Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs 50th anniversary partnering with States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs
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EmailMichigan 4-H and States' 4-H will celebrate 50 years of positively impacting youth and families with international exchange programs in 2024.
As the Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs coordinator, I will celebrate with other states at this year's States’ 4-H International Annual Coordinator Conference and 50th Anniversary Celebration, held in November in Tucson, Arizona! Michigan 4-H has partnered with States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs (S4-H) since 1974. I have had the honor of being involved with S4-H personally for 30 of those years, hosting international youth and adults.
At the States’ 4-H International Annual Coordinator Conferences, Michigan 4-H has been recognized for participating in the S4-H’s programs, receiving many awards. These awards have included the Outstanding Quality Program Award, Years of Service, Tender Heart Award and many more. The success of Michigan 4-H’s exchange programs would not be possible without the efforts and dedication of 4-H staff and volunteers across the state. Everyone’s support and participation in the 4-H global citizenship programs are appreciated, and we look forward to another 50 successful years.
Michigan is one of many states that work with S4-H to participate in global citizenship youth exchange programs. Michigan has participated in inbound, outbound and academic year programs (AYP) for many years. International youth education programs like these unify the critical elements of positive youth development, cultural competencies, and world understanding in our ever-globalizing world.
This 50th anniversary year, Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs are excited and proud to have our first AYP outbound (OB) student from Macomb County, Jillian R., who is heading to Japan for the upcoming school year! Four other Michigan 4-H’ers traveled this summer in the four-week OB program. Three delegates traveled to Japan and one to Norway for the summer program.
Japan delegate Carsen L. from Ingham County shared this statement about his experience; "Do not be afraid to try new things. You never know; maybe you will only be given one chance to try these things, which could be the most fun thing in the world. My trip taught me not to be afraid of engaging yourself in a whole new world with the utmost respect you can give."
Japan delegate Elwyn D. from Eaton County said: "It was so amazing to see Hinata again and finally meet her family! We were paired up during the pandemic as pen-pals. So, it's really cool to see how far we've come together! I'm so grateful to be a part of 4-H. I will never forget those four weeks.”
Japan delegate Marlee F. from Ogemaw's County made the statement, "State's 4-H gave me the opportunity of a lifetime that I will never forget." She was also finally with her Japanese sister, whom they hosted in 2018!
Norway delegate Bethlehem C. from St. Joseph County shared, “Being an exchange student in Norway allowed me to experience incredible moments. I cherished every minute spent exploring the outdoors, sharing stories and bonding over activities. My host families' kindness, warmth and hospitality made me feel like a part of the family. Embrace every opportunity to try new things, whether it's tasting unfamiliar foods or participating in local traditions. Each experience broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for different cultures. Remember, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships. These connections not only enrich your journey but also shape your perspective on the world.”
For this 50th anniversary celebration, Michigan 4-H had 20 host families open their homes and hearts to Japanese Labo delegates. Five of the host families were from 2023, and two of the host families had hosted when a family member was a youth and even traveled outbound. Many heartwarming photos, stories, positive impacts and memories were shared. A glimpse of the summer of 2024 is shared in this 10-minute video, "Michigan 4-H International Exchange 2024 Video Celebration.”
The Michigan 4-H International Exchange Program promotes global understanding and cultural exchange through hosting opportunities and international travel for youth and families. The program aims to build lifelong friendships and a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures, fostering global citizenship among participants. Annual evaluations and surveys are collected from host families, host siblings and outbound delegates, then summarized and reported, documenting the program's impact.
With 28 years of international experience and a passion for global education, I know firsthand the positive impact of international exchange programs. I have twice been the inbound coordinator, outbound coordinator, AYP coordinator, county local coordinator, and Labo Japan outbound chaperone. I have had the honor to present virtually and physically with S4-H many times. My partnership with States’ 4-H has provided networking opportunities and as the Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs coordinator, I am inspired daily. These inspirations enrich my 4-H global and cultural programming, such as the article I wrote, "Why I make Japanese origami cranes." From the S4-H professional development tours, I and others have participated in other Michigan 4-H program partnerships formed with Taiwan 4-H and Japan Labo, enhancing the global and cultural programs.
In 2018, Michigan celebrated 25 years, hosting over 65 students through the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program. My family has hosted some of these students and they have become a part of our family. We still stay in contact and have even attended weddings and celebrated college graduations. I am grateful to receive heartwarming postcards, letters and emails from families and delegates. My favorite is one recently received from a 2004 Japanese Labo delegate, Eri Nabeta, and shared with the Michigan 4-H host families, so that they knew how they are impacting lives by hosting an international youth:
“I came to Michigan for the first time in the summer 20 years ago. I was a Labo exchange student and stayed in Otsego. I actually met you there and remember that I visited your house, too. I spent an amazing time in Michigan with my host family and many people. I fell in love with nature here. I played a lot outside, visited fun places and enjoyed riding horses almost every day. It's an unforgettable and precious memory of my life! I never thought I would live in Michigan after so many years. Anyway, I wanted to tell you thank you for what you did for us. I know you are still working for students. I really appreciate all your support and help for them. I hope all students who came to Michigan this year and their host families are spending wonderful times together. My host family was the Nagel Family in Otsego. I can't believe 20 years has passed. I'm glad I could experience and learn different cultures through this program. I had an amazing time. It enriched my heart.”
A long-term impact study is in process, working with S4-H. The current participation numbers gathered are as follows:
- From 1974-2024, 3,041 inbound youth participants
- From 1995-2024, 154 outbound youth participants
- From 2001-2016, 43 AYP Japan inbound youth participants
- From 2002-2016, 57 AYP FLEX inbound youth participants
Interested in experiencing this amazing program for yourself? The 2025 host family and outbound applications are now available online! We look forward to seeing Michigan families opening their homes and hearts with 10 Japanese youth and one chaperone coming to Michigan! Check out the fantastic opportunities in Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs and get started on planning the best year of global and cultural experiences yet!
If you’re interested in learning more about one of Michigan 4-H’s international exchange programs, view the Michigan 4-H website or contact Michigan State University Extension 4-H International Exchange Programs Coordinator Janis Brinn brinn@msu.edu. For more information about 4-H learning opportunities and other 4-H programs, contact your local MSU Extension office.
You can also check out the Michigan 4-H International Exchange Programs Facebook page and the S4-H Facebook page to keep up-to-date on all the wonderful opportunities available. You may also visit the S4-H website or email them at exchange@states4h.org.
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 4-H States’ Exchange, consider a special gift to help grow the Michigan 4-H International Endowment. Donate online or mail a check to the Michigan 4-H Foundation (please indicate “Michigan 4-H International Endowment” in the memo line and mail to: Michigan 4-H Foundation, 446 W. Circle Dr., Room 160, East Lansing, MI 48824).
MSU Extension and the Michigan 4-H Youth Development program help to prepare youth as positive and engaged leaders and global citizens by providing educational experiences and resources for youth interested in developing knowledge and skills in these areas.
