More than 16,000 members of the Texas Future Farmers of America Association and their guests have arrived in Fort Worth for the organization’s annual convention. The gathering is taking place this week at the Fort Worth Convention Center Arena.
Participants are easily identifiable by their official blue corduroy jackets, which they wear regardless of the triple-digit July temperatures. Beyond the standard business proceedings, community service remains a central tradition for the group. During a hot Tuesday afternoon, several students worked in Gateway Park to collect litter. Over the course of two days, the group cleaned three additional parks and provided assistance at two nonprofit organizations.
Tori Tompkins, vice president of the Waller High School FFA chapter, explained that the service work was a way to reciprocate the city’s hospitality. She stated that the group was cleaning the park because the community allowed them to host the event there.
Bella Guys, a member of the Judson High School FFA chapter, noted that her involvement in the organization for the past three years has included raising livestock and judging wool. She said the experience has taught her about teamwork and the importance of serving the community.
Students at the convention emphasized that the organization focuses on more than just agriculture. They described the group as a place for building future skills, including leadership development, hands-on learning, and career readiness.
