Train diligently.
Work confidently.
See lives improved.
Be well-informed.
Happy Valentines for veterans
2/19/2014  |
| Photos by Modisane Kwanza These handmade Valentine's Day cards were made by Goodwill Tulsa staff for area veterans. |
Goodwill staff prepared 372 Valentines for veterans in VA hospitals and nursing homes in Oklahoma and Arkansas. The creative outpouring was in support of “Valentines for Vets,” an annual program coordinated by Cherokee Nation. This was the third year that Goodwill Tulsa participated. Overall response this year was huge: Cherokee Nation received just over 4,500 Valentines.
The crafting session had the jovial feel of a grade-school art class. The small group of crafting volunteers cut, folded and weaved colored paper into heart-shaped cards. Some used scrapbook paper to make beautiful Valentine’s Day cards. Others signed pre-made cards, addressing them to “Our Hero” and including words of thanks from the individual or Goodwill.
“What a great time to remember our wonderful veterans,” said Nancy Webster, Community Relations Director. “Happy Valentine’s Day to them all!”
 |
| The Goodwill Tulsa volunteers used a pattern to make their crafts. |
Cherokee Nation delivered the Valentines to VA hospitals in Muskogee and Fayetteville, AR; VA nursing homes in Claremore and Talihina; and VA clinics in Jay, Vinita and Tulsa. The organization had enough Valentines to add some local nursing homes, assisted living facilities and Cherokee Nation Senior Nutrition sites.
“The veterans who receive these are extremely thankful and surprised,” wrote Jennifer Kirby with Cherokee Nation. “They appreciate that someone has put the time into making something for them.”
For the Goodwill Tulsa team, it was time well spent.
“My heart goes out to those people who are serving, their families and to all the people who have served our country in the past,” said Melinda Johnston, administrative assistant to the President. “A Valentine is a small gesture to say thank you for their service.”
