Many thousands of rural young people have belonged to Junior Farmers clubs since their beginnings in 1914. Who were these members? Who participated in each county? Which past members have used their Junior Farmer training and opportunities to help them become outstanding citizens and leaders?

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food kept records of many program details, but did not keep specific records of those members who graduated from their Junior Farmer experiences. In 2002, JFAO and its staff started to collect data on who was a past member in an effort to get in touch with these individuals. With this data being put onto a computer, the Alumni Database came into being.

Why find past Junior Farmer members? How can we know that the programming of Junior Farmers was successful? By knowing that they have made a positive difference in their communities and beyond, we can see the proof.

In 2008, a renewed effort was started to find more past members of Junior Farmers. Using donated documents naming former Provincial Directors, Leadership Camp delegates and Exchange Trip winners, a spreadsheet of formerly active members was created. In comparing this data of provincially active members to the existing Alumni database, most former members were found missing and their whereabouts and accomplishments were unknown.

How having a list of Alumni can help Junior Farmers today:

-Lets future generations know who once were active members.

-Allows JFAO to keep in touch with its past, by distributing its quarterly newsletter, the Bullhorn, to Alumni.

-As a charity, JFAO is able to offer tax receipts for donations to its funding.

-Former members are kept informed that Junior Farmers still exists and that they can encourage their children and grandchildren to join.

-Assists clubs to connect with their past members for events like reunions, etc.

-Gives the Archiving Committee a source of contacts to help collect historical memorabilia.

Several mailing campaigns have occurred, requesting help in locating former members. The success of these efforts has helped JFAO and the Archive Committee find many Alumni, but there are still many more who have not been found. If you feel that you could help us find these former Junior Farmers or others in your area, please contact us through email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone the JFAO office at 519-780-5326.