Mila Zink of the North Clay FFA in Illinois showcases her mission title.
North Clay FFA member Mila Zink started a mission last winter with the intention of supplying holiday cards to only a few local individuals. When she saw the appreciation and devotion in both people creating and receiving the cards, she decided to expand the project in which she titled The Happy Mail Mission.
Crafting Heartfelt Connections
The Happy Mail Mission is a holiday card drive dedicated to spreading Christmas cheer to residents of nursing homes, group homes and shelter care homes with cards made by the community. The project promotes card making stations during local events for any and every one to decorate and write a positive message to share.
A Joy in Giving
When Zink was asked why she started this operation she replied, “I started this project as a way to give back to the community. The town of Louisville has a large group home for adults, and I wanted to spread the Christmas spirit to their residents. Unfortunately, most citizens in such homes do not have a support system. I wanted to make as many people as possible feel love and joy during the holiday season.”
The mission started in the gym with her basketball team before practices. Today, it’s becoming known and recognized countywide.
Unlocking Extensive Remembrance
The Happy Mail Mission had its first public card-making station this year on Oct. 25 at the Louisville Fall Harvest Festival. The goal was to collect 40 cards that evening, and the event surpassed that goal by collecting over 60. The support received will help Zink exceptionally reach her goal of supplying holiday cards to all special care home residents throughout the county this holiday season.
Clay County Fair Queens write cards at the Louisville Fall Festival to help Zink accomplish her goal.
As for future years, Zink said, “I would love to expand and share the holiday spirit to all of our neighboring counties as well.”
For now, she plans on having more pop-up events throughout the community and is working on getting local schools, clubs and organizations involved. Zink said that she is “looking forward to growing this mission and reaching as many individuals as possible.”
After all, everyone deserves to feel love and care during the holiday season.
