August 2, 2019 – It’s no secret that harvest is a hectic, stressful time when growers are pulling consecutive all-nighters and hullers/shellers are working around the clock to push product to the handler. And let’s be honest – while taking a break in the middle of the madness may sound insane, it may actually be the best thing for you. Just one night of fun could help you recharge and mentally reset, all while supporting today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders.
Since 2016, the Almond Leadership Program has raised over $100,000 for California FFA, and this year’s class is well on its way to meeting its goal of raising $25,000.
Enter the End of Summer White Party fundraiser, hosted by the Almond Board of California (ABC) 2019 Almond Leadership Program.
The White Party will be held on Saturday, August 24, from 7-11 p.m. at the Gupta Estate in Tulare. It is a 21 and over event. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit a variety of vendor booths, ranging from local restaurants to wineries and breweries, to taste their finest offerings and speak with local businesses. Later in the evening, lawn games will become available and a DJ will crank up the fun on the dance floor. Tickets to attend are $50/person, and once attendees are through the door there’s no further charge to try the vendors’ offerings. And, importantly, all proceeds from the White Party fundraiser will go towards scholarships for California FFA students who plan to study agriculture in college.
“Think of it as an upscale farmers’ market where everyone is wearing white,” said Leadership participant Purnima Gupta. “People can mingle around with friends and family, trying different foods and drinks from local businesses, while also supporting high schoolers who aim to be the future of California agriculture, and the almond industry.”
And yes, you heard that right: All attendees are strongly encouraged to wear white clothing – hence the White Party!
With the goal of raising scholarship funds for California FFA students, the Leadership program is also offering event sponsorships for businesses and generous attendees. There are multiple sponsorship levels available, and the highest sponsorship level includes but is not limited to 16 event tickets and two reserved tables, company logos on all ticket confirmation stubs, VIP parking, drink tickets and recognition on-site at the event. Those who are interested in sponsoring the event can click here to learn more.
But some of you may be wondering, “Why a White Party?”
Leadership participant Gupta had the idea for a White Party fundraiser because at her previous job, she had the opportunity to attend and plan multiple White Parties in Los Angeles. With experience in event planning and her knowledge of the industry, Gupta decided to combine the two into a type of party she knows to be a big success. More than that, though, she wanted to bring this type of event to the almond industry not only to provide everyone with a chance to take a breather during harvest but also to support California FFA.
“My brother participated in FFA and it had such a positive impact on his life, helping him grow in so many ways. His experience inspired me to partner with my Leadership classmates in throwing this White Party fundraiser. I’m excited to use my event planning experience to host a great event because I see and believe in not only FFA as a program but also the importance of education for our young people,” Gupta said.
To allow attendees to personally meet members of California FFA, Gupta has invited the Tulare FFA chapter to pull on their blue jackets and host a booth at the entrance to the event. When attendees first arrive, they’ll have the opportunity to stop by the FFA booth to speak with students about their experiences in FFA, what they’ve learned and how it’s prepared them for the future. Because all are invited to attend the White Party – industry and non-industry members, alike – local community members will have the chance to learn what FFA is and hear stories from the students who benefit from this organization. The Almond Board will also have a booth offering industry collateral and information about the Leadership program.
“Our End of Summer White Party fundraiser will bring industry members and the local community together to support ag education, and will give growers and others a chance to breath in the middle of harvest,” Gupta said.
Tickets for the White Party fundraiser may be purchased at calaged.org/AlmondLeadershipProgram. Those interested in being a vendor or sponsoring the event should click here for more information.
