Hometown Roots winners support local communities with charitable donations
Agriculture plays an important role in connecting people, supporting local economies, and strengthening rural communities. The 2026 Hometown Roots Contest highlighted these contributions by recognizing Kari DeMoss of Iowa and Stephanie Fossum of South Dakota for their inspiring stories and commitment to their communities.
Presented by Lallemand Plant Care, the annual contest celebrates individuals whose experiences reflect the values of agriculture and rural life. The program also helps support local organizations by providing donations selected by the contest winners.
This year's winners each received a $5,000 donation to direct toward a community organization that aligns with their commitment to service and agricultural outreach.
Kari DeMoss earned recognition for a photograph that captured a meaningful moment between generations on a family farm. Raised in an agricultural environment, she emphasized how farming knowledge, values, and traditions are passed from parents and grandparents to younger generations. Her entry reflected the importance of preserving agricultural heritage and maintaining strong family connections.
DeMoss chose Newell Library Friends as the recipient of her donation. She believes libraries are essential resources in rural communities because they provide access to educational materials, programs, and services for children, families, and lifelong learners. The donation will help support continued growth and learning opportunities within the community.
The second winner, Stephanie Fossum, has been involved in agriculture throughout her life. Growing up on a dairy farm and now helping operate a farm with her husband, she remains deeply connected to the industry. Their operation includes crop production and a cow-calf enterprise, giving her firsthand experience with the challenges and rewards of farming.
Fossum selected State 4-H Leaders of South Dakota to receive her $5,000 donation. The organization supports youth through scholarships, grants, leadership programs, and educational opportunities designed to build agricultural knowledge and leadership skills.
She believes supporting young people today will help create a stronger agricultural industry tomorrow. Through her donation, Fossum hopes to encourage more youth participation in agriculture while helping future leaders gain valuable experiences and skills.
"The Hometown Roots Contest is about celebrating the people who make rural communities special and helping them give back in meaningful ways. We're proud that Kari and Stephanie's winning entries will help support their local communities and create opportunities for the next generation," said Anne Favre, Strategic Marketing Director of USA & Canada, Lallemand Plant Care.
Since its launch in 2021, the program has recognized 34 winners and awarded substantial funding to organizations throughout Canada and the United States. These donations have supported community initiatives focused on education, outreach, youth development, and local engagement.
The 2026 contest encouraged participants to share stories and photographs showing how agriculture shapes their lives and communities. The entries submitted by DeMoss and Fossum stood out for their ability to illustrate the lasting connections between agriculture, family values, and community support.
Their stories reflect a common theme found throughout rural America: agriculture is strongest when communities work together. Whether supporting a local library or investing in youth leadership programs, both winners chose organizations that provide long-term benefits to their communities.
As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, programs like the Hometown Roots Contest help recognize the people who contribute to its success. Through their dedication and generosity, Kari DeMoss and Stephanie Fossum demonstrate how agricultural leadership can create a positive impact both on and off the farm, ensuring stronger communities and a brighter future for the next generation.
Photo Credit: Lallemand Plant Care