$175,000 donated to 30 local projects across 17 states
Wisconsin Channel Seed Pro Keith Gunderson with the River Falls FFA.
St. Louis, MO (February 10, 2025) – Channel® brand has launched a new approach to its Channeling Good initiative, empowering Channel SeedPros to nominate nonprofit organizations in their communities for funding to support local projects. In 2024, the inaugural year of its expanded program, Channel selected 30 projects across 17 states, collectively awarding $175,000 in donations to “channel good” into local farming communities.
The Channeling Good initiative first started in 2021 to support the communities of Mt. Vernon and Lisbon, Iowa, after devastating derecho storms swept through the areas in August 2020. Inspired by the program’s positive effect, the Channel team decided to broaden its scope to make an even greater nationwide impact. By leveraging the local knowledge and connections of Channel SeedPros — exclusive Channel seed professionals who provide leading-edge solutions and a next-level experience to customers — the program ensures that funds reach nonprofits, making meaningful contributions to their communities.
“Service has always been at the heart of everything we do,” said Channel Brand Manager Jenna Maltbie. “We are honored to work with local nonprofit organizations that uplift their communities. Our hope is that these funds create a lasting impact across rural America for generations to come.”
Empowering Channel SeedPros to Drive Community Impact
By empowering Channel SeedPros to nominate organizations in their regions, the Channeling Good initiative ensures funds are directed where they’re needed most. The initial 30 projects represent a diverse range of community efforts, including:
- FFA and 4-H programs, fostering agricultural education and leadership development.
- Agricultural learning centers, expanding facilities and resources for hands-on student experiences.
- First responders, equipping local police and fire departments with essential tools to enhance safety in rural areas.
- Community initiatives, addressing critical needs such as food banks, youth sports programs and accessible recreational facilities.
Real Stories of Channeling Good in Action
One of the Channel brand’s core pillars is staying connected to farmers and the communities where they live and work. Many Channel SeedPros are deeply involved in the organizations they nominated, serving as longtime leaders or volunteers.
Wisconsin Channel SeedPro Keith Gunderson, president of the River Falls FFA Alumni Association, has volunteered with the group since 2014. Gunderson’s nomination earned the organization a $10,000 donation to help expand greenhouse facilities and upgrade equipment for agricultural education at River Falls High School.
“It's wonderful to hear and see the positive impact this organization has had on the FFA students, school district and community,” said Gunderson. “Expanding the greenhouse with updated technology is a crucial step in meeting the growing demand for horticulture and agricultural education among over 100 local FFA members. These updates will give students the space and resources needed to enhance their learning experiences.”
Indiana Channel SeedPro Isaac Pile, a volunteer firefighter paramedic for nearly 30 years, serves his community alongside several of his farmer customers. “Sometimes, I’ll be out visiting farmers for a seed run and a beeper goes off, then we’ll head to a rescue mission together,” Pile explained in his Channeling Good nomination.
Pile identified an urgent need for grain bin rescue equipment and training. Like many rural towns, the Marietta Volunteer Fire Department lacked the resources to adequately respond to such emergencies. Pile’s nomination secured a $10,000 donation to help fund equipment and training for a new countywide grain bin rescue team, ensuring better preparedness that will potentially help save lives.
“Studies show the quicker you get there and get the proper equipment in place, the better the chance of a successful rescue,” Pile noted. “This donation will help us get the training and tools we need to better serve our farmers and our community.”
To learn more about how Channeling Good is making a difference nationwide, visit channelinggood.com.
About Channel
Channel® seed products are designed to perform in local conditions and developed with a rigorous selection process using field-proven, precision-breeding technology to help farmers maximize plant health and yield potential. Channel SeedPros stay connected to their customers and communities, providing leading-edge solutions tailored to their specific needs. These solutions are delivered through a next-level experience to help improve the productivity and profitability of America’s farmers. Additional tools like Matt Bennett Grain Marketing updates and the Agronomy Library provide insights and management tips that can impact farmers and their fields all season long. Based in St. Louis, Channel is a division of Bayer. For additional information, visit www.Channel.com or follow @ChannelSeed on Facebook, Instagram and X.
