Blanchards sponsor 4-H Capitol Experience reception
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EmailWith a shared passion for youth leadership and civic engagement, former Gov. Jim Blanchard and Janet Blanchard graciously sponsored the 4-H Capitol Experience legislative reception which took place on March 17.
Generous support from former Gov. Jim Blanchard and Janet Blanchard helped to strengthen 4-H Capitol Experience, a signature Michigan 4-H precollege program hosted by Michigan State University Extension that empowers young people to engage with Michigan’s civic process. With a shared passion for youth leadership and civic engagement, the Blanchard’s graciously sponsored the event’s recent legislative reception which took place on March 17.
“One of the most important qualities of good citizens is having knowledge and experience about our democratic system of government,” said Janet. “That’s why 4-H Capitol Experience is an important part of our mission of building a better world.”
Held annually in Lansing, 4-H Capitol Experience brings together 4-H youth from across the state to learn about state government, leadership and advocacy. Participants gain first-hand exposure to the legislative process, explore career pathways in public service, and build skills in communication, leadership and critical thinking.
A cornerstone component of the event is the 4-H Capitol Experience reception, which celebrates youth voice while strengthening relationships between 4-H members and state legislators. At the reception, youth have a unique opportunity to connect with elected officials, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development staff, MSU leaders, and community stakeholders—while sharing the impact of 4-H in their local communities.
“Sadly, most surveys reveal there is a serious lack of knowledge and awareness of our American system of government among our fellow citizens,” continued Janet. “It also shows that the answer starts in middle school, junior high and high school – not later in life. Later in life is often too late. That’s why I applaud 4-H Capitol Experience. We’re building good citizens and building a better world.”
An Ingham County 4-H alumna, former Michigan 4-H Foundation trustee and member of the National 4-H Hall of Fame, Janet Blanchard has been a strong advocate for youth, education and community involvement. Similarly, her husband Gov. Jim Blanchard, who served as Michigan’s 45th governor from 1983 to 1991, has been a longtime champion of education and public service.
Reflecting their shared commitment to young people, the Blanchards established the Janet A. Blanchard 4-H Leadership Scholarship in 2021 to support 4-H members attending MSU. Both Gov. Jim and Janet Blanchard attended MSU, with Gov. Blanchard earning his bachelor’s and MBA at MSU, though Janet ultimately obtained her degree from Western Michigan University. Their support of MSU also extends to the MSU athletics and the establishment of the Governor Jim Blanchard Public Service Forum at MSU, which promotes thoughtful dialogue on public policy and leadership.
“Governor and Mrs. Blanchard have a deep commitment to education, public service and youth leadership,” said Abbey Miller, director of the Michigan 4-H Foundation. “Their support of 4-H Capitol Experience helps ensure that young people from across Michigan have a meaningful opportunity to learn how government works and to see themselves as active, engaged citizens.”
Michigan 4-H extends its sincere appreciation to Gov. Jim and Janet Blanchard for their generous sponsorship of the 4-H Capitol Experience reception and for their continued belief in the power of young people to help shape Michigan’s future.
To learn more about the event, visit the 4-H Capitol Experience program website. To learn more about giving to Michigan 4-H, visit https://mi4hfdtn.org
