RICHMOND, Va. -- Joseph Ferry may not know the cure for COVID-19, but what he’s holding is a prescription for happiness.
“It feels really good. The project was going well. And it is getting the attention it needs and deserves,” said Joseph.
The Boy Scout from Troop 442 is using the quarantine to mobilize smiles one piece of paper at a time.
“I think these cards are a great way of giving them hope. People care about them and want them to be happy,” said Joseph.
The 17-year-old is the founder of RVA Cards That Care. Each message is distributed to senior citizens isolated from loved ones.
“This is the biggest thing I’ve ever done that affects people in such a great way,” said Joseph. “I think it’s hard for people in nursing homes because they’re scared, they may get coronavirus.”
The junior at Collegiate started collecting cards and letters last month as part of his Eagle Project. So far, hundreds have been written by friends, family, and strangers alike.
“It takes five to 10 minutes and you can help someone’s life in five to 10 minutes,” said Joseph. “We’re bettering the lives of so many people who have received the cards and so many more people who are going to receive the cards in the future.”
Scout Master Tom Hayes said Joseph’s mission is mushrooming.
“They could always use that bit of love. They could always use that bit of kindness,” said Tom. “We’re all out here. We’re talking about them. We’re trying to love them from a distance. And this is a great way to do that.”
The card campaign is so successful, the Boy Scout doesn’t intend to abandon it once the pandemic passes.
Joseph Ferry, learning the lasting power of a few simple words. Long after the ink dries.
“It really important that people are given encouragement and hope that it gets better,” he added.
If you would like to help Joseph in his campaign, click here.
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