Members of the SkillsUSA chapter at South Arkansas College recently joined together to create more than 100 handmade Christmas cards for residents at Hudson Memorial Nursing Home.
What began as a simple idea for a community service project a few years ago has become a hands-on lesson in collaboration and teamwork, chapter leaders said. Students organized themselves into groups where they helped each other with designing cards, crafting artwork, writing messages and assembling final touches.
The project also offered students an opportunity to connect with the community in a thoughtful way, especially during a season that can feel lonely for many long-term care residents. Students said that one of the most rewarding parts of the activity was imagining how the cards might bring joy to their recipients. Each card contained a handwritten holiday message, often accompanied by cheerful drawings and festive colors.
“Writing Christmas cards for our nursing home residents makes me realize how much joy a simple gesture can bring,” SkillsUSA member Saniah Reynolds said. “SkillsUSA has taught me the value of serving with compassion, and I’m truly thankful for every opportunity to make someone feel loved and remembered.”
The project employed portions of the SkillsUSA mission by emphasizing leadership and service, and building the soft skills desired by employers.