Beyond the Barn: The Power of One – Vita Plus Expedition Chick Day 2013

Posted on August 29, 2013 in Starting Strong - Calf Care
More than 120 farm women, employee owners and industry peers gathered together August 16 for Vita Plus Expedition Chick Day 2013. The annual event took place at Indianhead Holsteins Ltd. in Barron, Wisconsin. Each part of the event focused on the theme of “The Power of One” as attendees were reminded that one small pebble can make a big ripple. Throughout the day, the farm women explored ways they can make positive differences in their own lives, on their farms and in their communities.

Indianhead Holsteins Ltd. is owned and operated by Bob and Karyn Schauf and has a long history of excellence in dairy genetics. As the Schaufs guided attendees on a farm tour, they explained their strategy for success is to surround themselves with great people who care as much about the farm as they do. During his breakout presentation, Peter Coyne, Vita Plus dairy service specialist, echoed this strategy of building effective teams. He said that a culture of trust amongst engaged employees is a cornerstone of today’s successful farms.

Katie Grinstead, a partner in Vir-Clar Farm in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, also shared some of the ways she tries to make a positive difference. Grinstead heads up her farm’s calf program and numerous other on-farm responsibilities. In addition to being a wife and mother of three young children, she takes the lead on several volunteer projects to help consumers in her community learn more about modern agriculture. Grinstead said the secret to balancing it all is to simply focus on the things that make you happiest. According to Andrea Bloom, Vita Plus marketing and communications specialist, these values of hard work, commitment and passion for what you do are essential to making a difference in the local community. During her breakout presentation, Bloom reminded attendees that consumers share these values and want to know they guide on-farm decisions and actions every day.

To wrap up the day, keynote speaker Celeste Settrini, a rancher from Salinas, California, challenged the women to think creatively about how they can make a difference. She said it’s a much better use of time to celebrate what you love and forget the negative voices. With that in mind, she asked attendees, “What would you do if you weren’t afraid of making a mistake?”

Vita Plus Chick Day 2013 attendees didn’t have to wait to get home to realize “The Power of One” and start making a difference. Through a silent auction of several themed gift baskets, attendees raised $1,100 for AgrAbility of Wisconsin. Since 1991, this program has assisted farmers with disabilities and their families. The organization offers expertise in safely farming with numerous disabilities, including respiratory impairments, amputations, arthritis, and hearing and visual impairments.

“We are continually impressed by the hard work and passion these women bring to their farms every day,” said Kim Bremmer, Vita Plus Loyal nutrition consultant. “Chick Day is a great opportunity to bring them all together to share ideas, celebrate agriculture and find new ways to make a big difference.”

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Category: Industry activities
Starting Strong - Calf Care