OHIO VALLEY (WTRF) — It was a generous donation that will benefit two local organizations in a big way.

On Friday, the Ohio Valley Jaycees Charitable Fund presented two checks totaling $10,000.

That money was split between the Appalachian Christmas Project and Ohio Valley Young Life.

The Young Life Organization serves teen parents and underprivileged and disabled children throughout the area.

The Appalachian Christmas Project offers hope and encouragement to area seniors, veterans, and the homeless. They distribute personal hygiene items to individuals, service agencies, and drug rehab centers.

We are so thankful for all of the generosity of the Jaycee’s fund. Young Life has been serving the Ohio Valley for over 50 years. We are using this for general programing, mentoring for teen parents and their children and disabled middle and high school students.”

Sean McCartney, Area Director, Young Life

We serve other areas as well. Anywhere from locally into Kentucky. But this is designated money for Ohio and Marshall County and I’m just thankful we have it because we serve so many in these two counties as well.”

Diane Reineke Stout, CEO Appalachian Christmas Project

Last year the Appalachian Christmas Project serves over 1,000 people in Ohio County and over 800 in Marshall County.

Visitors encouraged to complete summer bucket list for a chance to win a free fall getaway

WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) — The West Virginia Department of Tourism, in partnership with Oglebay and Wheeling Park Commission, has announced a new Almost Heaven swing located in the state’s northern panhandle.

This swing is perched upon the scenic mountains of Oglebay, just off the Susan Wheeler Walking Trail on the western side of the arboretum. 

“We are proud to participate in this West Virginia Tourism-led initiative, generously supported by a gift from Cindy and Chris Freeman,” said Oglebay Marketing Director Wendy Hodorowski. “The swing is located to showcase one of the park’s most amazing views, which will undoubtedly become a social media moment that generates both statewide and national attention for Oglebay Park.”

There are now more than 20 Almost Heaven photo-op swings available throughout the state, making it easy for travelers to check off this adventure on the West Virginia Summer Bucket List.

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos on social media using #AlmostHeaven. 

“Visiting the newest Almost Heaven swing location in Wheeling is the perfect way to start checking off your West Virginia Summer Bucket List,”said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “Our summer bucket list will make your travel planning easier and offers an opportunity to win a free autumn getaway.”

Oglebay encompasses more than 2,000 acres of year-round activities including a golf course, pool, zoo, walking trails, Bissonnette Gardens, horseback riding, on-site restaurants and more. 

To view the 2024 West Virginia Summer Bucket List and begin checking off your adventures, visit wvtourism.com/summer-bucket-list. For a complete list of swing locations, click here.