Have you ever been in a conversation and instead of listening, you catch yourself thinking about what to say next? Even if you are trying your best to pay attention, you actually lose the point of what they’re saying. It takes intentional effort to be listening to someone especially when you are excited to talk. Let’s take a look at these GreenStone employees who have shown us what it’s like to intentionally listen and how they are learning from others in our communities.
Michigan growers, processors, and friends of growers were invited to the Michigan Cherry Growers Alliance. Attendees had the opportunity to network and learn about the cherry industry, as well as voice their concerns.
Founder Leisa Hankins says, "Transparency plus truth equals trust. If we can find answers and widespread education, we can help the industry move forward."
As a partner in the agricultural industry, GreenStone has been participated with a goal to listen and provide our expertise in crop insurance and lending. We take great pride in supporting organizations like the Michigan Cherry Growers Alliance which bring together the industry to share experiences!
Similar to the Alliance, GreenStone's Annie Allen and Devon Rosebrugh were invited to the Potato Growers of Michigan, Inc. Food & Facts Tour. The morning began at Iott Seed Farms where they learned about the production of potatoes and the importance of monitoring water usage in irrigation systems. Moving from farm to production, their next stops were the Great Lakes Potato Chip Co. and the Grand Traverse Distillery. The experience and time together provided the opportunity to network and learn from other attendees while gaining insight into the various markets of the products our members grow.
Learning and growing is an ongoing experience, and youth with the Michigan FFA Association took a deep dive into new knowledge through their agriculture skills contests. Ranging from students competing in contests like floriculture, environmental skills, agriculture sales, and many other career-building contests, the exposure to new experiences is impactful to youth. GreenStone’s Public Relations Specialist, Amber Pratt, served as a judge for the marketing contest.
Pratt shared, “I was blown away by the impressive marketing plans Michigan FFA students presented during the competition. Their thoughtful plans and creative ideas to market each business were well thought out and it was obvious they spent many hours preparing their presentation as a team. If these are the next marketing leaders in agriculture, we are in promising hands.”
We are a proud supporter of FFA, and we thank Amber for going above and beyond to give back and support these youth. Congratulations to all those who competed!
GreenStone values learning in our communities. Visit our social media pages to see more of our staff getting involved; or to learn more about our community outreach and engagement efforts, visit Open Fields Blog | GreenStone FCShttps://www.greenstonefcs.com/resources/open-fields-blog
