United Way News

 

EMPTY STOCKING FUND COLLECTING MONETARY DONATIONS The Bladen and Robeson County Empty Stocking Funds are collecting donations to ensure that children in both counties have a wonderful Holiday Season! The Empty Stocking Fund is a collaboration between the Bladen Journal, The Robesonian, and the Bladen & Robeson Department of Social Services. Please consider contributing by mailing a check to Lumber River United Way at PO Box 2652, Lumberton, NC 28359. or donating online

Lumber River United Way Lucky Duck Derby The Lucky Duck Derby is back! Join us on Saturday, March 8th at 2:15 pm on the Riverwalk in downtown Lumberton for the largest rubber duck race east of the Mississippi! $2,500 GRAND PRIZE Proceeds benefit Dolly Parton's Imagination Library in Dillon and Robeson Counties. Each duck ticket purchased provides a child with a book per month for one year! You can purchase a lone duck for $20 or a quack pack (6 for $100) from any United Way board or staff member. Duck tickets may also be purchased on United Way's website.

Lumber River United Way 2024 Campaign A big shout out to Peterson Toyota and CITGO—Fueling Good for sponsoring LRUW's 2024 Campaign $5,000 Fair Share Giveaway! FAIR SHARE IS ONE HOURS PAY PER MONTH FOR ONE YEAR. There's still time to participate in LRUW's 2024 Campaign and impact the lives of our neighbors in need. Visit LRUW's website for details!

[910-739-4249] | [www.lumberriveruw.org]

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4-H Snowflake Celebration

 

It's that time of year folks.  Time to recognize our youth and volunteers for a years worth of hard work and maybe some fun along the way.  As Jade and I sit here tabulating up what you have done I think you will be amazed at the impact you have made in the community.  

  That being said...we will release the awards segment of our program the evening of Friday, December 13 across our social media channels and right here on the blog.  Based on your feedback we will have an open house celebration on Saturday, December 14 from 10 until 2 at our office.  There will be a tree to trim, games, crafts, community service project (donating gently used and new books), hot chocolate bar, edible snowman construction boxes, and a snowball fight area.  All family friendly and a great time for folks to pick up their awards and gifts.  Drop in whenever you can and please make sure to register (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1076634626149?aff=oddtdtcreator) so that we can prepare enough for everyone (afterall we don't want to run short of snow balls...even though we are planning to let our youth make snow at the event).

  Just like a snowflake, our 4-H members and volunteers are one of a kind.  We can't wait to recognize everyone and have a celebration for you that will be like no other.  Come out and have a ball, a snowball that is.   

Aspiring Film Makers?

 

My name is Brielle Barozzini and I am organizing a student film festival in collaboration with the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and 100 Strong Productions. I wanted to share more about the festival and to see if you would be willing to share about this opportunity within Robeson County.

 

The film festival is for North Carolina middle school, high school, and undergraduate students. Films can be of any genre and must be under 15 minutes to be considered. Our prompt is that we are looking for films that uplift counties and local governments. We are accepting submissions through January 15th and the festival will be in Raleigh next May. 

 

Films that are selected to be a part of the 100 Strong Productions Student Film Festival will have the opportunity to be awarded a prize package valued up to $1,000. 

 

Here is our film festival website: https://www.100strongproductions.com/student-film-festival

Here is our submission page: https://filmfreeway.com/100StrongProductionsStudentFilmFestival

Just a quick overview you can be in middle school, high school, or and undergraduate college student to participate.  There is a $20 fee for each submission.  Videos can be 1-15 minutes long.  

FILM PROMPT : 

We are looking for stories that uplift North Carolina counties and local governments. 

What does this prompt mean? 

Here are some examples:

• Ask to spend a day with a county employee (e.g., county Finance Department, Parks & Recreation Department, EMS Department, and more)

• Interview a county commissioner or local government leader. 

• Attend a local Board of County Commissioners meeting.

• Attend a local government event. Check for event listings on county websites. For example, in Wake County, there are organized nature hikes, county library events and a variety of board meetings listed on the website calendar.

• Check out the NCACC County Lines video series for more inside county government inspiration. You can also run any ideas by the100 Strong Productions team by sending an email to 100strong@ncacc.org

 

Family Canning Night

 

We are excited to offer a brand new opportunity, Family Canning Night.  4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences are partnering for this first ever opportunity.  On December 11, from 6-8 pm, we will offer a canning safety class with practical experience as you make and can Tomato Jam as a family.  The cost is $10 per family (up to four people per family).  This cost will cover supplies.  Registration is on a first come first serve basis and must be done in person with payment at our office at 455 Caton Road, Lumberton, NC 28360.  There is a limit of 16 people for the class.   For questions please contact Wendy Maynor, Family Consumer Science Extension Agent at Wendy_Maynor@ncsu.edu or Shea Ann DeJarnette, 4-H Extension Agent at Shea_Ann_DeJarnette@ncsu.edu.   

JMG Celebration

   

There was a challenge and the challenge was accepted.  Dirty Rascal Junior Master Gardener Leaders said if the youth planted sunflowers and they won at the fair there would be a club party added to the meetings at the end of the year.  Guess what happened?  

   Multiple first place wins for the JMG's so club members mark your calendar and register for your end of the year celebration!  You won't want to miss it.  Also don't forget to register on Eventbrite for all the fun.  Must be a member of the JMGs to register and actively registered in 4-H Online to attend.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dirty-rascals-jmg-celebration-tickets-1077716461949?aff=oddtdtcreator

Veteran's Day Celebrations

   

Below is a message from Chris Oxendine, the Director of Veteran Affairs in Robeson County about upcoming Veteran's Day Celebrations.  Please note this is a great Civic Engagement Opportunity for our youth.

      I wanted to share information about Veterans Day ceremonies being held on Monday November 11th, 2024, happening in Robeson County.  Please share this information with staff, family and friends.  This coming Monday November 11^th is Veterans Day, if you are able to please take some time to attend these events.  Veterans have fought and some never came home from fighting, many came home with physical injuries, and many came home with mental conditions.  They fought by putting their lives on the line in service of this great country so that we can have the freedoms we have today.  They did id unselfishly without a second thought.  A veteran is someone who wrote a blank check made payable to The United States of America for an amount up to and including their life.  Please see the list below of ceremonies that will he held on Monday November 11th, in honor of Veterans Day.

Town of Fairmont will host a Veterans Day ceremony at the Heritage Center located on Main Street at 11:00AM.  Guest speaker will be Rev. Kerry Barr

Town of St. Pauls will host a memorial service at 11:00AM located at War Memorial building following all day festivities.

Town of Rowland will host a Veterans Day luncheon at 11:00AM located at Depot.

Town of Pembroke will have a Veterans Day parade at 10:00AM starting at Pembroke Elementary and ending at UNC-Pembroke / Railroad St. next to Burger King.  There will be a Veterans Day ceremony following parade at 11:00AM located at Milton R. Hunt Memorial Park, guest speaker will be Eric Oxendine.

The DAV chapter 7 will be hosting a Veterans Day ceremony at 11:00AM at the DAV building located on Hwy 41 going to Fairmont.

Also, please see enclosed flyer and link for Veterans Day discounts on restaurants and retailers on Monday November 11th, 2024.

2024 Veterans Day deals

"The willingness of Americas veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude".  Please share and pass on this information and have a blessed day.

Tips for Applying to NCSU

 Good morning - 

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you today as the Associate Dean and Director of CALS Academic Programs with a request that you assist me in Growing the Pack! 

You are keenly aware that agriculture is the backbone of North Carolina’s economy. The success of this sector is not only vital for our economy but also for the sustenance and well-being of our communities. The role of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences cannot be overstated. CALS is at the forefront of agricultural education, research, and extension services, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex challenges facing modern agriculture, from sustainable farming practices to innovative biotechnologies.

As we face global challenges, the need for well-trained graduates who can lead and innovate in the agricultural sector is more pressing than ever. CALS is uniquely positioned to meet this demand, but Academic Programs cannot do it alone. I need your assistance in reaching students we hope to enroll in our high-need majors.

As a former first-generation student, I can personally attest that there is always a path to NC State. I didn’t start in CALS, but it is where I finished. Remember, the answer is always no if you don’t apply.

My team and I are eager to engage with those in your community. For those just now starting to consider a college degree, I ask that you share this link with them: go.ncsu.edu/calsinterest. We’ll provide information about opportunities, scholarships, and extend invitations to come Spend a Day at State.

For students already preparing their application, we created a “3 Tips to Make Your NC State Application Shine” video, which is packed with helpful tips to guide students through the process and ensure their application stands out.

Here’s a quick look at what they’ll learn:

• Start Early: Applying Early Action to NC State can help students reduce stress and give them priority consideration for scholarships and the Honors Program.
• Be Honest: Encourage students to be genuine and share their goals, hopes and dreams in their essays. A clear, authentic story is key to showing how NC State is the right fit for them.
• Believe in Yourself: Remind them to highlight their unique achievements and personal growth. NC State Admissions looks at every applicant holistically.

Please share the video with students you know to help them feel more confident as they complete the application process. For more information on applying to CALS, visit Guidance for Applicants.

Thank you for your continued support in guiding future Wolfpack members!

Go Pack!

Youth Advocacy

 This is a message shared by Dr. Mike Yoder to all 4-H Agents.  

Good Afternoon!

 

I hope you're doing well. My name is Kelvin and I'm the Director of Community Engagement at NC Child. Applications are now open for our 2024-25 Youth Advocacy Council! The YAC gives high school students the opportunity to build advocacy skills by meeting with state and local elected officials about youth mental health issues. Would you please share this opportunity with students in your network? The application, official email and website link on the program is attached below.

 

We are seeking students who are representative of all of North Carolina, including non-college-track students, students of color, and rural students. As such, we encourage students without any advocacy experience to apply as long as they are passionate and have an eagerness to learn and grow within their skillsets. Thank you for your time!

 

Website Link: Youth Advocacy Council - NC Child

 

 

 

 

 

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you want to build leadership and advocacy skills while influencing state and local policies? If so, the NC Child Youth Advocacy Council (YAC) is looking for you!

 

The NC Child Youth Advocacy Council is a unique opportunity for high school students across North Carolina to have their voices heard and be part of meaningful change.

 

As a member of YAC, you will:

• Advocate for policies that impact youth, especially around youth mental health
• Engage with policymakers to help shape decisions at the state and local levels
• Develop skills in leadership, advocacy, and communication

 

Who Should Apply?

We are seeking high school students (grades 9-12) from diverse geographic areas of North Carolina, with a range of backgrounds and experiences. You don’t need prior political experience; you just need a passion for creating change and the confidence to share your unique perspective on the issues affecting young people. We especially encourage students from all walks of life, whether on a college or non-college track to apply.

 

Program Details:

• Term: January 1 – August 1, 2025
• Meetings: Hybrid (virtual and in-person), with stipends and reimbursement for travel
• Stipend: You will receive a flat-rate stipend for your involvement ($750)

 

Why Apply?

Since its creation almost ten years ago, YAC members have tackled issues like the vaping epidemic, youth mental health, and access to resources for their peers. If interested, this is your chance to bring your voice and passion to the table for the next generation of youth-led policy solutions!

 

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application by November 15^th, 2024, and take the first step toward becoming a youth advocate. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Josh McGee at josh@ncchild.org.

Together, we can make a difference for North Carolina's future!

 

Apply Here

 

Helping Hands

Dear North Carolina 4-H Family and Friends,

We hope this message finds you safe and well. 

We are deeply moved by the overwhelming support and love we have received from across the nation. As we navigate the path to recovery in the wake of the recent devastation in our mountains, we understand that the journey ahead will be challenging. The winds may have destroyed homes, and the waters may have washed away the familiar, but amidst this chaos, we also witness the remarkable strength of a community united by a spirit that no storm can extinguish.

In times of darkness, communities like ours have shown time and time again that they can rise from the ashes of tragedy. We are more than the damage that’s been done. We are children's laughter, the hands that help one another, and the deep ties that connect families, neighbors, and friends. The heart of Western Carolina beats strong, and though the path may be long, it is in the process of rebuilding that true strength will emerge.

So many have asked how best to help, so we have compiled a list of potential opportunities. Please consider contributing to one or both of these efforts, and let this be a moment to remind each other that no storm is stronger than the human spirit.  Please visit our Helpful Hands, Healing Hearts Website for ways to participate. 

• 4-H Clover Care Packages

• The NC 4-H team suggests that adoption states, county teams, 4-H clubs, families, or individuals create and donate youth activity kits. These kits will provide opportunities for youth to be creative and engage in activities that provide distraction and a time for processing emotions through coloring, writing, or other means of active expression. Western NC counties have indicated their needs and capacity at this time, on the signup. Our sign-up will be updated monthly as needs change, so please check back often. Items we recommend, including in the kits now, are: 

• Coloring books & crayons/colored pencils: To encourage creativity and help them express their feelings.

• Winter clothing items: gloves, hats, scarves, coats, etc. 

• Blank notebooks or journals: For drawing, writing, or journaling to cope with emotions.

• Stickers: Fun and easy to use, adding a playful element to their creativity.

• Stuffed animals or plush toys: For emotional comfort.

• Small blankets: Cozy and comforting, providing a sense of security.

• Handmade cards or notes: Personal messages of hope and encouragement from others.

• Puzzle books: Simple crosswords, word searches, or mazes for distraction and mental engagement.

• Card games: Compact and easy-to-learn games like UNO or Go Fish.

• Travel-sized board games: For fun, easy-to-carry games that others can share.

• STEM activity kits: Simple science or engineering activities to stimulate curiosity.

• Bubbles: Easy to play with and lighthearted fun for children of all ages.

• Jump ropes: For physical activity and a way to burn off energy.

• Sidewalk chalk: To encourage outdoor play and creativity.

• Stress balls: To help manage anxiety and stress.

• Mindfulness or relaxation cards: Simple breathing exercises or calming activities.

• Storybooks: Positive, uplifting stories to distract and entertain.

• Toiletries: Small toothbrush kits, combs, and soap—practical items that may be missing.

• Reusable water bottles: Keeping hydrated while also providing something personal.

• Snacks: Non-perishable, kid-friendly snacks like granola bars or fruit snacks.

• Photos or messages of hope from peers: To help them feel connected.

• Temporary tattoos or wristbands: Fun and cheerful, offering small but meaningful excitement.

• Youth Belong Program Monetary Donations

• Many NC 4-H Youth lost everything to this storm. They and their families will spend years recovering. Funding for normal enrichment and summer activities will be the last thing on their minds. However, the ability to stay connected to their 4-H family will be an essential part of their healing journey. We invite you to donate funds to help youth in Western North Carolina affected by the storm to attend 4-H programs that they will otherwise not be able to afford. 

• Both our NC 4-H Honor Club and NC Volunteer Leaders Association are taking the lead on this effort. Monetary donations can be made by check to either. 

• NC 4-H Honor Club / Checks Payable to:  NC 4-H Honor Club

• ATTN:  Shannon McCollum, 4-H Youth Dev. Specialist, Box 7655 NCSU, Raleigh, NC 27695-7655

• NC 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association / Checks Payable to:  NC 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association

• ATTN: Diane Sturges, NCVLA Financial Officer, 12156 NC Highway 125, Halifax, NC 27839-9525

• Send a Western youth to summer camp and 4-H Congress scholarships are available on the Signup Genius.

• Donations can be earmarked for specific impacted counties and their general fund -or- specific 4-H programs if desired. Simply list this on the memo line of your check or in the note section via the online payment system. Program Areas include: Teen Retreats, Overnight Summer Camp, 4-H Congress. Proceeds will benefit 4-H programs in the West district of North Carolina.   

Together, we can bring hope and relief to those in need. Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this challenging time.

Sincerely, 

The NC 4-H State Team

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