As the chill of November settles over campus, SUNY Old Westbury students will warm hearts by transforming gratitude into action through a colorful, creative act of kindness that will bring the Panther community together. The initiative invites students to make handmade Thanksgiving cards that will be delivered to patients in local hospitals and nursing homes.

Cards for a Cause will take place on Monday, November 24, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Commuter Lounge,. The initiative, hosted by the Office of Student Engagement and Leadership Development, invites students to make handmade Thanksgiving cards that will be delivered to patients in local hospitals and nursing homes. It is designed to bring the campus community together while spreading warmth to those who need it most.

The goal is to remind people who might feel isolated during the holidays that they are seen, valued, and cared for. All materials—paper, markers, stickers, and envelopes—will be provided, making it easy for anyone to join in, no matter their artistic ability.

“CSA wanted to organize Cards for a Cause as a way to bring our campus community together through small but meaningful acts of kindness,” said Verina Anis, one of the event’s organizers.

Anis said the event helps remind students that even simple gestures can make a lasting impact.

“We wanted to create an opportunity for students to pause, reflect, and give back by writing words of encouragement, appreciation, or hope,” Anis said. “It’s super easy to join. We’ll have everything set up, so you can come make a few cards, hang out, and go whenever you need to.”

Beyond its creative element, Cards for a Cause serves a deeper purpose. With finals approaching and academic stress rising, the event encourages students to slow down and focus on gratitude—something that research shows can reduce anxiety and boost emotional well-being.

A 2023 study from the University of California at Berkeley found that simple acts of kindness and creative expression both help combat burnout, especially in college students. Researchers found that when students performed more kind and helpful acts—such as sharing notes, holding doors, or offering encouragement—they reported higher levels of happiness, resilience, and optimism, along with lower feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

“When students come to Cards for a Cause, they can expect a fun and uplifting experience,” Anis said. “There will be music, supplies, and plenty of space to get creative while writing thoughtful cards for people in need of a smile. It’s also a chance to meet new people, take a break from classes, and do something kind that makes an impact beyond campus.”

After the event, the team will collect, sort, and deliver the cards through hospital volunteer departments to ensure they reach patients who could use a morale boost.

“Something as simple as a handwritten card can mean the world to someone,” Anis said. “It shows that a stranger took the time to think of them and send a kind message. That genuine care can really lift people’s spirits, especially during rough times.”

Events like Cards for a Cause highlight SUNY Old Westbury’s ongoing commitment to civic engagement and compassion.

“We’d love for Cards for a Cause to become a tradition on campus,” Anis said. ““Hopefully this is just the start of something that keeps growing year after year.”

Cards for a Cause Thanksgiving card decorating for local hospital patients. Mon., Nov. 20 at 1:30 p.m., Commuter Lounge, Campus Center Atrium at SUNY Old Westbury. Free admission.