Ignite The Spirit: Igniting the spirit of giving
Youth-based organizations, including FFA, FCCLA, and 4-H clubs across Iowa, participate in Ignite the Spirit each December. Through the program, organizations are equipped with essential resources to fight hunger and food insecurity in their communities during the holiday season.
Participating groups receive four cases of pork loin, insulated grocery totes, recipe booklets, and a monetary grant of $500 to purchase additional meal staples at their local grocery stores. Students then work with hunger-fighting organizations in their communities and develop a project. Many organize community meals or create food baskets for families in need, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
In 2025, a record 151 student organizations in 51 counties participated in Ignite the Spirit. Of the participants, 56 were FFA chapters, 64 were 4-H Clubs, 16 were FCCLA chapters, 11 were other school groups, including Student Council and Special Education classrooms, and four were outside-of-school organizations, including Boy Scouts and church groups. Participation in Ignite the Spirit increased by 49% compared to 2024.
By empowering students to take proactive measures, seek local partnerships and actively contribute to their communities, the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation’s Ignite the Spirit program stands as a beacon in the fight against hunger. Beyond providing essential resources, the program is vital in raising awareness of this critical issue and inspiring a new generation of Iowans to be compassionate and actively engaged in their communities.