People across the country are ordering holiday cards, printing holiday cards and mailing holiday cards. Cards to friends, cards to colleagues, cards to far-flung family members. So many cards, in fact, that they can feel like a chore rather than an inspiring part of the season. What about including someone special who you may not know on that list this year? There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to extend a word of thanks to someone who has honorably served our country.
In this series of posts, we’ll be sharing new ideas to celebrate the holidays with help from some of our closest partners. First up is an easy way to support the troops, veterans and their families. All that’s needed is paper, something to write with, and an appreciative heart.
Our own Anne Marie Borrego recently interviewed Les Morris, spokesperson from Simon Property Group:
Anne Marie Borrego:
Thanks, Les. The Red Cross has collected and distributed greeting cards for members of the military, veterans and their families for the last five years through its Holiday Mail for Heroes program. These cards—from individuals across the country—thank these honorable men and women for their commitment and sacrifices. This year, Simon Malls is joining us in the effort. How are you making it fun and easy to get involved?
Les Morris:
There are two ways to get involved. First, we have holiday cards available to sign at the guest services counter in our mall locations. Also, we’ve got a club called the Simon Kidgets Club. Its a program offered to children ages 3-8 and their parents. At this time of the year, there are several different types of family and holiday activities. One of the activities being offered is creating holiday cards for the troops using markers, glue and construction paper. The children love this heart warming activity and it is in support of the American Red Cross’s Holiday Mail for Heroes program.
Anne Marie Borrego:
It’s got to mean so much to our troops and their families when they get those handmade cards. What do people do if they can’t get to the mall for a card-making event?
Les Morris:
You can drop off a card up until Dec 11 at a guest services booth in any Simon Mall.
Anne Marie Borrego:
Great. And I believe that you also have a great gift idea that helps out the Red Cross.
Les Morris:
Simon Property Group is pleased to offer customers the chance to donate to the American Red Cross by purchasing a Simon Amex Candy Cane gift card. $1 of $3 will go to American Red Cross. You can also buy the cards online .
Anne Marie Borrego:
That discount is only being offered to Red Cross supporters on the Red Cross Website and blog, right?
Les Morris:
Absolutely!
Anne Marie Borrego:
That’s excellent. Thanks, Les, for all you do for the Red Cross and for our troops this holiday season.
Red Cross volunteers will be at many of the Simon Malls card-making events. If you see them, say hello, and if you make a card, be sure to share photos of your handiwork on our Facebook wall.