Harry J. Bonner, Sr.

Harry J. Bonner, Sr., executive director of Substance Abuse Prevention Service, has been a leader, youth mentor, advocate and visionary of Michigan 4-H Youth Development. Bonner sees the potential in all children and young people and has worked tirelessly to prepare them for the future. Through 4-H, and his efforts specifically, scores of youth have had access to opportunities beyond their neighborhood and community that they would not have had otherwise. A master of networking, Bonner was instrumental in bringing substance abuse resources and 4-H resources together in the production of two successful videos. He has promoted Michigan Extension’s 4-H Youth Development programs while sitting on governor boards, on the Calhoun County Board and while interacting with U.S. senators, state representatives, county commissioners, city mayors and school superintendents. He has invested time and efforts at all levels of 4-H. Serving also as a Michigan 4-H Foundation trustee, Bonner has modeled the importance of building relationships with and across families, schools, youth organizations and other institutions impacting the lives of kids. When he talk about his partnership with 4-H and particularly with Calhoun County 4-H educator Sherri Grice, he speaks with great passion and resolve about the role 4-H can play in helping young people to learn their way into adulthood.