The Michigan Milk Producers Association is a legacy partner with Michigan 4-H Youth Development. Since 1935, educating young people about the dairy industry has been a major priority for the Association evidenced by their premier support of the 4-H Milk Marketing tour that MMPA continues to sponsor and host today – more than 80 years later.

MMPA has also provided annual financial support to the Michigan 4-H Foundation for delivery of statewide 4-H dairy science programs contributing in excess of $186,000 to support such activities as 4-H Dairy Days, the annual 4-H Dairy Conference and ongoing 4-H dairy science education in communities throughout Michigan. Their support has helped to reach more than 5,000 youth each year through 4-H dairy programs.

Two Michigan Milk Producers Association leaders who have served as trustees have gone on to lead as presidents of the Michigan 4-H Foundation – Jack W. Barnes from 1978 to 1980 and today, Sheila Burkhardt from 2014 to 2016. Their advocacy has built support partnerships for 4-H with other dairy industry leaders such as the United Dairy Industries of Michigan, Land O’ Lakes Foundation and Northstar Cooperative, Inc.

In this, Michigan Milk Producers Association’s centennial anniversary year, it seems very appropriate to honor their legacy commitment to advancing youth dairy science education through their ongoing gifts of talent and treasure to support Michigan 4-H Youth Development programs.