Investing in the Future: First South Farm Credit Supports Alabama Council of Cooperatives’ Couples Conference

First South Farm Credit proudly continues its support of the Alabama Council of Cooperatives’ annual Couples Conference—an event that brings together young and beginning farmers to learn, connect, and grow through the power of cooperative relationships.

For First South, the conference is more than just a sponsorship opportunity—it’s a chance to invest in the future of agriculture and the people who make it thrive. The organization sees this gathering as a platform for educating couples about the cooperative model and fostering a sense of community among agricultural professionals.

Maria Singleton, First South loan officer, emphasized the personal and professional value of the event. “Supporting the Couples Conference is important so that individuals not only understand what a cooperative is, but also the many benefits they receive as members,” she said. “The Conference is important to me personally because I work for one; it’s my livelihood. It just so happens that I get to build great relationships with other cooperative employees and members along the way.”

Her words reflect the deep-rooted commitment First South has to both education and relationship-building within the agricultural community.

That spirit of connection and education was echoed by Brandon Simpson, who now serves in the board position once held by the late Harold Kilpatrick—a respected figure in Alabama’s cooperative community. Simpson highlighted the long-term impact of the conference, particularly in shaping future leaders. 

“This conference educates the next generation of leaders on the importance cooperatives play in society,” he said. “Seeing couples learn for the first time why cooperatives are different from for-profit companies gives hope for future generations.” 

As first-generation farmers, the Max and Leslie Gaylor arrived with limited knowledge of cooperatives but left feeling supported. 

“I didn’t know what a cooperative was or how much it helped people like us,” Max admitted. For Leslie, the experience was eye-opening. “It was an awesome experience to be asked to attend this conference,” said Leslie. “Not only did we learn about each cooperative and their roles, but we now knowing how much First South is behind us in our farm life in every way. When we are successful, they are successful.”

In recognition of their enthusiasm and growth, the Gaylors were honored with the Samuel Harold Kilpatrick Award and will return as the 2026 Host Couple. 

Parker and Elizabeth Allen also found the conference to be a valuable experience. “It was very interesting learning about cooperatives, especially in our area,” they shared. “Networking, forming new friendships, and the great fellowship are a few takeaways from our experience. The location was definitely a bonus!” 

Whether it’s the friendships formed, the knowledge gained, or the inspiration sparked, the Couples Conference continues to be a meaningful event for all involved. 

As Maria Singleton noted, “More often than not, the couples in attendance don’t know each other at the beginning of the conference, but by the end, they’re swapping contact information and helping each other grow their farming operations.” 

Through its continued support, First South Farm Credit is helping to cultivate community, leadership, and a stronger future for agriculture in Alabama and beyond.