TRIO students share kindness through cards and cookies

Student members of Troy’s Student Support Services (TRIO) came together to make cards for the nursing home for Valentine’s Day last Wednesday.  

With the intention to spread kindness, the event provided craft supplies for cards and cookies for those decorating them.  

“The goal of this event is to get other people to come out, network with each other and have a good time,” said TRIO Ambassador Trey Brown, a sophomore physical education major from Eufaula, Alabama. “In nursing homes, some people don’t get to see their families often, so the cards and words of encouragement we’re giving them can mean a lot on its own. 

Caroline Marshall photo

Students make a variety of cards and cookies for people in the nursing home for the holiday.

There were a variety of different colors and tools to use to create cards and cookies. 

TRIO offers several student support services that benefit members through academic advising, leadership development and workshops on how to find success while in college.

The only qualifications to join TRIO are to be a first-generation college student, Pell Grant eligible or have a documented disability.  

Students must only meet one of the requirements to be eligible to join.  

“It’s an awesome program, and I know personally I wouldn’t have had the opportunity on my own to do all these things,” said Alyssa Williams, a senior rehabilitation and disability studies from Mobile, Alabama. “It’s helped me learn how to be around people, create new relationships and learn about what other people have gone through.  

“We all come from different backgrounds, and being able to come together here is really awesome.”  

Members reflected on how TRIO has benefited them in their college journey and given them a sense of fulfillment while participating in events.  

“I started coming to TRIO events in September, and it has been really fun getting to know new people,” said Diana Matchett, a nursing major from Madison, Florida. “It’s helped me feel more prepared to continue college, and I really love everyone in TRIO.  

“They’ve been really kind and inviting. I think this event is really amazing to share kindness and to let people know that they are loved. TRIO is all about reaching new people.”  

To stay up to date for TRIO events, follow its Instagram page @TroyMain_SSS. Events are posted weeks in advance for ample time to prepare to come to an event.