Volume 2 | Issue 6
March 28, 2025
A publication of the National Grange
President Issues Grange Month Challenge by Philip J Vonada
National Grange Communications Director April is just about here, so it’s time to celebrate Grange Month! This year, National Grange President Christine E. Hamp has set an exciting challenge to encourage Grangers nationwide to strengthen their communities while growing their Granges. The Grange Month Challenge is a four-part initiative to foster engagement, service, and advocacy. Follow these steps on how your Grange can take part and make this celebration meaningful:
1. Bring a Friend to the Grange
There’s no better way to strengthen the Grange than by introducing new people to its mission and values. Invite a neighbor, friend, family, or community member to a meeting or event. Share personal stories about how the Grange has made a difference in your life and community. Consider hosting a unique open house, potluck, or social gathering where prospective members can learn about your Grange and its impact on your community in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
2. Start a Community Project and Share It
The heart of the Grange is community service, and this is a great time to launch a new initiative! Whether you’re cleaning up a local park, starting a community garden, or organizing a clothing drive, your project can make a lasting impact. Be sure to share your efforts on social media using #GrangeMonth25 to inspire others and highlight the good work your Grange is doing.
3. Attend a Local Government Meeting
Active and civil civic engagement is key to making a difference. Attend a town hall, school board, or city council meeting and speak up on issues that matter to your community. Encourage fellow Grange members to join you in advocating for policies that support agriculture, rural development, and education. Consider hosting an informational session beforehand to discuss pressing local topics and prepare remarks.
4. Connect Sustenance
with
Project
Food insecurity is a growing concern, and the Grange can be part of the solution. Project Sustenance promotes food security and self-reliance through food drives, community gardens, and educational workshops. Partner with local food banks, farmers, and organizations to provide fresh, nutritious food to those in need. Your Grange could also offer canning or gardening classes to teach self-sufficiency skills that benefit families long-term. You could also consider using Grange Month to open your own “Little Free Food Library” at your Grange Hall or in the community. Project Sustenance is not just about food insecurity, though - also consider projects that could foster self-sustainability and community resilience. By participating in the Grange Month Challenge, your Grange can make a real difference while strengthening bonds with members and the community. Please share your stories, celebrate your successes, and make this April a month of action, connection, and positive change!
In This Issue President issues Grange Month Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Grange Ambassadors shine on Capitol Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 National Grange Appoints “Director of Fun” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 View from the Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Grange Advocacy Playbook . . . . . . . . . 6 PA invites participation in legislative Zoom, virtual food drive . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Grange Spirit Week Guide . . . . . . . . . . 8 Elevating Grange Month: A yearround focus through Community Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 990 E-Postcard Scam Warning . . . . . 10 Grange Store: Grange Socks . . . . . . . 10 Presidents urged to take “Action” this Grange Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Grange Member Benefit: Choice Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Join the
Grange Month Challenge:
• Bring a friend to the Grange – introduce them to your Grange’s mission and family. • Start a community project and share it on social media with #GrangeMonth. • Attend a local government meeting and speak up on an issue that matters to your community. • Connect your Grange to Project Sustenance to battle food insecurity and build communityand self-resilience.
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