To honor and recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day, students from Midland High and Dow High joined United Way of Midland County to make Valentine’s Day cards for neighbors receiving Meals on Wheels through Senior Services.
“We are grateful for our dedicated students, teachers, principals, and our partnership with United Way to make this one of our annual DEI initiatives across the district,” shared Yang Jiao (Joy), Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Midland Public Schools. “Today happens to be an extremely cold day with a winter weather alert, but our joint effort in this beautiful shared space will surely warm so many hearts!”
130 students from Midland High and Dow High joined United Way at Central Auditorium for the morning of MLK Day to hear from United Way team members about volunteerism and how they can get connected, followed by completing an impactful project together. The students created over 820 cards that will be delivered by Senior Services volunteers through their Meals on Wheels program this Valentine’s Day.
“At MPS, connecting our students with volunteer opportunities is so important,” said Penny Miller-Nelson, Superintendent of Midland Public Schools. “These opportunities not only enable our students to make a meaningful difference in the community, but they also bring together students from various schools to collaborate on a shared project, enjoy each other’s company, and build connections. We’re thankful for our partnership with United Way in making this project possible and hope the Valentine cards bring a sense of love and care to those receiving Meals on Wheels.”
United Way is committed to addressing food security and mental health. Last year, United Way funding helped deliver over 870 meals through the Meals on Wheels program. Loneliness is a significant issue for many seniors, with studies showing that nearly one in three older adults experience feelings of isolation. By adding a personal touch to each delivery, the Meals on Wheels program helps combat this loneliness, bringing not only nourishment but also a sense of connection and care to those in need. United Way’s efforts aim to ensure that recipients feel seen, loved, and supported by their community.
“Last year, I received a phone call from a neighbor who received a card,” said Megan Crockett, Volunteer Manager at United Way of Midland County. “They shared that this was the first Valentine’s card they had received since 1960 and they never thought they’d receive another. It really made them feel so loved. Not only do the meals bring nutritious food to seniors, but also a friendly visitor and the cards added something special to the delivery that day.”
Crockett continued to share that volunteerism is a priority at United Way. Projects like the one completed with MPS are just one way that volunteerism helps their funded partners beyond the dollars invested.
United Way and its partners rely on volunteers and there are always opportunities available for community members to join in. If you’re interested in finding a volunteer opportunity that’s right for you, visit volunteerglbr.org or reach out to Megan Crockett at megan@unitedwaymidland.org to get connected.
