Students Show Compassion by Creating Cards for Others

Kalamazoo Valley students put their compassion into action during a community service project that was designed to spread holiday cheer. Honors Program participants and other students including those from the Kalamazoo Valley Accelerated Associate Program (KVAAP) and other student organizations gathered to create holiday cards for Residential Opportunities Inc. clients who are transitioning to independent living.

Honors student Audrey Mattson came up with the idea for the project. "At first, this project simply started as an idea in my head to help spread holiday cheer. I've always carried a deep passion for the arts," Mattson said, explaining that she graduated from high school with an Academic Excellence in the Fine Arts distinction. She started making holiday cards and then enlisted the help of her peers.

"At first I didn't know what organization I was going to donate cards to. I definitely knew, however, I wanted people to understand despite not being able to go home for Christmas and despite the recurring polarization in the world, there is light and love remaining. If I can be that light for someone, my life's purpose is fulfilled. I understand what it's like to feel washed out by my own problems and the problems that come with this world. Even if it's just for a moment, I wanted to bring the peace and joy to someone for the holidays."

Mattson contacted fellow Honors Program President Heather Weinert who volunteers for Kalamazoo's Coalition for the Unhoused. She eventually made the ROI connection and the duo set the project into motion.

Mattson and Weinert were joined at a recent card-making session by about 20 other students and communications instructor and Honors Program coordinator Jenny Ott and Honors Program director and political science instructor Kevin Dockerty.

"I've been doing art forever and I like to try new things," said psychology major Jessica Brown who is thinking about pursuing a career as an art therapist. "I love helping people - giving them cheer and a little confidence boost," she said.

Engineering major Korbin Ridderman, who serves as Honors Program vice president, agreed. "I like doing things for the community," he said. "It's nice that this will make a difference locally."

Mattson was pleased with the turnout. "It's a great feeling," she said. "Even though times are hard, there are still people who care for one another."

Student Kentaro Batai echoed Mattson's sentiments. "I just don't want anyone to feel alone during the holidays. They aren't alone and there are people who care."

"I'm pretty excited about the project," said Weinert. "I think the recipients are really going to enjoy these cards."

Ott, too, was happy that so many students chose to participate. "I am totally impressed by how these young people give back to the community so easily. This is a busy time of year for everyone and they set aside the time to do something kind for others. They are the kind of selfless people we encounter every day at Kalamazoo Valley."