To give back, WVU Alumni Association brings together Mountaineers for national service project

Demonstrating the broad reach, strength and dedication of Mountaineer Nation, the West Virginia University Alumni Association is launching its annual national service project to benefit WVU Medicine Golisano Children's.

Now in its third year, the popular Bears and Blankets initiative brings together WVU alumni chapters, students and University supporters to collect stuffed animals, blankets and financial donations for children and families receiving care.

"The Bears and Blankets program demonstrates the very best of the Mountaineer family," said Kevin Berry, vice president of Alumni Relations and CEO of the WVU Alumni Association.

"No matter where our alumni live, they continue to answer the call to serve others. Seeing Mountaineers across the country rally together to support children and families in need is a powerful reflection of who we are as a University."

In 2025, University alumni collected more than 900 new stuffed animals and blankets, along with nearly $10,000 in monetary contributions.

"The Bears and Blankets campaign is such a meaningful example of Mountaineers helping Mountaineers," said Erin Blake, director of Community and Donor Relations at WVU Medicine Golisano Children's.

"For children coming to the hospital for treatment, something soft and comforting can make a stressful experience feel a little less overwhelming. We are deeply appreciative of the WVU Alumni Association chapters that support this effort each year."

Rooted in service - one of the core Mountaineer Values - alumni chapters across the United States organize Bears and Blankets donation drives throughout the year while also encouraging financial contributions to help expand the program's reach.

The initiative welcomes participation from both WVU alumni and community members interested in supporting children and families receiving care.

Those interested in supporting the initiative can connect with their local participating WVU Alumni chapter or visit the WVU Alumni Association website to learn more.

The WVU Alumni Association serves and supports WVU and its global network of alumni. Through programs, events and outreach, the Association fosters lifelong connections and advances the mission of the University.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Kallie Nealis
Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications
WVU Alumni Association
304-293-2786; [email protected]

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