4-H has a rich history in community service.  Part of the 4-H Pledge is we “pledge our hands to larger service.”  Engaging youth in a variety of community service opportunities allows them to learn the value of helping others, lets them build self-esteem from the positive results of service and of giving back to their communities.

Campbell County 4-Hers are involved in a variety of service projects each year such as visiting senior centers and adult day cares, donating to needy families during the holidays, making dog treats for the animal shelter and recently collaborated with the Disabled American Veterans Junior Auxiliary in making an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. more meaningful in thanking 70 Veterans for their service.

The 70 Veterans and their volunteer guardian escorts enjoyed an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.  Participants got to tour Washington, D.C. and see war memorials.  Each Veteran received a personalized bag of cards, and letters written by the 4-H and Jr Auxiliary members thanking them for their service.

As a result of this activity:

*the youth learned more about the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and that the national headquarters are located in Campbell County.  

*they learned what Honor Flights were and who is involved in them.

*the members are now more aware of the importance of thanking our veterans and active military men and women.

*the members learned to never take our freedom for granted.  Our country has been kept free due to all who have served and are currently serving to secure that freedom.

*the members learned that we must remember all Veterans who gave their lives, were wounded or disabled, so we can continue to have the freedoms we enjoy.

*the adult 4-H volunteer for this project, (Carla Kursell), will be recognized at the Kentucky Volunteer Forum with the Kentucky 4-H Community Service Award.  Carla, a Disabled American Veteran herself, served in the Navy during Desert Storm and both she and her husband come from military families.