Staff writer
John Hajek of Tampa is the most recent Marion County winner in Monsanto’s America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, which gives farmers the opportunity to win $2,500 for their favorite local nonprofit organizations.
Hajek received the award March 16 in a public presentation at Tampa. He stipulated that the money be used by the city of Tampa for the community center.
According to Hajek’s wife, Carla, they each applied online to be entered into a drawing for the award.
Hajek said he is excited to have been selected as the winner for Marion County.
“The program is a great idea,” he said. “I’m glad I can help out the City of Tampa.”
“I think it’s awesome that John chose us and that Monsanto Fund is doing this program,” mayor Tim Svoboda said. “More companies should give back to communities. The money will certainly go to good use.”
The city is planning to repaint the interior of the community building, repair cracks in walls, refurbish cabinets, and replace a broken window.
“I’m sure there will be a lot of volunteer work done,” Carla Hajek said.
The community center is home to Christmas parties, farmers’ markets in the summer, anniversaries, family reunions, cooperative annual meetings, and other activities.
“If it’s a somewhat sizable meeting, it will be here,” Svoboda said.
Warren Unruh of Hillsboro won the $2,500 grant for Marion County in 2010. He donated the money to the Hillsboro FFA chapter.
Monsanto, a multi-national corporation that produces seeds and chemicals, expects to invest more than $3 million in small communities through ongoing yearly programs.