Student Support Services (TRIO) students got together Dec. 1 to create 44 Christmas cards for area nursing home residents.

Student Katie Gilbertson was kind enough to deliver the cards to Golden Living in La Crescent, where she works. Here is her account of sharing the cards: When I arrived to the unit everyone was just finishing up lunch. As I passed around cards to everyone by name, their eyes lit up with joy. They responded with “that’s really for me?” and “this is absolutely wonderful.” There is a man there who has very progressed Alzheimer's and often doesn't respond to people. The moment I pulled out a Christmas card for him, his entire demeanor changed. He was a completely different man. He said “A Christmas card for me?!” in exclamation. He responded with many thank yous and when I left the building 35 minutes later, he was still examining his newest piece of mail. The staff was also very appreciative as I handed them a few extra cards that we had made.

Participating were Alexis Bird, Justice Carson, Danielle Ducklow, Bailey Fagerland, Abby Giese, Katie Gilbertson, Katlyn Grondin, Dana Haines, Mariah Haines, Lauren Lammers, and Courtney Moskal, who gave their time and talents to spread some Christmas joy.