Pleasants County 4-H teen leaders made a case for building friendship with local nursing facility
Many residents have to leave the comfort of their home, neighbors, friends, and most of their personal belongings when they move into a nursing facility to receive care. The Pleasants County 4-H teen leaders wanted to ensure that the residents know that they are valued and acknowledged for their roles in the community. The teens made a case for friendship with residents by bringing a small source of comfort to those who may need a helping hand.
Under the leadership of 4-H'er Mariah Evans, the teens formed a plan to provide residents with a homemade pillowcase to offer the residents happiness, comfort, and an offering of friendship. The teens applied and received a My Hands to Larger Service mini-grant to support their plan. Additionally, the 4-H teens sought help from their 4-H leaders, volunteers, and a community needlework group. These adults helped the teens "learn by doing" while demonstrating and teaching the youths sewing skills and how to use sewing machines.
The 4-H teen leaders created unique 32 pillowcases to be given to the nursing facility residents. Members worked with community members to make the pillowcases. As a result, the 4-H teens were able to gain practice life skills like operating a sewing machine and ironing. The nursing facility residents were very appreciative of the pillowcases and that the 4-H teens wanted to do something special just for them.
In addition to the My Hands to Larger Service Mini-grant, this project was financially supported by a private donation. The My Hands to Larger Service Mini-grants in West Virginia started in 2020 and are funded by the West Virginia 4-H All Stars.
Learn more about the mini-grant program