The Illinois Pork Producers Association is currently looking for volunteer groups, FFA chapters, school activity organizations, and community groups to help staff the popular Pork Patio during the upcoming Illinois State Fair.
According to the organization, several volunteer opportunities are still available throughout the fair. Volunteer shifts run from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Illinois Pork says they are seeking up to 10 volunteers per shift depending on the date.
As part of the opportunity, participating groups can earn donations of up to $300 for their organization based on the number of volunteers working each shift. Illinois Pork says the program is designed to support youth organizations, agriculture programs, and community groups while helping showcase Illinois pork products to fairgoers.
Volunteer participants must be high school age or older. In addition to supporting the pork industry and Illinois agriculture, volunteers will also receive free admission to the Illinois State Fair and enjoy pork meals during their shift.
The Pork Patio has long been a favorite stop during the Illinois State Fair, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy pork meals while learning more about pork production, pig farming, and the farmers who help raise pork in Illinois. Events like this continue to strengthen the connection between consumers, youth agriculture organizations, and pork producers across the Midwest.
Illinois Pork encourages any interested volunteer groups to contact the organization directly through social media messaging for scheduling information and available dates.
For pork producers, FFA students, and agricultural organizations, the opportunity provides another way to support the pork industry while helping educate fair attendees about modern pork production and the importance of agriculture in Illinois.