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Michelle Barnes

Michelle Barnes

County: Calhoun

Class Years: 2016-17

“The youth are the greatest reward of being a 4-H volunteer leader. I love seeing their accomplishments and growth over the years along with the thank-you’s, the smiles and the memories created. It is fun being there for the kids, teaching them life lessons and having fun with them.”

Michelle Barnes got her start with 4-H in 1998, and today she volunteers with five clubs: 4-H Dairy Starter Calf Club, 4-H Shooting Sports, Calhoun County 4-H Council, Lucky Starts 4-H Club and the Mini-winnies 4-H Club.

Along with living the life of a small farmer, she works in the veterinary field. She is a shining example of someone who works hard and shows passion for the world of agriculture. She uses the resources available to her through the veterinary clinic and her own knowledge to help teach many concepts in animal husbandry, nutrition and much more.

Michelle Barnes leads many community service projects for 4-H Council. She represents 4-H at many local events, teaching youth to be involved leaders in their community by example. This past year, Calhoun County 4-H offered a tractor and machine operator course for youth. She was instrumental in helping surface instructors and assembling other resources to make the program a success.

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Kylie Smith, Ionia County

4-H is an engaging and fun program where you can learn about animals, responsibility and so much more. There are a lot of activities and opportunities that I can do and have because of 4-H.

— Kylie Smith, Ionia County