By Andi Anderson
The Michigan 4-H Foundation has officially launched the Beyond Ready Campaign, an ambitious fundraising effort designed to prepare young people for future challenges and opportunities. Announced during the Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration on October 3, the campaign aims to raise $12 million by 2032 to support youth development programs across the state.
The initiative reflects Michigan 4-H’s commitment to helping young people develop leadership, confidence, adaptability, and life skills that are essential in a rapidly changing world. Through educational experiences, mentorship, and community involvement, the organization seeks to equip youth with the tools needed for long-term personal and professional success.
According to Mary Draves, co-chair of the Michigan 4-H Foundation’s Beyond Ready Campaign Committee, the campaign will create sustainable support for future generations.
"Today's youth face a rapidly changing world that requires resilience, adaptability and confidence," said Mary Draves, co-chair of the Michigan 4-H Foundation’s Beyond Ready Campaign Committee. "Michigan 4-H is uniquely equipped to support youth in developing these critical skills and more. The Beyond Ready Campaign will provide long-term, stable funding that allows Michigan 4-H to continue offering opportunities and experiences that prepare young people to face challenges and thrive, no matter what the future may bring.”
Research has consistently shown that participation in 4-H programs helps young people build leadership skills, increase self-confidence, and become active contributors within their communities. The Beyond Ready Campaign aims to expand access to these benefits by investing in programs, resources, and facilities that support youth learning and development.
The fundraising initiative focuses on five key priorities. These include expanding educational opportunities and skills development programs, supporting the Michigan 4-H Children’s Gardens, promoting health, well-being, and belonging, addressing emerging youth needs, and strengthening endowment funds that support state and county-level 4-H programs.
A major component of the campaign is its planned giving initiative, which seeks to secure 40 planned gifts by 2032. These contributions are expected to provide long-term financial stability and ensure continued support for youth programs well into the future.
Joe Hune, Michigan 4-H Foundation trustee and co-chair of the Beyond Ready Campaign Committee, emphasized the importance of investing in youth today.
"Today’s young people will soon lead our communities, workforce and future,” said Joe Hune, Michigan 4-H Foundation trustee and co-chair of the Beyond Ready Campaign Committee. “This campaign will ensure Michigan 4-H can continue to provide life-changing experiences, deliver innovative programs, support diverse learning needs, and help youth from all communities across Michigan become Beyond Ready for future success through 4-H.”
The campaign has already achieved significant early success. During its leadership phase, the initiative raised $7.3 million, representing nearly 62% of its overall goal. More than 5,200 gifts from nearly 2,200 donors have contributed to this momentum.
Thomas Coon, Michigan 4-H Foundation president, highlighted the lasting impact of donor support.
“We’re incredibly grateful to those donors who have already invested in the Beyond Ready Campaign,” said Thomas Coon, Michigan 4-H Foundation president. “Michigan 4-H has been making a difference in the lives of youth for nearly 120 years. Through this campaign, we can help to ensure it continues to do so for generations to come, creating young people who are ready to lead, build, serve and take on whatever the future holds.”
The Beyond Ready Campaign welcomes support through one-time donations, multi-year commitments, stock gifts, planned giving, estate gifts, and other charitable contributions. By investing in Michigan youth, the campaign aims to expand opportunities, inspire curiosity, strengthen leadership skills, and prepare the next generation for success in education, careers, and community life.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotografixx
Categories: Michigan, Education