Culver’s restaurants across 24 states continue to build support for American agriculture as part of the chain’s Thank You Farmers program. Since its inception in 2013 over a million dollars has been raised in support of the National FFA Organization, local FFA chapters and a variety of other agricultural organizations.

Culver’s remains committed to sourcing the finest ingredients America’s family growers have to offer. The restaurant chain has turned its gratitude into full-fledged support of today’s farm families, while providing financial support to those young people wishing to pursue a career in agriculture.

In 2016, over $360,000 was raised for local FFA chapters, the National FFA Foundation and other agricultural organizations across the country. Included is over $31,000 for the Blue Jacket program, where Culver’s sponsors the cost of purchasing FFA jackets for members who otherwise wouldn’t be able to own this special attire. In addition, following the passing of Culver’s President and CEO Phil Keiser last fall, $25,000 was contributed in his name for an FFA endowment scholarship.

“We’re proud to see the enthusiasm with which our franchisees and guests have supported Thank You Farmers,” said Jessie Corning, senior marketing manager and member of the National FFA Foundation Sponsors’ board of directors. “We recognize the hard work and dedication of farm families and building awareness of the critical role agriculture has in our lives.”

As the Thank You Farmers program enters its fifth year, Culver’s will be involved in fundraising opportunities during National FFA week beginning Feb. 18. Included is the annual essay contest where FFA chapters have the chance to win money toward a trip to the 2017 National FFA Convention & Expo. Culver’s will also be signing up restaurants to sponsor additional FFA jackets.