Friends of the Animal Barn was founded in September of 2023 to provide support primarily for the animals at MSU Tollgate Farm and associated programming. Building programs around livestock and poultry provides opportunities otherwise unavailable in a suburban community.

Through our 4-H roots, we have seen the positive impact of the educational and 4-H programming on children at the farm. These children typically live in cities and have no connection to the farm beyond the grocery store. However, if they have an educational farm in their community, they can experience, hands-on, the work, the knowledge and the commitment needed to raise livestock and poultry.

Recently formed, we are looking forward to supporting the farm that supports our kids and our community in 2024 and beyond. We feel strongly that additional support will enhance the 4-H club opportunities and agricultural education programming at the farm.