Angela Oakman

Though she has been a 4-H volunteer for less than five years, Angela Oakman has already made a big impression on the Washtenaw County 4-H program. As a volunteer for the Hooves and Paws 4-H Club, Oakman empowers club members to run meetings, organize clinics and workshops, and develop community service opportunities. While she is always available to provide support or offer sound advice, Oakman ensures that 4-H’ers take true ownership of the club and its decisions, giving them a real sense of value and of their abilities while building their self-esteem.

Oakman’s can-do, positive attitude and commitment to service have led the club members to develop a remarkable commitment to community service. Members have volunteered and raised money for Food Gatherers in Ann Arbor, Starry Skies Equine Rescue in Ann Arbor, Gleaner’s Food Bank in Detroit, Trinity Church food distribution in Ann Arbor, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospitals, and the Ann Arbor Area Humane Society. Thanks to Oakman’s leadership, members enjoy the experience, learning the power of teamwork and the joy of helping others.

Outside her community club, Oakman has also served as the Washtenaw County hippology coach for the past three years. In this role, she hosts weekly study sessions in her home, brings in equine professionals to teach and work with the team, and continually promotes and recruits new members. Oakman’s club members and teams have done well, some even qualifying for national competitions. She also donates countless hours at the Washtenaw County 4-H Fair, working in the announcer’s box and with the county horse board.