By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Farm Bureau has expanded its successful "value first" pilot project to 24 northwest Ohio counties after a year of evaluation and input from members, staff, and leaders.
Originally launched in 12 counties, the project’s goal is to improve member services and promote the tangible value of Farm Bureau membership.
The pilot project focuses on offering new approaches to acquiring and retaining members by creating a more individualized experience. It also introduces a new staff structure to deliver specialized expertise to meet the Farm Bureau’s overall goals.
The expanded project now covers Allen, Auglaize, Crawford, Defiance, Fulton, Hancock, Hardin, Henry, Logan, Lucas, Marion, Mercer, Morrow, Ottawa, Paulding, Putnam, Richland, Sandusky, Seneca, Shelby, Van Wert, Williams, Wood, and Wyandot counties.
Paul Lyons, Ohio Farm Bureau’s vice president of membership, emphasized the project’s success in delivering valuable expertise and resources that align with members’ needs.
“This project delivers expertise on the topics and issues we focus on every day, showing the tangible benefits our members and their communities receive from Farm Bureau membership,” Lyons said.
As the project grows, several organization directors have been promoted to expanded roles. Abra Dunn, now a business solutions specialist for four counties, will help members optimize their farm’s potential through resources like the Ohio Farm Bureau Health Benefits Plan and workforce recruitment services.
Emily Stevens has been named a leveraging trends specialist, focusing on keeping members informed about the latest trends and challenges in agriculture.
Kirsten Kemner has been appointed a member service specialist, working to strengthen membership engagement and support in her counties.
The expansion stems from a feasibility study and focus group discussions that revealed a need for more specialized member services at the county level.
This new structure is designed to give members greater opportunities for success and involvement within the organization.
Photo Credit: ohio-farm-bureau
Categories: Ohio, General