Northwest Farm Credit Services lauded for breast cancer efforts

SPOKANE - Northwest Farm Credit Services, which serves the agricultural community financially, has received the 2015 Farm Credit Council Phelps-Martin Award for humanitarian service to the non-agricultural community.

The award was presented to Northwest FCS for the creation of the "Pink Tractor" campaign to fight breast cancer. It is given to a farm credit organization each year to recognize efforts made to enhance the quality of life in rural communities and support of charitable organizations.

Breast cancer has touched many Northwest FCS employees and customers, NWFCS publicist Jennifer Rohrer said. Northwest FCS employees bring the Pink Tractor to community events, customer appreciation days, agriculture shows and cancer races. The Pink Tractor has been at nearly 50 events throughout Washington, Oregon, Montana and Idaho, raising thousands of dollars that are donated to breast cancer research organizations.

"The fact that Northwest FCS customers and employees would dedicate the time and effort to share a very true sign of agriculture in support of breast cancer awareness and research is something that shows the connection that each of us feels towards this disease," Northwest FCS board chair and farmer Karen Schott said.

"Since the tractor was created, many individuals in rural communities have been diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. Their bravery has been an inspiration, and Northwest FCS is there to join in the fight."

Phil DiPofi, president and CEO of Northwest Farm Credit Services, added: "I am proud that our employees, customers and rural community members are impacted by the spirit the tractor brings to the communities it travels too. The stories we hear, the people the tractor inspires, and the donations we have earned to fight cancer are truly an inspiration to me and our team at Northwest FCS."

Northwest FCS was awarded $1,000 at the Farm Credit Council in San Francisco. Northwest FCS representatives sold Pink Tractor T-shirts and other gear at the meeting and raised an additional $10,000. All funds will be donated to the American Cancer Society.