10/10/2026
Today, we begin showcasing 4-H Alumni and Leaders, highlighting the impact 4-H can have on your future.
"I was raised in Michigan and have been involved in 4-H for as long as I can remember. I believe I joined around age 7, before I even had a horse of my own. I was very active in Michigan State University Extension and 4-H, participating in Communication Days, public speaking, poster contests, Hippology competitions, record books, and lots of meetings.
I’m especially thankful for the leaders who invested in me, encouraged me, and taught me hands-on lessons about horse care. They showed me that horsemanship is about so much more than riding. It’s about responsibility, hard work, education, and respect. Horses can give you the highest highs one day and humble you the next, and learning those lessons young helped prepare me for life.
I have a bachelor's degree in animal and Equine Science from Murray State University, and today I work for Churchill Downs at Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel, helping run Kentucky’s longest Standardbred racing meet. I truly don't think I would be where I am today without 4-H.
Now, I have a heart for giving back. I want to be the kind of mentor my leaders were to me: someone who encourages young people, teaches them responsibility, and helps them grow into respectful humans and dependable employees.
4-H is about so much more than projects, ribbons, and horses. It’s about building confidence, developing life skills, finding your people, and discovering what you’re capable of.
I’m proud of where I started, grateful for the people who helped me along the way, and excited to help make that same kind of impact on the next generation."
-Cara Collins
4-H Alumni and Christian County 4-H Horse Club Leader
If you are a 4-H Alumni, or if you know an alumni that would like to be featured, please reach out to us. We will continue spotlighting folks for the next several weeks!
