About Us
What is Notes of Good Cheer?
Notes of Good Cheer is an initiative started in May of 2020 by two sisters who have a passion for supporting and caring for the seniors in their community, especially during this time of physical distancing. We started by writing and sending encouraging digital notes to a few local care homes, and after hearing about how they were having a positive impact, we would now love to give others the opportunity to get involved as well! If you are looking for a way to make a positive impact in the lives of local seniors, you've come to the right place! Show that you care by writing them a note -- simply send it to us (either through the forum below or through our email (notesofgoodcheer@gmail.com), and we'll take care of the rest. We truly appreciate and thank you for taking the time to brighten a senior's day!
Our Vision
Our goal with this initiative is to provide a way for us all to support, encourage, and stay connected with local seniors by bringing some good cheer while maintaining the necessary physical distancing measures. We saw a need in our community, and this is our response.
Where/How Are the Notes Sent?
We work in partnership with various nursing/retirement facilities throughout Ontario, Canada. We assemble the notes that we write/receive into an easily-printable digital document which is sent bi-weekly to these facilities. The notes are then printed off and dispersed to residents or read in groups at the discretion of each facility.
This is a one-way note exchange, which means that volunteers will not receive a note in return. We believe that there is something special and particularly gratifying about giving without expecting anything in return.
As well, this takes pressure off of both the seniors and their care providers. Sometimes we do get a reply though, either from a resident, care provider, or coordinator of the facility. Any replies or updates will be posted (with permission) to our social media.
If you know of a place that would benefit from receiving these notes, let us know by sending us an email at notesofgoodcheer@gmail.com or connect with us on social media.
Note Guidelines
#1. Be kind and positive. Keep the note encouraging; a good rule of thumb is to write something that you would enjoy reading.
#2. Write inclusively. Your note may be read in a group of many seniors, so please make sure that your note will resonate with a wide audience.
#3. Feel free to be creative! (If you have a photo/image you would like to include with your note, email it to us at notesofgoodcheer@gmail.com.)
#4. You can send us as many notes as you'd like! There is no limit to the amount of notes you can send in. We send the notes to care homes bi-weekly, so we are always accepting submissions!
Note Ideas
Include a poem, image, drawing, etc.
If you are artistically inclined, include some of your work! You can email your note along with any attachments to notesofgoodcheer@gmail.com, and we will take care of the rest.
Tell a story
Giving the reader a glimpse into your life with a brief story can be a great personal touch.
Write words of encouragement
Writing words of encouragement can have a significant positive impact on the reader's confidence and self-esteem. During these unprecedented times, providing hope is one of the most important things we can do.
Include fun facts / jokes
Who doesn't enjoy a good fact or joke? Brighten someone's day by adding some fun and humour into your note. (Please also ensure that whatever you choose is appropriate for everyone.)
Ask a question
While this is a one-way note exchange and you will not receive a personal note in return, asking a thought-provoking question (e.g. do you enjoy listening to music?/what are your favourite songs?) allows readers to think and reflect on their own life and memories. (We will be posting any general replies on our social media!)