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Love in the Community: Illuminating Valentine's Day with Acts of Kindness

By Jessica Ross



As another Valentine's Day approaches, the spirit of love transcends traditional celebrations, finding its way into the hearts of those making a difference in communities across the nation. Amidst the dinners and exchanging of gifts, there exists a profound opportunity to make this day even more special — by extending a helping hand to those in need.  This year, consider adding an extra layer of meaning to the holiday by supporting these incredible charities!


The Valentine Project: Crafting Compassion for Children in Need


"The Valentine Project" is a charity dedicated to supporting children from birth to 21 years whose lives are affected by cancer or chronic illness. This volunteer-driven organization, founded by siblings Gregory and Michaela Margida, embarks on a mission to cultivate compassion for these children.





The realization that dealing with such diagnoses can be profoundly lonely for patients and their siblings prompted the inception of The Valentine Project. Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love, often magnifies this sense of isolation. To counteract this, the organization sends one-of-a-kind Valentines filled with love, hope, and joy across the miles to children in California, Kentucky, and Ohio.





In 2024, The Valentine Project aspires to make Valentine’s Day magical for over 600 children and their families, surpassing the previous year's efforts. Individuals can actively participate by sponsoring a child, contributing to the creation of moments that resonate far beyond the holiday.





Discover more about sponsoring a child at https://thevalentineproject.org/ 



St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: Messages of Hope


Every Valentine’s Day,  St. Jude Children's Research Hospital invites individuals to send free online cards to patients battling the toughest illnesses. With pre-written messages available, or the option to craft a personalized note, this initiative seeks to bring support and encouragement to children facing significant health challenges.





The card designs themselves draw inspiration from artwork created by St. Jude patients, adding a personal and meaningful touch to the messages sent. By visiting their website, anyone can easily participate in this act of kindness, sending virtual cards to brighten the days of young patients.




The Red Cross: Protecting Lives & Making a Fashion Statement





Shifting the focus to safety, the American Red Cross, in collaboration with the Oxnard Fire Department and community partners, aims to install 3,000 free smoke alarms in Oxnard, California. Part of a nationwide initiative, known as "Sound the Alarm," which recognizes the critical role of working smoke alarms in reducing the risk of death from home fires.




Beyond the installation events, this Valentine’s Day marks another year of collaboration with Pura Vida on a charity collection. Pieces like the "Blood Saves Lives Braided Bracelet" and the "I Heart Malibu Charity Bracelet" not only add a stylish touch but also directly support the Red Cross's vital work.





Explore volunteer opportunities and learn more about the Red Cross at 



Wish of a Lifetime from AARP: Connecting Generations with Cupid Crew


Acknowledging the isolation that nearly one in four adults aged 65 and older experience, the organization embarks on the 11th annual Cupid Crew initiative.





Teaming up with schools and volunteers of all ages, Wish of a Lifetime invites individuals to create heartfelt cards or volunteer to deliver roses. These acts of kindness aim to combat the loneliness that 50 million Americans might face on Valentine’s Day. Individuals can sign up to download printable Valentine’s Day-themed cards, personalize them, and mail them to older adults they know.





Get involved and download your Cupid Crew Valentine’s Day card at https://wishofalifetime.org/events/cupid/ 



As we celebrate Valentine's Day, these nonprofits showcase that the true spirit of the season lies in giving back and spreading joy to those who need it most. There really is a profound impact that even the smallest acts of kindness can have on the lives of others. Whether it's crafting heartfelt cards, supporting medical research, or ensuring the safety of homes, each initiative brings a unique touch of love to communities across the nation.


Heart Of Hollywood Magazine Contributor Jessica Ross


Since August 2022, Jessica Ross has been a contributor at Heart of Hollywood Magazine.


Center Stage, Vegas Unlimited, Indie Activity, Action Magazine, Voyage LA, Cinderella of New York, Juwai, Bizbooast, Heart of Hollywood, JAMO Magazine, Entertainment Network Live, It Can By You, Livein Style Magazine, BuzzFeed and CBS are just a few of the media outlets she has been featured on.




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