Sunday, November 15, 2026
Teens at the North Bellmore Public Library learned a new skill while giving back to military members and veterans during a paracord bracelet workshop Oct. 20, ahead of Veterans Day.
The hands-on program was led by Eric Gaertner, a U.S. Air Force veteran and the library’s head of facilities, who taught participants how to create bracelets using paracord, a durable cord commonly used by military personnel.
The finished bracelets will be donated to Soldiers’ Angels, a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to service members, veterans and their families.
“I learned how to make paracord bracelets from a local Iraqi on base while I was deployed,” Gaertner said in a news release. “They are meaningful tokens of thought and care, representing both a practical purpose and a symbolic connection to military history. It was an honor to lead this program once again and teach the kids how to make them.”
Nancy DeLuca, the library’s head of teen services, organized the workshop, which Gaertner has led for several years. While previous sessions allowed teens to create bracelets and key chains to keep, this year’s program emphasized community service and appreciation for those who have served.
“The teens were eager to give back and show military members and veterans they appreciate their service,” DeLuca said in the release. “I am thankful for Mr. Gaertner’s willingness to lead the session and give the teens some real-world insight into the significance of service.”
Each bracelet included a personalized note and a QR code linking to a survey, giving recipients an opportunity to share where their bracelets ended up. Organizers hope the responses will help participants connect with the military members and veterans receiving their creations.
“It would be so meaningful for the teens to see their bracelets reach the people they were made for, perhaps even through a photo of a veteran wearing one. It would be a wonderful way to connect their efforts with the people they hope to honor,” DeLuca said.
The workshop is among several community service opportunities offered through the library’s teen programming. For more information, visit northbellmorelibrary.org/teens.
