll out province–wide in April and May.
In addition to the training offered to every board and volunteer team, the OAAS will receive a $1,000 coordination grant to assist with local implementation.
For more information about the initiative and its impact on fairs and agricultural societies in Ontario, visit ontarioagsocieties.com or contact Brennan at vince@oaasfairs.com.
