Supporting the communities where we live and work is as important as our efforts on the land. Our commitment extends beyond operations and conservation to help foster the next generation of good stewards through education and research.
Lykes has a long history of engaging young people in agriculture through hands-on learning and mentorship. In Highlands County, we support Ag-Venture, an agricultural education experience for elementary students. Serving about 1,400 students each year, students have the opportunity to explore a variety of industries, from beef and dairy to bees, poultry, and horticulture.
We also financially support and volunteer at the Highlands, Glades and Okeechobee County Youth Livestock Shows, helping students raise and sell livestock. Young people learn animal responsibility, discipline, and the value of supporting our community.
Lykes supports Moore Haven High School graduates through a $12,000 annual valedictorian scholarship. We also contribute to local education foundations to encourage academic achievement and career exploration.
Lykes honors the legacy of long-serving employees through endowments that strengthen research and education.
The Joe Collins Fund provides scholarships for post-secondary education opportunities to students in Highlands and Glades County, Florida, and provides financial support for community endeavors that involve youth interested in agriculture and engineering, such as the Highlands County Junior Livestock Show, Glades County Livestock Show, Glades Education Foundation, and UF College of Agriculture.
Homer Mills was a stalwart conservationist of cultural resources in the Big Bend Region. He loved the science of archaeology, and frequently contributed his knowledge, passion, land access, and financial support to the Center for Big Bend Studies. The Homer Mills Research Fund was established to honor Homer’s passion, preserve his legacy, and foster his keen sense of wonder and enthusiasm in students.
