Social Media Campaign Nets 163 Cards for MOW Client
June 16, 2014
GREER, SC – The powerful reach of Social Media was evident Thursday, June 12, when Greer Community Ministries’ staff members delivered 163 cards to Helen Burrell of Greer on her 100th birthday.
A Meals on Wheels client, Burrell mentioned her 100th birthday to one of the Meals on Wheels (MOW) volunteer drivers the previous week. She said that all she wanted for her birthday was 100 birthday cards. She commented that she had outlived most of her friends and that she did not expect to have her wish granted.
The driver relayed the message to Wendy Campbell, MOW coordinator, and she asked that Burrell’s wish be made known through Facebook and Twitter. The campaign begin on Friday, June 6, and by Wednesday of the next week, GCM had 163 cards from community and social media friends for Burrell’s birthday celebration. Cards were received from as far away as California and Illinois.
“Once again, we see the impact of the Meals on Wheels program,” said Cindy Simpler, executive director. “From the driver to GCM, from GCM to the community, from the community to Helen – – we work to take care of each other. We are so thankful to have volunteers who are committed to helping beyond simply delivering a meal and to be part of caring and responsive community. Together we provide for neighbors in need. Social media provides the vehicle for instant communication, enabling quick and effective response. And this isn’t Star Wars; it’s just Greer. But the force – – the volunteer force – – is with us!”
Bi-Lo at Collins Corner donated flowers and a birthday balloon to be delivered along with the meal and the cards to Burrell on her birthday.
Burrell said that she was blessed to have made it to 100 years and she was looking forward to greeting friends and family during a drop-in party to honor her later that day.
Burrell is one of 319 MOW clients currently being served Monday through Friday by Greer Community Ministries. For more information on programs provided by GCM, visit gcminc.org.
