/ MFB / Melanie Barnes
“The greatest reward as a 4-H volunteer is the kids. There is no greater reward than helping and watching them learn and accomplish things they didn’t even think possible.”
Since the beginning of her involvement with the 4-H program in Iosco County in 2006, Melanie Barnes has worked diligently to help local 4-H members gain skills in their project areas as well as for themselves. She worked with the 4-H Horse Program to establish a local 4-H Educational Camp to allow members to expand their horsemanship and showmanship skills, as well as leadership and teamwork skills. In addition to her guidance with the horse project area, Melanie is also a 4-H Livestock Club volunteer.
She has been instrumental in establishing youth leadership positions for members, such as a 4-H Market Steer Club that allows members to thrive in both their project areas and personal development. She connects 4-H with her community as well, arranging for youth to speak on the radio, at community service events at the local fairgrounds and at a youth-led community breakfast to share about the 4-H program.
Through 4-H I have learned so many things that can help me build my confidence. I went from feeling insecure about my disability to being able to tell other kids who have dyslexia that even if it is difficult, you shouldn\'t feel embarrassed about it. Since joining 4-H I can share my experience with dyslexia and help people understand the disability.
— Sophia Mason, Monroe County
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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!