Marci René Charest

County: Ingham
Class Years: 2013-14
Title:

“My goal as a 4-H volunteer leader is to help the youth that I work
with achieve greater self-confidence, self-responsibility, learn new life
skills and help them strive to reach their full potential. My greatest
reward in this role has been watching these youth apply, to their own
real-world experiences, the skills and knowledge I’ve been able to help
them learn.”

Marci Charest has served as the Ingham County 4-H Horse Judging Team coach for the past five years. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to 4-H with her background in animal science and farm management experience at Michigan State University’s former Merilatt Equestrian Center. In addition to her role with horse judging, she has also served Ingham County 4-H as clerk to the 4-H horse superintendent and has also served part-time in a foods and nutrition 4-H after school project delivered to Lansing School District students. Charest works year-round to ensure that the youth involved in 4-H horse judging are well prepared for their contest in April at the Michigan 4-H Equine Educational Expo. Through the experience, the members gain teamwork, leadership and communication skills. Charest also takes advantage of volunteer training opportunities, participating in 4-H volunteer workshops at Kettunen Center, the Michigan 4-H Volunteer Forum and in MILLEAD, a pilot project conducted by MSU Extension for 4-H horse volunteers.

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Bridget Paidl, Menominee County

Through 4-H, I have become the person I am today. Not only has it made me who I am, but has given me lifelong friendships and leaders to look up to. 4-H and everyone I have met through 4-H has fostered my passion for animals and led me to the path I am considering for my future.

— Bridget Paidl, Menominee County

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2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award Winners

he Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes 4-H volunteers who exhibit excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership in agriculture-related areas. 2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award winners pictured include Robert Richards (left) and Jennifer Specht (right). Click on the button below to view all of the 2024 4-H Legacy Award winners!