At the start of COVID-19, many of us found ourselves adjusting to a new way of living, including surviving lockdowns. Through this chaotic and uncertain time, many of us found more time at home or new ways to channel our stress. A few have even discovered that beautiful things can still be created, even in difficult times. A few instances include parents taking a moment to slow down and enjoy their children while still maintaining work demands. Others have found the time to resume old hobbies or learn a new skill. We’ve heard firsthand of these peaceful moments found among the chaos of unexpected lockdowns and pandemic living. By Sarah Hughes, Regional Vice President East Division
In darker moments, our Open Arms guests are facing incredible challenges to the mind, body and spirit. Despite having moments filled with fear and uncertainty, our Open Arms guests often share how much peace and comfort they find in their network of support, including their Open Arms home. Everything done for Open Arms is focused on the goal to create a network of support that shines peace and love into the darkest moments. It was during the darkness of COVID-19 that one MAA associate was able to reconnect with a treasured memory and create moments that mattered for herself and Open Arms. Melanie Jacks, Director of People Analytics, found herself needing to focus on a hobby during lockdown. She came across a once-a-month crotchet kit.
Melanie Jacks
While starting one of the kits, her memory of her grandmother crocheting came flooding back to her. Melanie recalled all of the blankets, stuffed animals and hats her grandmother made and realized that her grandmother’s love was surrounding her when she needed it most.
Melanie’s once-a-month kits created similar stuffed animals to those her grandmother had made for her so many years before. She took that memory and decided to pay it forward through Open Arms by setting up a booth at a festival where she sold $200 worth of her creations. Melanie’s hobby not only reconnected her with her grandmother, but allowed her to raise money for Open Arms. These funds will help create moments of peace and love that will surround someone else in their time of need. Together we create moments that matter. Thank you, Melanie, for sharing your story and reminding us that even little things, like a crocheted stuffed animal, can create powerful memories and acts of kindness and make all the difference for an Open Arms guest and their loved ones.
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