“From those who steadily coax crops from the soil to those who shape the ground beneath our feet, thank you. Thank you for feeding our families. Thank you for building our pathways, playgrounds and parks. Every time you plow or plant, you move our communities toward their potential. Every time you dig deep or build up, you move our cities toward their future. Every time you trace the lines of our hopes into hillsides, plains and valleys, you move our nation toward its dreams. Thatís why Kubota Tractor Corporation pledges its philanthropic support to those who move the earth. Because you move us all.”
– Kubota Tractor Corporation
These words demonstrate the heart of Kubota Tractor Corporation’s philanthropic endeavors and their commitment to help power and empower those who move the earth.
“Geared to Give”
Kubota Tractor Corporation, in partnership with Farmer Veteran Coalition, established the “Geared to Give” program in March 2015 to provide financial support and donated equipment to U.S. military veterans pursuing careers in agriculture. To date, six tractors have been donated (two in Iowa) with the most recent one awarded August 30 at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa.
“At Kubota we have been very blessed as a company,” said Steven Davies, Kubota regional sales manager. “So we are thrilled to support veterans who farm through our ‘Geared to Give’ program.”
During a special ceremony, Kubota presented Iowa farmer Aaron White with the keys to a Kubota L-Series compact tractor in recognition of his service with the U.S. Marine Corps and for his dedication to farming. The 5th grade teacher and father of three served two tours with the U.S. Marine Corps in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
“Farmer veterans like Aaron have earned the right to a little help,” said Todd Stucke, Kubota senior vice president of sales, marketing and product support. “They have proudly given back to this country through their military service to protect our way of life, and here at Kubota we are proud to help Aaron continue to make a difference in his community by farming in Iowa for many years to come.”
Aaron and his wife, Dana, own and operate White Stock & Produce in Carlisle, Iowa, where they manage 150 acres of row crops, a cow-calf operation, and a small garden plot. The White’s, who sell their beef and produce at local farmers’ markets under the Homegrown by Heroes label, expect the new tractor to provide a major boost to their operation.
The second generation farmer was at a loss for words when he first learned that he was selected to receive the tractor. “I’m just so grateful that I was chosen. There are so many things this tractor will help me accomplish within my operation,” said Aaron. “This is fantastic!”
Davies had the privilege and joy of delivering the tractor to Aaron and his family. “Part of my responsibility is making sure the tractor fits Aaron’s needs and that he has the attachments he needs to help with his operation,” stated Davies. “It was an absolute joy delivering the tractor to Aaron. I look forward to seeing what he does with it.”
Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Distributor (I-NED) member Capital City Equipment, White’s authorized Kubota dealer in Des Moines, Iowa, provided the tractor. “We are proud to be a part of this meaningful donation to such a worthy recipient,” said Mark Kruse, owner. “We look forward to supporting Aaron’s continued dedication to farming in our community.”
In addition to the “Geared to Give” program, Kubota Tractor Corporation provides philanthropic support through equipment and/or funding to the following organizations and programs:
National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization prepares future generations for the challenges of feeding a growing population. Through Kubota’s financial support, FFA is helping to ensure a bright future for the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Young Farmer & Rancher Award Program
The Young Farmer & Rancher Award Program provides leadership opportunities and resources that support young farmers, ranchers and agriculture professionals as they develop into the industry’s future leaders. Each year Kubota donates 250 hours of free tractor use to outstanding young farmers in select states to help them continue pursuing their dreams.
Progressive Agriculture Foundation – Safety Days Program
Kubota provides financial sponsorship and support to the Progressive Agriculture Foundation and their mission to provide education and training to make farm, ranch and rural life safer and healthier for children and their families. Each year, the Progressive Agriculture Safety Days program reaches more than 80,000 children and adults across the country with hands-on safety training.