Ignite the Spirit
The Best Neighbors Iowa Has Are Still in High School.
Every December, student organizations across Iowa take on hunger in their own communities through Ignite the Spirit — armed with pork, a $500 grant, and the knowledge that what they do here actually matters.
Program Overview
Ignite the Spirit was built on a simple premise: the people best positioned to take care of a community are the ones who live in it. Each December, FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, FCCLA chapters, and other school groups receive four cases of pork loin, insulated totes, recipe booklets, and a $500 grant to purchase additional meal staples at their local grocery store.
What they do with it is up to them. Some cook community meals. Some assemble food baskets and deliver them door to door. Some partner with local food banks. The Foundation provides the resources and the trust. Students provide the community knowledge and the work ethic.
organizations participated in Ignite the Spirit in 2025 — a record
Iowa counties reached through student-led hunger relief projects
increase in participation over 2024
How to Apply
Ignite the Spirit is open each fall to youth-based organizations in communities where Iowa Select Farms operates — FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, FCCLA chapters, and other school or community groups. Watch for annual announcements each autumn, or reach out to the Foundation to be added to the notification list.
Put more resources in the hands of Iowa's young people.
