See below for event information and registration details

February 8-9: 4-H Winterfest

February 13: Ready to ACE the Interview - Driven for the Future

February 14: MI 4-H Dog Trick Challenge

February 15: 4-H Animal Science Career Quest

February 29: Cash Competition Contest Essays Due

March 1: 4-H Day at the Breslin

March 1-2: 2025 MI 4-H Dairy Conference

March 8: 4-H Spark and Share Summit

March 15: 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award Applications Due

April 27: MI 4-H Day with the Tigers

May 3-4: MI 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor Training

Save the Date - 4-H Adventure Camp

Save the date – for 4-H Adventure Camp from June 22-24, 2025 at Camp Neyati, outside of Clare, MI. 

Saginaw and Bay 4-H are heading back to camp this, Summer! Are you ready for an adventure?

Camp activities will include swimming, boating, fishing, biking, archery, arts and crafts, games, campfires, hiking, bouldering, and so much more!

Registration will open in March of 2025. Stay tuned for more information to be released in the upcoming months!

• Camp is open to youth ages 9-14 (as of January 1^st).
• Teen counselors – teens ages 15-19 may sign up to volunteer at camp!

4-H volunteers are needed!

Interested in helping at camp for a few hours, for a day, or more? Fill out the volunteer interest form at https://forms.gle/wFH3BKDe462FvJpn7

You can also contact gathstac@msu.edu (Saginaw 4-H) or julinho@msu.edu (Bay 4-H) to learn how you can help support this camp experience for 4-H youth.

4-H Explore the Farm Through the Seasons

Registration is now open

This series includes classes on alpacas, sheep, and swine. You can attend one, two, or all three classes!

Schomaker Farms and Saginaw 4-H Michigan State University are teaming up to offer a 12-month farm education learning series in 2025. Each month will offer a different learning topic and hands-on activity. Youth will be fully immersed in the farming experience!

All sessions will take place at Schomaker Farms located at 1103 Leddy Rd, Saginaw, MI 48609 (Shields Area)

Session registration will be released three months a time. 

Open to ages 5-19. Activities are best suited for youth ages 8-13. Younger youth may need help with activities. 

4-H membership is required. Space is limited!

Cost: $10 per session per youth or $20 per youth for 3 sessions. Youth under the age of 5 may attend along with a registered sibling. NO REFUNDS will be given.

Schedule

Date: February 20 - Thursday

Time: 5:45pm – 6:45pm

All About Sheep - Let’s dive into the baa-rilliant world of sheep life cycles and have a cuddle party with those adorable, fluffy newborn lambs

Date: March 20 - Thursday

Time: 5:45pm -6:45pm

All About Pigs - Dive into the delightful world of pigs and their adorable farrowing adventures—plus, get ready to meet the cutest little piglets fresh from the farm

Registration – youth will register 4-H Online by following the steps below. 

CURRENT 4-H members enrolled in the 23-24 year –

• Register https://4hfarmedseries25.4honline.com

NEW 4-H members –

• Create a family profile at https://v2.4honline.com/#/user/sign-in Select the “Saginaw County General 4-H Experience”.
• Once your 4-H membership is approved (you will receive email notification), register for the event at https://4hfarmedseries25.4honline.com

Have questions or need assistance contact gathstac@msu.edu.

2025 Woman’s National Farm and Garden Scholarship

Attention Students! Here is your opportunity to receive financial aid to help fund your career goals.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Saginaw County resident
• Pursuing an education related to environment, conservation, forestry, horticulture, wildlife management, botany, natural resources, agriculture, veterinary science, (large animal), architectural landscaping or a related field.
• High school senior or current undergraduate student

Scholarship is renewable.

Woman’s National Farm and Garden of Saginaw County offers an annual scholarship for eligible Saginaw County students!



For more information contact Kim Vance, scholarship committee chair: Email: kimvance53@sbcglobal.net

MI 4-H Spark and Share Summit

Scholarships are available for Saginaw 4-H volunteers and teens!

Learn more at https://www.canr.msu.edu/saginaw/4-h/scholarships-awards

Calling all 4-H Volunteers and Teens!

Reignite your passion for 4-H at the 2025 Spark and Share Summit March 8th at the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Conference Center in Frankenmuth!

Attendees will:

-Get energized with lots of creative and innovative ideas

-Meet and share ideas with other 4-H volunteers and teens from other counties

-Learn hands-on activities that you can reteach with youth in your club

4-H Volunteers and teens can register for this 1-day conference at: https://events.anr.msu.edu/SELeaderMeet2025/

Registration is $50 and includes lunch and selection of up to 3 breakout sessions.



Thanks to a generous donation by Michigan 4-H Foundation Program Committee, the price for this training has been reduced. A link to session descriptions is available through the registration page. The deadline for registration is February 8th.

4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award

The Michigan 4-H Foundation is seeking nominations of remarkable agricultural 4-H volunteers for the Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award.

This award recognizes outstanding 4-H volunteers that have exhibited excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership development in the areas of 4-H beef cattle; dairy cattle; goats; horses; horticulture, crops and soils; poultry; rabbits; sheep; swine; and veterinary science.

Up to five MFB Excellence in Agriculture Award honorees are recognized each year. Selected recipients will be recognized by both Michigan 4-H and MFB. In addition, honorees receive a $1,000 grant they designate to a 4-H agricultural program of their choice. The award is supported by an endowment with the Michigan 4-H Foundation that was established by MFB

Know an outstanding Michigan 4-H ag volunteer? Nominate them for the Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Ag Award and a $1,000 grant! https://mi4hfdtn.org/grants-scholarships/mfb-4-h-excellence-in-agriculture-award/

4-H Day at the Breslin

Join us! 2025 Michigan 4-H Day at the Breslin

Saturday, March 1

You’re invited to attend the nineteenth annual celebration of MSU Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development at the 2025 Michigan 4-H Day at the Beslin. Join us as the Spartan Women’s Basketball Team takes on Minnesota Women’s Basketball Team, Saturday, March 1.

Ticket price: FREE for the Michigan 4-H community including MSU Extension and 4-H youth, volunteers, partners, stakeholders, staff, alumni and their families! 

Learn more and reserve tickets at https://events.anr.msu.edu/event.cfm?eventID=63F08155CDE7EC84486DB949B15E54E777F2373DE356E97B2947E9CEE402FB8F

Wild Spartans

Join 4-H staff as we take a look into life working with fisheries and wildlife! This month’s 4-H Wild Spartans Series will plunge into the world of Great Lakes fisheries. Join us on Tuesday, February 11th, 2025 at 6:30pm EST for “The Relationship Between Tribes and Fish.” You will meet Jason Smith, Great Lakes Fisheries Assessment Biologist for the Bay Mills Indian Community.

You’ll learn about his work, and the education and career path he followed to get there. Youth will be encouraged to ask questions to learn more through a live Q&A.

This free virtual series is open to 4-H and non-4-H youth ages 12-19 years. Monthly sessions will be held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6:30pm EST. Pre-registration is required: https://events.anr.msu.edu/wildspartans2024_25/ 

4-H Capitol Experience

Scholarships are available for Saginaw 4-H members! Learn more at https://www.canr.msu.edu/saginaw/4-h/scholarships-awards

Do you want to make our state a better place? 4-H Capitol Experience is now open for registrations!

Join us at the Michigan Capitol March 16-18 to learn more about state government, and how your voice can make an impact!

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: High school age youth in Michigan

DESCRIPTION: Youth will select an issue group according to their interests, which will be led by a teen facilitator. Issue groups will provide a space for youth to meet peers from across the state while talking about their ideas and what they learned.

Youth will:

• Meet elected officials
• Hear from experts in policy representing a broad range of careers
• Hear from young people who have made a difference in their communities
• Discuss hot topics and learn how a bill becomes a law in Michigan and experience a hands-on legislative simulation

Learn more and register online at https://www.canr.msu.edu/4_h_capitol_experience/

Registration deadline is March 1, 2025

MI 4-H Day with the Detroit Tigers

Join Michigan 4-H and MSU Extension for a fun day at Comerica Park to watch the Detroit Tigers take on the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday, April 27!

Receive a co-branded Michigan 4-H and Detroit Tigers jersey and make a donation to 4-H with your ticket! To purchase tickets, visit https://fevo-enterprise.com/event/MI4H

Medical Insurance: Adulting 101

Are you confused about how medical insurance works? Have you ever wondered what the difference is between an HMO and PPO plan...and why knowing your out-of-pocket maximum is important?

Understanding medical insurance can be tricky! Join #MSUExtension on February 10 at 5:30 pm ET to learn the basics.

Register here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/adulting-101-medical-insurance

Credit Survival 101: Adulting 101

Don’t Let Credit Confuse You! Want to unlock the secrets of managing your money like a pro? Join our 1-hour Crash Credit Course and learn how to master your credit before it masters you.



Who: Youth ages 9-19

When: January 15 at 6 pm or February 4 at 5:30

Check it out here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/crashcreditcourse

4-H Future Squad Club

Figuring out this whole "adulting" thing can be tough, but we've got you covered! Join the 4-H Future Squad to learn essential life skills for YOUR future. This FREE virtual club meets twice a month from October 2024 to May 2025. 

Grow your "adulting skills," connect with youth from across the state, and most importantly, have a blast!

Whether it's your primary or secondary club, everyone is welcome!

For more info and to learn how to register, visit:  https://www.canr.msu.edu/4-h-future-squad/

Let's tackle adulthood together! 💪 #4HFutureSquad #AdultingSkills #YouthEmpowerment #MichiganYouth

Cash Competition Contest

The 4-H Cash Composition Contest is back again this year! This year’s contest is open to any youth residing in Michigan, ages 9-19. Write a short essay on credit for a chance to win a $100 gift card, thanks to the generous sponsorship from Extra Credit Union. Three winners in each age bracket will win!

The deadline to register and submit your essay is February 28, 2025. Read contest details at https://bit.ly/cashcompositioncontest

Ace the Interview

Join us for "Ace the Interview: Tips to Land Your Dream Job" on Thursday, February 13 at 6 p.m. ET! 

Take the next step in your career with practical tips to leave a lasting impression! Part of the Driven for the Future: Career Webinar Series sponsored by Toyota R&D

What you’ll learn:

-Proven strategies to prepare

-How to communicate confidently

-Tips to highlight your value and stand out with a positive impression

Register now and get ready to land your dream job: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/ace-the-interview

Driven for the Future

Rev up your career in 2025! Join us for Driven for the Future, a five-part webinar series on Automotive R&D Skilled Trades and Advanced Manufacturing Careers and Career-Building Skills (the very important topics of professionalism & interview tips!)—happening monthly, Jan-May 2025.

Through the partnership of Toyota and Michigan 4-H, youth will experience a variety of career paths in the automotive industry as well as building workforce readiness skills to take on their goals and feel beyond ready for the future. Skilled trade positions and apprentice experiences will be highlighted. 

This program is FREE and open to all, though geared towards middle school students, high school students, and recent graduates.

Youth Development, Teachers, and Adults may also attend.

Sponsored by Toyota Research & Development, there’s even an exclusive incentive for those who attend all five!

📅 Don’t miss this chance to shift your career into high gear.

📖 Learn more & register: https://www.canr.msu.edu/driven-for-the-future/

4-H Game Night

4-H Game Night is a hybrid place where youth from across Michigan can get together and play games. It will be offered virtually statewide, and in select locations across the state according to interest. 

It will be on the 4^th Tuesday of the month at 7pm. To get the zoom link, register at https://forms.gle/gV5yaKdPxb3Yc4uA7

4-H State Awards

The commitment you put into “Making Your Best Better” is significant. 

Through your 4-H experiences you are molding your future by growing your skills, becoming a leader, and serving your community. 

Your 4-H journey has required curiosity, determination, accountability, and dedication to learning and growth. Your efforts are commendable and deserve to be recognized with a Michigan 4-H State Award, the highest honor bestowed on a 4-H member.

The Michigan 4-H State Awards Program is a hands-on learning experience that allows 4-H members to develop and practice “adulting” skills such as resume writing, filling out an application, and interviewing. Applications and interviews are based on communicating your 4-H participation and learning experiences. Applicants are eligible to compete for cash prizes and be recognized for their 4-H involvement. 4-H members who meet the minimum application score are eligible for a $50 scholarship toward their 4-H Exploration Days registration. The 2025 Michigan 4-H State Awards will be presented during 4-H Exploration Days on June 18 at MSU.

Who: 4-H members 12-19 years old (on January 1)

Submit an application: https://events.anr.msu.edu/StateAwards25

Application deadline: April 1

Find complete information on the website: https://www.canr.msu.edu/4_h_scholarships_and_recognition_program/4-h-awards-and-recognition-program/youth-recognition/

4-H Mark of Excellence Award

Grab your pen! Spark your imagination!

Dive into the world of 4-H!

Twist and turn your way through your 4-H memories, as you capture your adventure and discoveries!

Participants are asked to create either a video or a journal reflection focusing on the theme of “4-H Beyond Ready.”​

​

Eligibility:

• Be a current 4-H member between the ages of 10 and 11 as of January 1, 2025. Enrollment in previous years not required.
• Individuals may only be selected for this award once.
• Each county can select up to two (2) winners to receive the Mark of Excellence Award each year.

Submission Details:

• Contestants are asked to create either a video or a journal reflection focusing around the theme of “4-H Beyond Ready”
• Entries should be legible, readable or easily viewable.
• Video submissions must be no more than 2 minutes in length. Videos should be in mp4 format or provide a YouTube Channel link.
• Journal reflections must be 500 words or less and can be hand-written or typed.
• Submission can be either video OR a journal reflection.
• Must include first name and county.

Award:

Selected winners will receive a certificate and medal.

Deadlines:​

Submit to your local 4-H Office by April 1, 2025, for judging.​

​

Selected winners will be notified by April 15, 2025, of their achievement from their local​ 4-H Office.

Learn more about the 2025 Mark of Excellence Award and video submissions at https://www.canr.msu.edu/4_h_scholarships_and_recognition_program/4-h-awards-and-recognition-program/youth-recognition/

World Food Prize

As millions across the globe deal with food insecurity, the World Food Prize Michigan Youth Institute (WFP MIYI) offers young people an opportunity to be part of the solution. Held May 8 in East Lansing, or by participating from anywhere else using Zoom video/web conference technology, the event seeks to inspire and prepare the next generation of global leaders to end world hunger. 

To participate, youth should be in grades 7-12 and register by the March 15 deadline. As part of the registration process, youth are required to prepare a three- to five-page research paper about a developing country and one of 22 key factors that affect food security. At the event, youth present and discuss their papers with other attendees and research and industry experts.

The top performing students at the WFP MIYI will be selected to attend the World Food Prize Global Youth Institute in Des Moines, Iowa, in October. For more information, visit https://www.canr.msu.edu/wfpmiyi/. Registration opens Feb. 1 and closes Mar. 15.

Host a Japanese youth in Summer 2025 through States’ 4-H International

Open your Home and Heart, become a host family today, and create memories that will never fade away!"

Invite an international youth (ages 12-17 years) or adult chaperone into your home for three and a half weeks and share an American experience. Expand your family’s cultural understanding, learn about new foods and customs, and possibly learn a new language, all while sharing your own. You and your children will build lifelong friendships and gain new perspectives on your country, too! Applications to host can be found at www.states4hexchange.org

For more information, contact: Michigan 4-H International Exchange Program Coordinator Jan Brinn brinn@msu.edu

Project F.I.S.H. Workshop

Michigan State University’s Department of Fisheries and Wildlife invites teachers, educators and volunteers to 2 days of: “Place Based Learning through Sportfishing and Aquatic Resource Education”.

This workshop is open to anyone, even those who may want to learn a bit more about fishing to be able to volunteer for local fishing events, or even teach your own family! Coordinated through Michigan State University’s Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, this workshop is a partnership with MSU Extension, MSU 4-H Youth Development, Department of Natural Resources, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, schools, and community service organizations and many others to educate young people about our natural resources through FISHING. This is a workshop based on the Project FISH philosophy of hands on, multiple-contact sportfishing and aquatic resource education.

We will offer activities in Aquatic Ecology, Tackle Crafting, People and Fish Management and actual Angling Skills. Participants will leave with curriculum activities, equipment, even a fishing rod & reel, and access to supplies and resources to begin a successful fishing program/club with children in the classroom or in an after school setting.

The workshop is partially funded through donors to Project F.I.S.H. (lunch will be provided) Contact: Mark Stephens at 517-432-2700, steph143@msu.edu, or Early registration will insure your participation, space is limited.

You can register online at https://commerce.cashnet.com/msu_3804?&itemcode=3804-ANR2025

Registration deadline: February 24th, 2025

4-H Animal Science Career Quest

Are you interested in a career working with animals? Join us for 4-H Animal Science Career Quest!

During this program, you can learn about career paths in animal science and the MSU programs that can get you there! This program is a joint effort between Michigan 4-H and the MSU Department of Animal Science, and its focus is introducing youth to the wide variety of career options available to them within these fields.

This event will be on February 15^th on MSU’s main campus in East Lansing. It is open to youth ages 12-19 (as of January 1, 2025) and 4-H volunteers. Space is limited, so don’t delay! Register now: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/4-h-animal-science-career-quest-2025

2025 MI 4-H Dairy Conference

The MI 4-H Dairy Conference is back for 2025! This event is open to 4-H members ages 12-19. This year's event will take place on the campus of MSU on March 1st & 2nd. This is an overnight event that focuses on the dairy industry, but this program is open to anyone interested in dairy and animal science. The cost is $130 for both youth and adult participants.

Registration closes on February 6th, 2025. Reach out to Kendra at vanorde4@msu.edu with any questions.

Learn more and register at

https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/mi-4-h-dairy-conference

MI 4-H State Hippology Contest

Youth ages 5-19 are invited to participate in the 2025 Michigan 4-H State Hippology Contest! This annual contest allows youth in Horse and Pony projects to test their Equine knowledge and Skills with potential to represent Michigan 4-H at a National 4-H Hippology Contest in the fall!

Registration Closes Friday February 28^th at 11:59pm.

Register here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/events/2025-michigan-4-h-state-hippology-contest

MI 4-H Horse Webinar Series

The Michigan 4-H Horse Program is hosting a six-part winter webinar series.

The series will focus on an array of topics centered around youth who are just getting started with horses and the Horse and Pony Project.

The webinars will be via zoom and recorded. Be sure to join and get involved to learn as much as possible for the upcoming year of fun!

Schedule

February 5^th at 6pm

Equine Nutrition basics with Dr. Christine Skelly, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist

February 18^th at 6pm

Being a better boarder and Running a boarding facility with Taylor Fabus, owner and Manager of Fabus Farms

March 12^th at 6pm

From the judges’ perspective: Showmanship with Dr. Karen Waite, multi-carded judge and Associate Professor at Michigan State University

March 26^th at 6pm

From the judges’ perspective: Ranch Riding with Dr. Alyssa Logan, multi-carded judge and Assistant Professor at Middle Tennessee State University

Webinar Access 

Zoom link: https://msu.zoom.us/j/97121881938

Webinar ID: 971 2188 1938

Password: 4HHORSE

Questions, contact David Lindsay at lindsa75@msu.edu | (517) 353-1748

Saginaw 4-H Council

February 6: Saginaw 4-H Council Meeting 6:30pm

This INPERSON meeting will take place at the Saginaw 4-H Office at 723 Emerson St. Saginaw MI 48607

Please consider attending these monthly meetings to help plan and offer events and learning opportunities for youth in Saginaw county.

Help is needed! Use your skills to help with fundraising and scholarships, youth recognition, planning youth camps, clinics, leadership events and more!

4-H youth can be and are HIGHLY ENCOURAGED to sign up for officer positions and attend meetings. Youth participation in a 4-H council is a great way to learn leadership skills guided by adult mentors, make connections and friendships, and even build your portfolio!

Questions, contact the Saginaw 4-H office at gathstac@msu.edu or call 989-907-6500

Saginaw 4-H Horse Council

Saginaw 4-H Horse Council Meeting Next meeting



Date: TBD

Time: 6:30pm

Meetings take place at the Saginaw County Fairgrounds. All Saginaw 4-H volunteers and youth are welcomed to attend.

If you are interested in attending contact gathstac@msu.edu for more information.

4-H Shooting Sports Instructor Training

Scholarships are available for Saginaw 4-H members and volunteers. Learn more at https://www.canr.msu.edu/saginaw/4-h/scholarships-awards

Registration is now open for the Spring Shooting Sports Instructor Training May 3^rd and 4^th in Owosso! Join us for 2 days of classes focused on everything you need to know to teach Shooting Sports fundamentals as part of a 4-H Youth Development Program.

Follow this link to learn more and register: https://events.anr.msu.edu/2025SpringWorkshop/

MI 4-H Volunteer Webinar Series

Join us for the Michigan 4-H Volunteer Webinar Series in 2025!  Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just getting started, these webinars are packed with valuable insights to help you make the most impact. 

Check out the full list of topics and registration at https://www.canr.msu.edu/volunteering/mi-4-h-volunteer-webinar-series. 

Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with fellow 4-H volunteers across the state. See you online!

• Engaging Every Voice: Facilitation Skills for Dynamic 4-H Clubs: February 25, 2025
• The Heart of 4-H: Cultivating Developmental Relationships with Youth: March 18, 2025
• 4-H Club Fundraising 101: April 16, 2025
• Fueling or Squashing the Rumor Mill: May 15, 2025
• Engaging Parents in 4-H Experiences and Implement Shared Leadership in 4-H Clubs

January Saginaw 4-H Sewing Class

A special thank you to the Frankenmuth Pacesetters 4-H Club for hosting a county wide Sewing Class in January. Youth learned basic sewing skills and make a tote bag to take home. Everyone is looking forward to the next class in February. This class was made possible by a grant for the MI 4-H Foundation.

4-H Ambassadors

4-H ambassadors represent and promote 4-H, as well as assist with county-wide or statewide 4-H activities.

A 4-H Ambassador is a motivated individual who seeks to become a leader, mentor and teacher, inspiring positive change in their community.

What is an Ambassador?

4-H Ambassadors are responsible for representing and promoting 4-H and assisting with county-wide or statewide 4-H activities. A 4-H Ambassador is a motivated individual who seeks to become a leader, mentor, and teacher, inspiring positive change in their community.   

Why should I become a 4-H Ambassador?

The Ambassadors program builds self-confidence, personal growth, communication, and leadership skills. You will have an opportunity to meet new friends, make new connections, engage in public speaking, enhance your portfolio and resume and so much more.

How can I become a 4-H Ambassador?

There are many opportunities throughout Michigan to serve in an ambassador role both at the county, state and project area levels. Work with your local 4-H office if you are interested in an opportunity listed below.

National 4-H Level 

National 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassadors-Contact: Joe Kreider

State 4-H Level

State Youth Leadership Council (SYLC)-Contact: Frank Cox, Janelle Stewart, or Roxanne Turner

Statewide 4-H Project Level (may provide feedback on project area and/or assist with specific project-specific events)

• Apple Ambassadors-Contact: Kathy Jamieson
• 4-H Rabbit and Cavy Ambassadors-Contact: Glenda Weiss 
• Healthy Living Ambassadors- Contact: Michelle Neff or Kea Norrell-Aitch
• Money Smart Youth Ambassadors-Contact Laurie Rivetto or Kathy Jamieson 
• Shooting Sports Youth Ambassadors-Contact: Joe Kreider

Statewide 4-H Event Level (shorter term, focused on delivering a specific event)

• 4-H Exploration Days Scheme Team-Contact: Darren Bagley or Liana Pepin
• 4-H Capitol Experience Steering Committee-Contact: Darren Bagley
• 4-H Future Squad Planning Committee-Contact: Laurie Rivetto
• MI State Fair Youth Council-Contact: Cheyenne Shields

Adapted from 4-H Ambassadors