Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we have to pay dues if it is a volunteer organization?
The $45 yearly dues cover memberships in your chapter, the state level
of OWA, and American Agri-Women. It's also a way for our volunteers
to have a vested interest in the organization.
Do I have to attend a bunch of meetings to participate?
Not at all! We have set up our chapter structure so that we have an annual budget, a board of directors along with our chapter officers, and committees. The board and officers meet regularly and there is an all member meeting each March. Our goal is to have our committees function as they see fit and as needed. For example our Scholarship Committee is active in February, May, September, and October. Most of it can be done through email and Zoom.
Do I have to sign up for a specific committee or project?
While we would love to have your help in an area of your interest it is never a requirement.
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What are the chapter's events?
Our chapter supports Ag youth through stock show buckle sponsorship and FFA auction donations. In our efforts to share the story of today's agriculture we maintain a social media presence sharing agricultural facts and promoting agricultural interests. We also facilitate the presence of crop signs in fields along the major roadways in our counties. Through Ag in the Classroom our members share an agricultural lesson and read an agricultural book to elementary students. We are always welcome to new ideas and help on ways to promote agriculture!
What are the events the chapter participates in on a state level?
Every September we host that month’s state OWA board meeting. It is held during the Pendleton Round-Up. We participate in the Westward Ho parade, attend the governor’s luncheon, and then host the meeting. Each April we help solicit and gather donations for the annual OWA auction and dinner. This is the sole fundraiser for the state organization and the source of the chapter funds we receive from the state. The state OWA holds an annual convention along with the state OWA all member business meeting each February. The different chapters take turns hosting this. It will be back in our area in 2028!
Do I have to fund-raise like crazy?
Our chapter donates items to the state auction and then we hold one fundraiser each year. Our chapter fundraiser is our annual raffle that funds our scholarship program. How much we raise is how much we can award in scholarships the next year. Our goal is to hit $10,000 each year through this program!
What if I don’t know that much about agriculture, can I still join?
We promise there isn’t a pop quiz. We are Women for Agriculture not only Women in Agriculture. A passion to help share the story of today’s agriculture and to promote, unite, and educate are all that is needed.
What is the greatest part of becoming a member?
Almost every member will tell you it is the connections, friendships, and networking that are the best things they have gained from their membership. In our organization best friends have been made, cross-state connections have been formed, and knowledge is shared freely.