Here at Michigan State University, we are in the spirit of the 150th year of this terrific university. We are all very proud of the great work that connects our MSU faculty and our partners across the state. Nowhere is this more visible than through Michigan State University Extension (MSUE). Our ability to take new knowledge and transfer it to people throughout the state is a testament to the land-grant system.

MSUE is home to the Michigan 4-H Youth Development program. The work we do for youth is important to the university, and all of you comprise a huge contingent of volunteers who take the knowledge to the community.

Because of your commitment, new and exciting programs are made available across this state. Together, we touch lives of youth from 5 to 19 years of age, helping them explore, experience and achieve!

You will find the new tagline for national 4-H fully embraced by the work you see woven throughout this issue of 4-H Today: 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills.

Peruse these pages to find out more about what leadership and citizenship opportunities are available for our young people. They have many options at the local, state and national level–and so do our 4-H volunteers. There’s no time like the present to get more involved and share the enthusiasm about leadership opportunities!

You will also find great information about 4-H Youth Mentoring. 4-H Youth Development has always been about informal mentoring, but now our volunteer model is taking things one step further with a more formal approach to mentoring.

Mentoring, encouraging dynamic citizenship and all the activities 4-H volunteers engage in serve one purpose: to help Michigan youth live healthy, engaged lives and become more productive, caring adults as a result. Thanks and have a great year in 4-H!

Cheri Booth, State Leader
4-H Youth Development
Michigan State University Extension