Unique. Innovative. Forward-thinking. Creative. Resourceful.

These are all terms that describe today’s dairy producers and the dairy industry. As a dairy farmer and chair of Dairy’s Foundation board of directors, I believe these same descriptions also apply to the many organizations developing programs to share dairy’s story with students and adult community members across the country.

For more than two decades, Dairy’s Foundation has raised funds and awarded grants to support educational and sustainability initiatives for the dairy industry and those impacted by it. As the only public-held national foundation supporting dairy education and initiatives across the entire dairy industry food chain, our local grant program invites organizations around the country to apply for grants to fund critical educational and outreach programs.

It's exciting to see how these grants are being used in creative ways to meet each organization’s needs and audiences, all with the goal of strengthening the bond between consumers and dairy producers.

Waukesha museum showcases dairy production and education

The Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum in Waukesha, Wisconsin, located on the western edge of Milwaukee, received funding to help develop a “Cow to Carton” display as part of their Agricultural Legacies of Waukesha County exhibit. The exhibit features signage and interactive features to tell the story of modern dairy production from the farm to consumers’ tables.

It includes a barn with a life-sized dairy cow where guests can learn about animal care, farm toys and a shopping area with replicas of dairy products and ice cream, milk and yogurt containers. A kiosk shows videos of the entire dairy production process from the farm to transportation to processing.

“The interactive elements of the exhibit are so important to tie the story together,” says Nicki Ciurro, executive director of the Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum. “The exhibit is designed to be intergenerational, so guests of all ages can explore and play together, then continue to have conversations later about what they learned.”

The exhibit will also include an oral history project to capture the personal stories of area residents involved in the dairy industry.

The display opened in June 2024. In addition, museum staff has developed a kit of materials that can be taken to local schools, county fairs and other events.

Mable the dairy cow inspires children through animal care and STEM

Nearly 370 miles to the south, Dr. Genie’s Kids was awarded a grant to develop an interactive toy that introduces young children to animal care and veterinary careers. The St. Louis, Missouri-based organization created Mable the Dairy Cow as part of the Little Medical School collection of imaginative animal care kits called “Vetopia.” The Little Medical School is focused on inspiring children to see themselves in healthcare and STEM-related roles using interactive programs, activities and educational materials.

The Mable the Dairy Cow kit includes a plush cow in a habitat carry case, two milk bottles and a caddy, and a two-sided veterinarian exam form that teaches children what to look for in a healthy cow. The kit also transforms into a play mat for fun on the go.

“We’ve found that talking about animal care and veterinary careers is a great way to introduce STEM concepts to students who may not be interested in coding, robotics or some of the other areas most typically associated with STEM programs,” says Dr. Mary Mason, founder of Little Medical School. “For some students, it may spark an interest in the animal or veterinary fields, but it is also important for everyone to have an appreciation of how animals are cared for and know more about the milk they drink.”

The kits are used in Little Medical School programming around the country, donated to local organizations such as hospitals, not-for-profits, community centers and schools to add to their programs, and are also available for retail purchase.

Developed to spark an early interest in children in dairy cattle, the Mable the Dairy Cow kit includes a plush cow in a carrying case, two milk bottles and a caddy, as well as a two-sided veterinarian exam form that teaches children what to look for in healthy cows. The kit also transforms into a play mat for fun on the go. Photo courtesy of Professional Dairy Producers.

Tennessee FFA provides future dairy leaders with hands-on training and big opportunities

With an older student demographic in mind, the Tennessee FFA Foundation received grant funding in August 2023 to support its Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management Career Development Event. The program’s goal was to provide hands-on experience to students enrolled in agricultural education interested in dairy cattle to prepare them for industry positions, manage a modern dairy herd and be ambassadors in their communities for the dairy industry.

Youth participating in this contest developed skills in observation, analysis, communication and team collaboration. This contest was open to any Tennessee FFA member aged 12 to 21. Participation in the contest increased from 44 FFA members in 2022 to 162 members in 2023 and grew even further in 2024.

Members spent many hours preparing for the contest, learning about dairy characteristics, evaluating dairy cattle type and production records, and understanding effective, sustainable dairy herd management.

“[....] FFA members are the future producers and consumers of our nation,” says Marisa Hughes, director of development for the Tennessee FFA Foundation. “Contests such as the Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management Career Development Event are unparalleled investments in the next generation. This contest builds their skills, grows trust and strengthens the dairy community. Students are recognized for the contributions they are making to the dairy industry by educating themselves and their communities.”

Grant funding through Dairy’s Foundation is available to support dairy education programs around the country. There are two grant cycles each year, with annual deadlines of June 1 and Dec. 1. Interested organizations may apply for a grant of up to $10,000 and can learn more and apply at the foundation's website.

Brian Forrest is the owner and manager of Maple Ridge Dairy near Stratford, Wisconsin. He currently serves as board chair of Dairy’s Foundation, previously served in a leadership role for Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) and is a long-time supporter of the foundation’s Two Cents for Tomorrow program.

The Dairy’s Foundation was established by Professional Dairy Producers in 2002 as a way to raise funds and award grants for educational programs. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) entity. For information on programs funded and ways to donate, visit us online.