Charity Hackett receives 4-H Excellence in Agriculture

By Andi Anderson

Charity Hackett of Berrien County has been honored as one of the recipients of the Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award during the Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration on September 21.

This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of 4-H volunteers in various agricultural project areas, including beef cattle, dairy cattle, and more. Each recipient receives a $1,000 grant to support their educational programs or resources.

Hackett is the club coordinator for the We Can Ride 4-H Club, one of the largest 4-H clubs in Berrien County, which focuses on individuals with disabilities.

This club is part of the 4-H Proud Equestrians Program, which teaches participants horseback riding, showmanship, groundwork, and stable management. Hackett plays a crucial role in helping young individuals with disabilities gain confidence and actively engage in agriculture.

In addition to supporting young riders, Hackett emphasizes the development of the club’s teen leaders, encouraging them to pursue further education and leadership opportunities.

She fosters a youth-driven environment where teen leadership is pivotal, helping teens gain essential skills and recognition through awards and scholarships.

Hackett expresses immense satisfaction in witnessing the growth of the youth involved, saying, “Being part of a Proud Equestrians Program fills your bucket: watching riders find a voice when they are nonverbal.”

Her dedication has transformed the We Can Ride 4-H Club into a nurturing space where diversity is celebrated, and strong relationships are fostered among members and volunteers.

Alongside Hackett, other 2024 recipients of the 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Awards include Donna Budd, Rick Gould, Kevin Yeager, Angela Oakman, and Mandy Rogers. This award is supported by an endowment established by the Michigan Farm Bureau to promote youth leadership in agriculture.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-nicexray