Connecting community, creativity and Michigan 4-H
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EmailCadillac’s Bear Lairs Adventure Tour launches with some help from 4-H HealthCorps alum and Wexford County 4-H.
The greater Cadillac area’s beloved Caddy Bear can always be found at local events or wandering around town to share fun and exciting things with residents. This year, he’s taking exploration to the next level with the launch of the brand-new Bear Lairs Adventure Trail! This new addition invites families and visitors to wander through the city and scenic paths to discover miniature scenes tucked in hidden lairs along the way.
This year’s kickoff comes with a special 4-H touch, thanks to Marla Courtney, an AmeriCorps member who served with Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H HealthCorps Program during the 2024-25 term. Known for her creative approach to social and emotional learning, Marla helped bring the Adventure Trail to life through her 4-H Mindful Miniatures and CAPS Crew clubs. These programs gave youth the chance to explore something new in a supportive environment, connect with their community, and experience the wide variety of experiences 4-H offers, all while building valuable skills like teamwork, empathy and resilience.
Marla’s work with 4-H is all about blending fun with meaningful lessons. From diorama-building to role-playing adventures, her clubs create spaces where every child feels like they belong.
“When you take a curriculum and actually have fun with it, you’re going to inspire and impact people,” Marla said. “I try to make my programs unique and engaging. I see connections everywhere.”
The Adventure Trail reflects that philosophy perfectly. Youth involved in Marla’s special interest clubs contributed creative ideas and hands-on work to help make the trail a reality, proving that community building, creativity and learning can go hand-in-hand.
“Why can’t youth build community in everyday things they do?” Marla asked. “You’re teaching kids to be engaged, you’re pouring into the community, and you’re making your own work more meaningful all at once.”
Visitors can now stroll through Cadillac’s scenic paths and discover enchanting miniature worlds tucked into Bear Lairs along the trail, a testament to what happens when creativity, community and youth engagement come together.
Want to experience the magic? Check out the Adventure Trail and Bear Lairs in Cadillac. To learn more about Wexford County MSU Extension 4-H programs, contact Michelle Neff at hydemich@msu.edu or visit MSU Extension Wexford County.
Interested in joining 4-H HealthCorps or becoming an AmeriCorps member? Contact Andrea Villanueva at villan17@msu.edu.
