Nominate a 4 H volunteer for a Great Lakes, Great Leaders Award!
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EmailIf a 4 H volunteer has made a meaningful difference in your life or the life of someone you know, nominating them for Great Lakes, Great Leaders recognition is one of the most powerful ways to say “thank you!”
In every 4‑H club, activity and community event across Michigan, there is at least one volunteer whose dedication quietly—but profoundly—shapes the lives of young people. These volunteers give their time, talents and hearts to ensure youth feel supported, confident and capable of achieving their goals. The Michigan State University Extension 4-H Great Lakes, Great Leaders recognition program offers an opportunity to recognize these volunteers who demonstrate outstanding dedication, leadership and impact within their communities.
The power of a 4‑H volunteer
4‑H volunteers play many roles: teacher, mentor, cheerleader, coach and sometimes a steady, reassuring presence when young people need it most. They help spark interests in project areas from livestock to robotics, lead life‑skills activities, and create safe, inclusive environments where youth can learn, grow and lead.
But beyond the projects and programs, volunteers shape experiences that last a lifetime. Maybe a volunteer:
- Encouraged you to try something new.
- Helped you gain confidence in your abilities.
- Supported you through a challenge.
- Made your club feel welcoming and fun.
- Inspired you to take on leadership roles.
- Offered guidance that helped you grow.
These moments matter—and the people behind them deserve to be recognized.
Why your nomination matters
If a 4‑H volunteer has made a meaningful difference in your life or the life of someone you know, nominating them for Great Lakes, Great Leaders recognition is one of the most powerful ways to say “thank you!” When you nominate a volunteer, you’re doing more than filling out a form. You are:
- Celebrating their impact. Your words help volunteers see the difference they’re making, even when they don’t always realize it.
- Strengthening the 4‑H community. Recognitions highlight the positive relationships at the heart of 4‑H and encourage others to volunteer or stay engaged.
- Sharing powerful stories of service. Your nomination becomes part of the story of how 4‑H changes lives—not just for youth, but for communities across Michigan.
What to share in a nomination
If you’re thinking about nominating someone for a Great Lakes, Great Leaders award, consider these questions to guide your story:
- How has this volunteer made an impact in your life or your club?
- What qualities make them exceptional?
- What specific actions, moments or experiences stand out?
- How do they demonstrate the values of 4‑H—leadership, service, learning and community?
The form will ask you to provide:
- Why are you nominating this individual?
- What specific achievements or contributions should be recognized?
- How has this volunteer made an impact?
- Any additional comments or supporting materials related to the nomination.
To nominate an outstanding volunteer, please complete the 4-H Great Lakes, Great Leaders nomination form.
A simple way that makes a big difference
Your nomination doesn’t have to be long. What matters most is that it’s heartfelt and genuine. To nominate a 4-H volunteer, please complete the online nomination.
Volunteers rarely expect recognition. In fact, most say they serve because they want to give back or help youth succeed. But being nominated—knowing that someone sees and appreciates their efforts—can be incredibly meaningful.
Taking a few minutes to share your nomination is a powerful way to give back to someone who has given so much to you.
If there is a 4‑H volunteer who has inspired you, supported you or helped you grow, now is the perfect time to recognize them. Nominate them, celebrate them and let them know the difference they’ve made in your life. Your appreciation can be the encouragement that keeps them going—and reminds them that their work truly matters.
If you have questions about the 4-H Great Lakes, Great Leaders recognition program, contact Jennifer Weichel at weichel@msu.edu. If you are interested in learning more about Michigan 4-H or want to become a volunteer in your community, reach out to your local MSU Extension office or go directly to Volunteer Central and apply to be a volunteer today!
