For nearly three decades, Robert Richards has been a fixture in the Michigan 4-H shooting sports program, not only leading the Clinton County 4-H Shooting Sports Club but also donating his time to statewide initiatives. He is certified to train other 4-H volunteers as shooting sports instructors and has done so in countless statewide instructor workshops. As a result, Richards has helped to significantly increase the number of young people who can be involved in the Michigan 4-H shooting sports program.
Richards serves as range officer at the Michigan 4-H State Shooting Sports Tournament, helping to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all, and as treasurer for the Michigan 4-H State Shooting Sports Advisory Board. As treasurer, Richards has helped shape policy and build consensus on statewide decisions in the program. His long-term involvement in and commitment to Michigan 4-H shooting sports have helped provide continuity to the program during staffing changes.
In his nearly 30 years as a 4-H volunteer, Richards has shared his shooting sports skills with 4-H’ers and families across the state. He exemplifies 4-H’s commitment to inclusion by extending a warm welcome and reassurance to all the 4-H’ers, adult volunteers, and families with whom he works. Richards regularly invites shooting sports clubs from other counties to sit in on his club’s classes, and mentors many new 4-H volunteers and families. He truly believes that any youth can benefit from the life skills they learn in the 4-H shooting sports program and his instruction style prioritizes inclusion and positive youth development. The lasting impact of Richards’ service can be seen in the 4-H shooting sports program and in the young people and families with whom he engages at 4-H events.
