Michigan 4-H Foundation

From showing her first calf in Hillsdale County 4-H to becoming a published author, professional speaker and business owner, Michele Payn's 4-H journey helped shape the skills and confidence she uses every day.

Through experiences like 4-H Exploration Days, leadership opportunities and lifelong friendships, Michele discovered just how much was possible through Michigan 4-H.

Stories like Michele's are made possible through the support of donors who help young people grow, learn and become Beyond Ready for whatever comes next.

How has 4-H made a difference in your life? Share your 4-H Beyond Ready story at tinyurl.com/4xdbmnv7.

Michele Payn's 4-H career started in Hillsdale County with her first calf, Bambi — who was a stubborn as she was loved. Over time, Michigan 4-H helped Michele to grow her dairy herd, her love of telling people about agriculture and her perseverance. Today, she uses those skills to bridge the divide between farm and food as a published author, professional speaker and owner of her own business, Cause Matters Corp.

"4-H provided opportunities for a dairy girl to expand her horizons," said Michele. "The triumphs and trials of showing my beloved Holsteins stands out as the greatest life classroom. I remember the thrill of the National 4-H Conference, competing at Dairy Days at MSU, connecting over card games at Washington Citizenship, learning about the world through exchange students, making friends at 4-H Exploration Days, and having so much fun at the Hillsdale County Fair because Michigan 4-H allows young people to discover they can do more than they believe is possible."

How has 4-H made a difference in your life? Share your 4-H Beyond Ready story at tinyurl.com/4xdbmnv7.

Whether you participated in 4-H as a youth, volunteered your time, supported a family member’s projects or simply believe in the power of positive youth development, the Michigan 4-H Alumni & Friends Network is a great way to stay connected. Join this free network to receive updates, learn about opportunities to support Michigan 4-H youth and programs, and connect with others who share a passion for helping young people thrive.

The Michigan 4-H Foundation is grateful for the alumni, donors, volunteers and friends whose support helps create life-changing opportunities for 4-H youth across the state. Join today and stay connected by the clover!
Please visit: extension.msu.edu/Michigan4HA&F to get connected.

Jennifer Colvin's 4-H journey began as a young member in Iosco County, where hands-on learning and leadership opportunities helped shape her future. Today, she is inspiring the next generation of 4-H youth as an MSU Extension 4-H program coordinator, helping others discover their own passions and potential.

Stories like Jennifer's are possible because of the generous Michigan 4-H Foundation supporters who invest in Michigan 4-H. Thank you for helping provide experiences that prepare young people to be Beyond Ready for whatever comes next.

Share your own 4-H Beyond Ready story at tinyurl.com/4xdbmnv7

Growing up in Iosco County 4-H, Jennifer Colvin enjoyed lamb and small animal projects, sparking a passion for agriculture that continues to this day. Now, Jennifer is helping future generations to find their own spark by leading the Iosco County 4-H program as their MSU Extension 4-H program coordinator.

"4-H made me beyond ready by giving me hands-on experiences that shaped both my work ethic and my passion," said Jennifer. "Through my projects, I learned responsibility, leadership and the value of showing up consistently — not just when it was easy. Those early lessons carried me through my education and prepared me for my career."

Share your own 4-H Beyond Ready story with us at tinyurl.com/4xdbmnv7.