4-H Senior Council Friendship Bracelet Project Wins 2nd Place at National DAR Jr American Citizens Contest

 

4-H Senior Council Friendship Bracelet Project wins second place at the national dar jr american citizens contest

 

Written by Melissa Bright, 4-H Agent

During the season of giving, Somerset County 4-H Senior Council members came together for a heartfelt, hands-on service project that combined creativity, teamwork, and compassion. With the goal of spreading joy to children facing medical challenges, the council created 124 friendship bracelet kits to donate to St. Peter’s Hospital offering patients a small but meaningful source of comfort and encouragement during the holidays.

From Idea to Impact

The project began at a Senior Council meeting, where members brainstormed meaningful and inclusive ways to give back to their community. After thoughtful discussion, the council selected the friendship bracelet project because it closely aligned with the core 4-H values of service, leadership, and compassion. Members were especially drawn to a project that was hands-on, collaborative, and had a direct impact on children in need—particularly during the holiday season.

Working Together to Give Back

Senior Council members, along with additional 4-H club members, assembled the bracelet kits during 4-H Gives Thanks and at club meetings. This collaborative approach allowed many youth to participate, share ideas, and take ownership of the project.

Each kit included a bracelet string, beads, packaging, and simple instructions, giving recipients the opportunity to create their own bracelets and express creativity while healing.

Purpose with Heart

The primary goal of the project was to bring comfort, encouragement, and joy to children receiving care at St. Peter’s Hospital. At the same time, Senior Council members strengthened their leadership and civic engagement skills by planning, organizing, and completing a meaningful community service initiative.

The experience fostered teamwork, decision-making, and reflection, key elements of positive youth development through 4-H.

Planning for Success

To ensure the project stayed on track, the council followed a structured plan:

  • Proposal and approval at a Senior Council meeting

  • Identification and organization of supplies

  • Assembly of kits across multiple meetings and events

  • Ongoing progress tracking to meet their goal

  • Final delivery of all 124 kits to St. Peter’s Hospital

By utilizing existing supplies and member contributions, the council successfully completed the project with minimal additional cost while maximizing impact.

Measurable Impact and Recognition

The success of the project was evident in both tangible and meaningful ways. A total of 124 friendship bracelet kits were donated, while strong participation, collaboration, and enthusiasm were seen among members throughout the process. Positive feedback from hospital staff further highlighted the impact of the project on patients.

In recognition of their outstanding work and youth leadership, the project earned:

  • First Place (Local Level) – Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Junior American Citizens Contest, Community Service Group Entry

  • Second Place (National Level) – DAR Junior American Citizens Contest, Community Service Group Entry (Grade 12)

These honors reflect the dedication, creativity, and civic responsibility demonstrated by Somerset County 4-H Senior Council members.

A Lasting Lesson

This friendship bracelet project showcases the power of youth-led service. Through creativity, cooperation, and compassion, Somerset County 4-H members demonstrated that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact, bringing smiles to children in need while building leadership skills and a lifelong commitment to community service.

 
 
 
Somerset County 4-HMaking a Difference