Lincoln County native Madi Welch has officially stepped into the role of 4-H Extension Educator. Born and raised in Lincoln County, Madi is deeply rooted in the community and is proud to return to her hometown to give back in a way that aligns with her passions: youth development, agriculture, and community service.
After earning her B.S. in Agricultural Communications from the University of Georgia, Madi was thrilled to be able to return home and get involved within her community. “Being able to return and pour into the same community that raised me is an incredible honor. I’m excited to invest in our youth and help create the same kind of meaningful experiences that made such a difference in my life.”
Raised in a family known for their dedication to showing quality livestock, Madi originally envisioned a future closely tied to that path. She spent six years actively involved in 4-H, showing goats across the state—an experience that taught her responsibility, confidence, and the value of hard work. “Some of my most important life lessons were learned in the showbarn,” she shared. “It shaped who I am today.” Her involvement with the 2023 University of Georgia Meat Judging Team fueled her love for the meat industry, and for a time, she considered pursuing a career in that field. However, after adding a minor in Elementary Agricultural Education, everything clicked. “I realized my true calling was working with youth,” Madi said. “I loved agriculture, but I knew my purpose was to share that love with the next generation.”
Since stepping into her role as 4-H Extension Educator, Madi has hit the ground running. She proudly served on the Wilkes/Lincoln Farm Safety Camp Committee, helping to plan and host the very same day camp she once attended as a child—an experience that came full circle. This summer, she’s also collaborated with Wilkes County 4-H to offer Lake Dayz and Sun Rayz, giving kids an opportunity to enjoy the lake, build friendships, and have fun. One of her favorite events so far has been a Farm to Table workshop, where students visited Double Branches Farm to handpick fresh blueberries and then returned to the kitchen to bake homemade blueberry muffins. Students learned firsthand where their food comes from and how to turn it into something delicious. In July, Madi will welcome Ranger Nick from UGA’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, who will bring along animal ambassadors for a fun and educational visit. From July 7th to 11th, Madi will attend Cloverleaf Summer Camp at Rock Eagle alongside 10 Lincoln County 4-H’ers. She is continuing to plan more hands-on activities and engaging programs throughout the year, and she hopes to see even more youth and families get involved in all that 4-H has to offer.
Madi is passionate about helping local youth discover the many opportunities that 4-H has to offer. From leadership development and hands-on learning to community involvement and lifelong friendships, 4-H empowers young people to grow into confident, capable citizens. As she looks ahead, Madi is eager to grow the Lincoln County 4-H program, create new opportunities, and inspire more youth to get involved in experiences that will shape their futures—in agriculture and beyond.
Madi encourages all families with rising 4th–12th grade students to consider becoming involved in Lincoln County 4-H. With opportunities ranging from leadership development and agricultural education to hands-on learning and community engagement, 4-H has something to offer every child. “We’re working to build a program that reflects the needs and interests of our community’s youth,” Madi said. “But we can’t do it without their involvement and the support of families.”
Anyone interested in learning more is encouraged to stop by the Lincoln County Extension Office, call 706-359-3233, or email Madi directly at madison.welch@uga.edu. Madi is excited to welcome new faces to 4-H and looks forward to continuing to grow a program that makes a lasting impact on Lincoln County’s next generation.
