Harrison County 4-H Campers Honor Hospitalized Veterans with ‘Waves of Gratitude’
CLARKSBURG — In 4-H, members pledge their hands to larger service. Harrison County 4-H campers and staff truly embodied that promise during their 2026 summer camps by launching a service-learning initiative titled “Waves of Gratitude.”
Organized in honor of the nation’s Semiquincentennial celebration, the project united youth of all ages to bring comfort and encouragement to local veterans.
On June 26, younger and older campers gathered during a special service session to assemble 200 care kits for hospitalized veterans at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center. Each kit was thoughtfully packed with a crossword or word search booklet, a pencil, a highlighter, a decorated notebook, a patriotic tissue pack, and a stress star complete with an “Old Glory” card. Most importantly, every kit featured a heartfelt, handwritten message from a camper.
The service project continued on July 23, when Cloverbud Day Campers assembled and decorated 100 shirt-styled tray favors filled with hard candy to complement the care kits.
On August 3, the completed kits and favors were officially presented to Toni Siebert, Voluntary Services Specialist for the Center for Development and Civic Engagement at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center. The Harrison County 4-H program extends its sincere thanks to all participating campers and staff for the compassion and creativity that brought smiles to those who have served our country.
The 2026 Multi-Camp Service Projects were made possible by a generous donation from Bradley T. Bowden, given in memory of William “Bill” Freyler, a dedicated 4-H All Star from Ohio County.
Bowden, who grew up in Harrison County, later moved and formed a deep friendship with Freyler.
This project served as a meaningful way to honor a dear friend by giving back to the local 4-H program where Bowden’s own journey began.
The WVU Extension – Harrison County 4-H Program is open to youth in Kindergarten through age 21.
A new club year begins October 1.
Families interested in joining or learning more are encouraged to contact the WVU Extension – Harrison County office at 304-624-8650.
Editor’s Note: Harrison County 4-H campers, camp staff, and Toni Siebert, Voluntary Services Specialist from the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center (standing far right), gather during the presentation of the “Waves of Gratitude” care kits and tray favors. (Photo courtesy of WVU Extension – Harrison County)