make Valentines for military service personnel On Saturday, January 6, Orleans County 4-H members gathered to participate in a community service project to create Valentine's Day cards for United States Armed Forces men and women. This is the 11th year that Orleans County 4-H has participated in this community service project. The cards are distributed by an organization in North Carolina, Friends of Our Troops. Three years ago, Orleans County 4-H received national recognition for creating nearly 6,000 Valentine's Day cards, making them the top contributor for the Valentine's Day card campaign. Since then, restrictions put in place by Friends of Our Troops has led to a decrease in the number of cards made as 4-H members adjust to the changes and seek new ways to channel their creative energies and ideas. According to 4-H Team Coordinator Margo Bowerman, 1,536 cards were created this year, up from 873 cards last year. Bowerman said she was impressed by the quality, creativeness and appreciation for the service of the Armed Forces that the youth are displaying. Nearly 90 4-H members, leaders and parents participated in this community service activity. The Orleans County 4-H Senior Council sponsors the event by providing supplies, paying dues to Friends of Our Troops and mailing the cards. Funds are raised through the Senior Council Stand at the Orleans County 4-H Fair. January 21, 2007 |
