Camp Fire Central Oregon is once again warming hearts through its beloved Valentine’s for Veterans community event, held on Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service, Monday, January 20.
This annual volunteer event takes place in the morning and welcomes both community members and Camp Fire friends to connect and create handcrafted Valentine’s Day cards for United States veterans. Camp Fire provides all materials for the event, encouraging participants to bring their creativity and gratitude. Completed cards will be delivered to service members at the regional veterans hospital on Valentine’s Day, February 14.
In addition, while crafting away, everyone will get to hear firsthand about serving in the military, thanks to Camp Fire’s guest speaker and local veteran Anne Graham (aka “Tall Annie“).
“Each year, this event grows in participation and impact, and it’s become quite cherished by many community members, not to mention our campers,” says Kecia Kubota, executive director of Camp Fire Central Oregon. “It’s a beautiful way to connect with our community and express gratitude to those who’ve served while honoring Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service, compassion and inclusion. We’re thrilled to host this meaningful gathering again in 2025.”
Open to all ages, Valentine’s for Veterans is more than a crafting event—it’s a chance to foster connection and give back. Volunteers are also invited to assist with setup and teardown, ensuring the event runs smoothly. Registration is encouraged through Connect Central Oregon, but walk-ins are welcome.
Event Details
What: Valentine’s for Veterans – a community crafting event hosted by Camp Fire Central Oregon in honor of MLK Jr. National Day of Service
When: Monday, January 20, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Bend Church-United Methodist, 680 NW Bond St, Bend, OR 97703
Registration: Connect Central Oregon (registration encouraged, not required), https://volunteer.connectcentraloregon.org/need/detail/?need_id=1018262
Valentine’s for Veterans coincides with Camp Fire’s No School Day Camp since Bend-La Pine schools are out that day, as well as a Teen Connects event, whereby teens can sign up to volunteer as part of their own service and outreach for the community on this special holiday.
Says Kubota, “From our campers to our teen participants and the public at large, everyone can get involved and join us for this memorable time of gratitude, connection and crafting, heartfelt fun!”
About Camp Fire Central Oregon: Founded in 1910, Camp Fire is a national organization that actively engages youth and teens in building essential skills for life. Camp Fire Central Oregon has been a local leader in youth development since 1916. The organization provides out-of-school time, teen service and leadership, camp and environmental programs. Young people want to shape the world. Camp Fire provides the opportunity to help them find their spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.
