The Nebraska FFA Foundation will inaugurate its "Gary Scharf Helping Hand Award'' at the April 2 evening session of the Nebraska State FFA Convention in Lincoln.

   The award annually will recognize a Nebraska agricultural instructor/FFA adviser who personifies school and community citizenship and service.

   People who knew Gary Scharf said those are the qualities he embodied. He was killed in the Von Maur shootings Dec. 5, 2007.

   Scharf grew up on a family farm outside Curtis, Neb., and worked in the agricultural chemical industry. He made significant contributions to Nebraska's agricultural and FFA community through his years of service on the Nebraska FFA Foundation board.

   Those who served with him recall that he was genuinely interested in people and always willing to help.

   Tammy Meyer, Nebraska FFA Foundation executive director, said Scharf led by example.

   "We felt this award was an appropriate way to keep his legacy alive while recognizing those agriculture teachers who contribute so much to their schools and communities outside of agricultural education and FFA,'' Meyer said. "We're excited to present this honor in recognition of a man who exemplified the best in humanity.''

   To be considered for the award, agriculture teachers can be nominated by students, colleagues, school officials, parents or others in the community.

   Nomination applications are available at www.neffafoundation.org or by e-mailing information(at)neffafoundation.org. Applications will be accepted through Friday. The winning agriculture teacher will be recognized with a plaque and $500 cash award.