In Emmet County, where the ag community is tight-knit and membership numbers are modest, Cale Veurink is proving persistence and personal connections can make a real difference. At 27, the Young Farmer from Petoskey has become a standout volunteer membership writer for Emmet County Farm Bureau, while also serving as the county’s vice president and recently being reelected as an at-large director.
“I guess I don’t really know how it started,” Cale said with a laugh and a somewhat bashful tip of his head. “I’m kind of good at talking to people, and I enjoy Farm Bureau and everything it has to offer. It’s given a lot to me, so I just try to highlight that to people who are thinking about joining.”
Farming alongside his father, Cale raises beef cattle and has expanded into row crops since returning home from college.
“When I came back, I started doing a lot of cash cropping and gained more acres,” he said. “I also do some concrete masonry work with friends when we’re not busy on the farm.”
His Farm Bureau journey began in 2021, when Presque Isle County President Christian Tollini introduced him to the organization.
Despite the challenges of working in a county with limited membership growth opportunities, Cale has excelled. He credits his success to simply listening to members.
“The big thing is highlighting what Farm Bureau can do for you — whether it’s events like this or people who can help point you in the right direction,” he said.
Cale’s membership efforts complement the work of area Farm Bureau Insurance agent Megan Nothelfer. Both earned Key Society recognition at the Sept. 10 Emmet County Farm Bureau annual meeting. The Key Society recognizes volunteers who write at least five new regular members within the membership year.
Cale also received a Harvest League award, earned when a volunteer combines new and renewed memberships written during the campaign year to reach five or more.
“Cale is always willing and able to help start the conversation with new and prospective members,” said Lori Schiech-Givens, Emmet’s administrative manager. “He helps answer their questions and provides relevant details to express the applicable things Farm Bureau does that could directly affect and support their farms and operations.”
“When someone expresses interest in Farm Bureau, I usually start by saying, ‘Hey, I heard you’re interested in our organization. Do you have a minute to chat? I can answer any questions you have,’” Cale explained. “A lot of people are busy, so knowing there’s an organization that keeps you involved and informed is usually the big hook.”
Cale’s dedication as a volunteer membership writer, his leadership on the board of director, and his easy-going style are certain to continue to be a great asset to both Emmet County and Michigan Farm Bureaus.
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