Drumheller and District 4-H has found a way to remember one of their own through a new scholarship.
Carlie Bell of Orkney was a member of the Morrin 4-H Multi Club and was active on the Drumheller and District 4-H Council. She undertook an agricultural exchange to New Zealand. Upon completion she visited Australia before returning home. It is believed that while she was in Australia she was infected with Murray Valley encephalitis, a mosquito born virus. She passed away on May 23, 2011. “Carlie was very special to us,” said Janice Hoover, key leader for the Drumheller and District 4-H Council. “The Council wanted to do something to promote her vision for 4-H.”
Carlie had graduated from 4-H, but while she was on the council she was very interested in leadership and involvement in 4-H by senior members.
“She wanted the senior members to learn and use new skills and to stay in 4-H, help the new members and make it grow,” said Hoover.
It is with that in mind, the Council is establishing the Carlie Bell Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is aimed at senior members who are interested in giving back.
“Carlie wanted to keep senior members active in 4-H, so it is an award for senior members who are still active. They can get it by participation and contributing at the district and club levels, taking on key roles as a 4-H key member or 4-H Ambassador. It can be for 4-H leadership training, 4-H provides programs like Club Week,” said Hoover. “There are a variety of programs available, and there is a registration fee. So we are hoping the fund will encourage 4-Hers to attend those programs and gain those skills.”
Hoover said there is good support for establishing the funds from the clubs in the district. They are certainly open to accepting donations for the funds. The 4-H Foundation of Alberta will administer the Scholarship Fund.
“The Foundation will accept any donations, and forward tax receipts. They will take care of the funds so it is transparent and people can be acknowledged for their support,” said Hoover.
For Hoover, this is a fitting way to pay tribute, and they are planning to dedicate a plaque or trophy for a visual reminder.
“She was special to a lot of people, but to 4-H, she really spirited the Drumheller and District Council for a few years and we would like to acknowledge the work she started,” said Hoover.