On Wednesday, Nov. 20, students were creating and decorating holiday cards to send to service members stationed overseas and at military bases in the U.S., including Texas.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the TCU community visited the card-making station at the library. Students illustrated the cards with messages of gratitude, shared holiday greetings or decorations conveying care and support for the recipients. 

“I’ve been listening to this radio station for years, and I absolutely love this philanthropy—it’s been incredibly successful, gathering 500 cards last year,” Shelia Dean, TCU’s library’s marketing manager, said.

10,000 for the Troops

10,000 for the Troops was created to bring a touch of home to military service members. It aims to support those separated from family and friends, especially during the holiday season, which can be challenging.

The cards serve as a heartfelt reminder to service members that their dedication and sacrifices are deeply recognized. In doing so, they show appreciation and convey gratitude from those who value their service.

“This Christmas, my brother will be on deployment, far from home and without contact with family or friends in the States,” Matthew Beyrooty, a TCU MBA Candidate, said. “I’ve seen firsthand how much small gestures mean to him and his fellow service members. Even a simple card can make a challenging holiday feel less lonely for those serving far from home. It reminds them they are in the hearts and minds of people who care deeply about them.

This gives the TCU community a chance to support a larger effort to uplift the spirits of troops worldwide. It’s an opportunity to show appreciation and bring comfort to those serving far from home.

“It’s such a meaningful cause—no fancy cards needed! It’s so simple to bring a smile to a service member’s face, especially when they can’t be home for the holidays,” Diana Boerner, the TCU business librarian, said.