Posted on August 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Anna Egan
Yvonne Gaul’s dedication to Shelby County 4-H has shaped generations of youth through her leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to service. Her 4-H journey began as a member of the Defiance Peppy Pals, the only girls’ club in the area. When the club dissolved, Yvonne continued to participate by helping her brothers show calves at the Shelby County Fair, absorbing the values of 4-H even without a formal club.
In 1991, Yvonne co-founded the Northern Explorers 4-H Club to ensure more youth had access to 4-H opportunities. For 31 years, she served as a club leader, mentoring her sons, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless other members. She also led Discovery Kids for fourth graders and Clover Kids, helping young members build valuable life skills.
Yvonne’s impact extended to the Shelby County Fair, where she volunteered in the dog show, assisted with static exhibit judging, and served as a judge’s comment writer. Her uplifting presence created a welcoming environment for all youth.
At the county level, Yvonne served on the Shelby County 4-H Youth Committee, evaluating record books and advocating for youth recognition. Her thoughtful feedback helped strengthen the 4-H experience for future generations.
When asked why she devoted so much time to 4-H, Yvonne shared, “I’ve had past 4-H members thank me for being their leader, telling me they’ve gotten jobs because of their experiences in 4-H.”
Yvonne Gaul truly embodies the spirit of 4-H. Her lifelong service has enriched individual lives and strengthened the Shelby County 4-H community for years to come.
