4-H Emerald Clover Society
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Recognized by
Michigan 4-H Youth Development

With support from
Michigan 4-H Foundation

Last updated: September 6, 2002

   The Emerald Clover Society reflects the ultimate outcome of 4-H membership—extraordinary use of an individual's head, heart, hands and health to make our communities, our country and our world a better place in which to live.
   
2002 4-H Centennial Alumni: The Inaugural Class of the Emerald Clover Society
   

Donald W. GastDonald W. Gast, Berrien County 4-H'er

Senior Vice-President,
Southwestern Medical Clinic, P.C.

“4-H taught me many values such as honesty, integrity, commitment, hard work and the value of serving the community. 4-H also encouraged me to work with others.”

Donald Gast, senior vice-president of the Southwestern Medical Clinic in Berrien Springs, is credited with expanding the clinic from one independent location and five employees to 12 satellite medical facilities and 250 employees, including 44 physicians and nine licensed counselors. Today, the clinics provide more than $9 million in healthcare and related services. Gast has helped establish medical clinics in three California cities and has worked in clinics based in Haiti, Liberia, West Africa and Russia. His public service includes 29 years as the Baroda Township treasurer and three years as the township’s supervisor.

Gast is a member of the Southwest Michigan Commission and has served as its president and vice-chairperson. He has been or continues to be a member and serve on boards of directors of 16 community organizations and agencies. He is also founder and board member of the Five Pines Christian Family Center. He was awarded the Lorren Gettel Award for Outstanding Service and Dedication to the Citizens of Rural Michigan, presented by the Michigan Center for Rural Health, and the Welch Lackey Award, presented by the Southwest Michigan Commission to individuals who have demonstrated service, leadership and intergovernmental cooperation.