4-H campers put their hands to larger service
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Service has long been at the heart of the 4-H program, and this summer, Monongalia County 4-H members demonstrated what it means to pledge their "hands to larger service" through projects benefiting both their local community and Camp Muffly.
During Monongalia County Younger 4-H Camp, campers worked together to create 130 activity kits for children and families spending time at WVU Medicine Golisano Children's Hospital. The kits were filled with craft supplies, books and other activities designed to provide entertainment and brighten the days of families during their hospital stays.
The service project was organized and led by Monongalia County 4-H volunteer Millie Michael, who worked with campers to assemble the kits during camp.
Following camp, Haley Johnson and Erin Blake from WVU Medicine Golisano Children's Hospital visited the Monongalia County Extension Office to accept the donation. Monongalia County 4-H members Josie Tanton, Robin Anderson and Riley Michael joined Michael in presenting the completed activity kits.
Older 4-H campers also found a way to give back during their week at Camp Muffly. Campers rolled up their sleeves and gave the poles outside the camp's Assembly Hall a fresh coat of paint. Their work helped brighten the area and make it more welcoming for the many youth and families who will enjoy Camp Muffly in the future.
Both projects provided campers with an opportunity to see that service can take many forms -- from creating something to bring comfort to a child in the hospital to taking care of a place that has provided generations of 4-H members with lasting memories.
Community service is an important part of the 4-H experience and helps young people develop responsibility, compassion, teamwork and a desire to make a positive difference in their communities.
Monongalia County 4-H is proud of the members and volunteers who gave their time and talents to these projects this summer. Through their efforts, they demonstrated one of the most important lessons of the 4-H pledge: using their hands for larger service.
For those interested in learning more about the Monongalia County 4-H program and the many opportunities available for local youth, contact Becca Clark, Monongalia County 4-H & Youth Development Extension Agent, at Becca.Clark@mail.wvu.edu.