Gould and Yeager Honored as Outstanding 4-H Agriculture Volunteers
Michigan State University Extension - 4-H Volunteering & Mentoring
September 25, 2024
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Rick Gould and Kevin Yeager of St. Joseph County were among five Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award recipients honored in 2024.
(Image: Gould and Yeager accepting their awards. From left to right: Jodi Schulz, co-director of MSU Extension's Children and Youth Programs; Rick Gould; Kevin Yeager; and Lisa Bottomley, co-director of MSU Extension's Children and Youth Programs.)
The award recognizes the outstanding youth education and leadership development achievements of Michigan 4-H volunteers in various agriculture project areas. Honorees receive $1,000 grants for training, supplies, or curriculum enhancement.
Gould and Yeager, a dynamic duo collaborating to support 4-H'ers in St. Joseph County's 4-H swine project, have dedicated their time and expertise to promote the swine industry. They engage young people through:
- Burr Oak 4-H Club
- Rolling Clovers 4-H Club
- Countywide meetings
Their teaching topics encompass:
- Swine feeding and care
- Meat cuts and swine body parts
- Pig breeds and showmanship
- Animal selection
"My greatest reward is seeing the kids excel not only at the county level but also at the state level," shares Yeager. "Being able to see them gain confidence in themselves as they progress through 4-H."
Beyond their own exceptional leadership, Gould and Yeager empower 4-H'ers to become leaders themselves by encouraging them to pursue 4-H State Awards and explore new opportunities. Their mentorship has cultivated a ripple effect, with many 4-H'ers in the swine project going on to mentor others.
"It is so rewarding when you see the kids use something you taught them in the showring and then they come out of the ring with that big smile, knowing they did great," Gould notes.
The other 2024 recipients of the 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Awards are:
- Donna Budd (Wayne County)
- Charity Hackett (Berrien County)
- Angela (Washtenaw County)
- Mandy Rogers (Washtenaw County)
This award is supported by an endowment with the Michigan 4-H Foundation established by Michigan Farm Bureau.