Bloom for Good Take the Fatigue Out of FFA Fundraising

Say the word “fundraiser,” and many ag teachers likely picture chaos, programs of activities, boxes of (sometimes) questionable fruit, endless spreadsheets, deposits to track, and phone calls from unhappy supporters. For many FFA advisors, the word itself can trigger memories of late nights and logistical nightmares.

Enter Bloom for Good, a company that’s reimagining how agricultural programs raise money — and how they connect purpose to progress.

AGDAILY sat down with Melissa Rosenbusch-Spicer, vice president of agricultural sales at Bloom for Good, to talk about how her nearly three decades as an ag teacher shaped her approach to fundraising, what sets Bloom apart, and what advice she has for educators trying to balance it all.

Rosenbusch-Spicer spent 29 years teaching agriculture in Texas before stepping into her role at Bloom for Good.

“I actually left the classroom a little earlier than expected due to some health issues,” she shared. “But it’s been incredible to stay connected to ag education — just from a different angle.”

Founded by Pete Hexter, a former sports licensing entrepreneur, Bloom began as a simple school fundraising concept. When Rosenbusch-Spicer and her daughter, Mikaela — now Bloom’s National FFA and 4-H sales manager — joined the team, the mission evolved into something deeper.

“Pete had built successful businesses his whole life,” Rosenbusch-Spicer said. “But when he attended his first National FFA Convention, he knew this was where he wanted to invest his energy. That’s when Bloom for Good was born — because he wanted to do something meaningful in his later years.”

A fundraising model designed for ag teachers, by ag teachers

If there’s one thing Rosenbusch-Spicer understands, it’s how little time ag teachers have.

“Fundraising fatigue is real,” she said. “Not just for the community, but for teachers and students, too. You’re managing projects, travel, contests, and classes. The last thing you need is to chase payments or organize deliveries.”

Bloom’s fundraising programs are designed to eliminate those headaches. Each fundraiser is turnkey — meaning Bloom handles the setup, design, fulfillment, and customer service. “All the teacher has to do is promote it,” she said. “We take care of the rest.”

The company’s most recognizable fundraiser? Socks. But not just any socks — custom, American-made designs that support FFA chapters, 4-H clubs, and other youth organizations.

“We like to think outside the box — or maybe inside the sock,” Rosenbusch-Spicer joked. “Teachers can use socks as fundraisers, chapter awards, or even gifts for officer teams and star members. It’s all about creativity.”

Rosenbusch-Spicer notes that today’s students and teachers live in a digital world.

“After COVID, everything changed. We had to find ways to reach students where they already are … on their phones,” she explained.

Bloom now provides pre-made social media content, Reels, and TikToks that students can share to promote their fundraisers. “We want to make it easy, fun, and engaging. Fundraising shouldn’t feel like a chore, it should feel like an opportunity.”

And with school policies increasingly limiting phone use, Rosenbusch-Spicer says Bloom has adjusted. “We’re flexible. Every state and school has different rules, and we build programs that work within those boundaries.”

With tightening school budgets, especially in agricultural programs, Rosenbusch-Spicer stresses that fundraising isn’t optional, it’s essential. “Travel costs, hotel rooms, contest fees, even meals — they’ve all gone up,” she said. “Many ag programs don’t receive enough funding from their schools. Fundraising fills those gaps, and more importantly, it gives students ownership in their experiences.” One of Bloom’s most popular tools is its digital discount card, which helps FFA chapters raise money while giving supporters access to savings on food, travel, and lodging. “It’s a fundraiser that gives back in multiple ways,” she said. “It’s practical — and it supports students where they need it most.”

Tips for new FFA advisors

Rosenbusch-Spicer offers this advice for new ag teachers navigating the chaos of fundraising and chapter management:

1. Start Simple. “Don’t create a monster you can’t feed,” she cautioned. “You don’t have to run the biggest fundraiser right away. Start small, find your rhythm, and grow from there.”
2. Protect Your Time. “Your health and your family matter. It’s easy to pour everything into your program, but you have to take care of yourself, too.”
3. Plan Around Your Calendar. “Know your busy seasons. Don’t launch fundraisers during major livestock shows or state contests.”
4. Make It Meaningful. “Students today want to know why they’re doing something. Connect the fundraiser to real goals — like traveling to convention or paying for jackets. That ownership builds pride.”
5. Use Your Network. “Reach out to companies like Bloom or mentors in your state association. You’re not in this alone.”

Rosenbusch-Spicer believes fundraising is about more than money — it’s about growth. “We’re not just selling socks or discounts,” she said. “We’re investing in the next generation of leaders. Every dollar helps a student step into their future.”

Bloom’s mission says it best: For Communities. For Causes. For the Future.

“FFA and ag education changed my life,” Rosenbusch-Spicer said. “Now I get to help teachers and students focus on what matters most — learning, leading, and growing. That’s what Bloom for Good is all about.”

Heidi Crnkovic, is the Associate Editor for AGDAILY. She is a New Mexico native with deep-seated roots in the Southwest and a passion for all things agriculture.