People across the region are being asked to help with the 6th Annual Valentine Cards for Seniors project, a local effort to bring handmade cards to seniors in assisted living homes, senior centers, and other housing in the area.
Organizers are calling on anyone who wants to help to get involved.
The project is hosted by Sparks City Councilman Donald Abbott and a few other community members.
This year, organizers hope to deliver 3,500 cards to local seniors, including 1,100 through the Meals on Wheels program.
Volunteers have two key deadlines: cards for Meals on Wheels need to be dropped off by 5 p.m. on February 1, and all remaining cards must be submitted by 7 p.m. on February 4. After the final deadline, the cards will be sorted and delivered to seniors the following week.
Organizers are encouraging families, students, and local schools to participate. “We need homemade Valentine’s/Friendship cards for our senior population in town! We are looking to partner up with some local schools as well as parents in the community. If your child or students want to make some or ask their teacher if their class and/or school would like to make some, that would be great!” the project flyer reads.
Cards can be dropped off at two locations: Boulevard Pizza, 1076 Rock Boulevard Suite #105 in Sparks, and Reno Public Market, 299 E. Plumb Lane in Reno.
Organizers request that cards be larger than 5" by 5" so they are easy for seniors to see.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to fill out a Google Form online or call Donald Abbott at (775) 771-8674, Rikki Melanaphy at (775) 544-2192, or Jose "Chava" Espana at (775) 589-0266 for more information.
The initiative aims to spread positivity and connection among the senior community, emphasizing quality over quantity in each card.
