MANA House Enjoys ‘Hearts and Heroes’ Event With Help From Phillips Law Group

On Valentine’s Day this year, Phillips Law Group planned to put on a fun, interactive, themed event for MANA House, an organization that provides transitional housing and “is a peer-run organization of homeless and formerly homeless veterans offering personal, individualized basic resources, community, and advocacy for all veterans.” Unfortunately, the MANA House “Hearts and Heroes” event was postponed due to COVID, but volunteers were ultimately able to return on February 26 to help with the event after all. 

Valentine’s Day Fun at MANA House

The idea behind the MANA House “Hearts and Heroes” event was to come together to honor and celebrate the veterans while also enjoying fun games and snacks related to Valentine’s Day. 

“We wanted to show a little love to our local heroes that served our country,” said Sharon Mews, an Office Support Assistant and member of the Marketing and Community Outreach teams for the firm. 

A few of the activities at the event included bingo, cookie decorating, and the option to enjoy some coloring books for the festive occasion. The first activity was Valentine’s Day Bingo, which many of the veterans really appreciated. 

Phillips Law Group volunteers gave out eight prize packages for this activity that included a $25 gift card along with merchandise from the firm, all wrapped in Valentine’s Day shrink wrap. Other prizes such as stuffed animals in a clear tote bag were awarded as well. 

Decorating and Dedication at MANA House

Although there was a sugar cookie decorating table at the MANA House “Hearts and Heroes” event – complete with sprinkles, icing, and Valentine’s Day cookie bins –  the residents had no interest in actually decorating the cookies. 

“They just wanted the cookies,” Sharon joked.

Another table was set up with coloring books, markers, and coloring pencils, and although it did not prove popular at the event itself, volunteers left the markers and coloring books at MANA House for people to enjoy later on. 

But the most important aspect of the event was making veterans feel appreciated for Valentine’s Day, and dedicating time to people who once dedicated their time to service. Volunteers brought along Valentine’s Day cards from many Phillips Law Group employees that included envelopes personalized with names of the MANA House residents, along with a puppy-themed valentine and sucker attached to the envelope.  

“They seemed touched by that personalized effort by our teammates who helped write the names and make the cards,” Sharon noted. 

Volunteers ‘Appreciated’ at Community Service Events

Volunteers from Phillips Law Group had the honor of interacting with the veterans at MANA House and hearing their stories, which is always deeply meaningful to those who participate in these community outreach opportunities.  One veteran told his story of sleeping in his car before finding out about MANA House through the veterans hotline, and how the organization gave him a place to stay while he waits for veteran housing.  

“Most of us are only a few checks away from being on the streets,” the individual wisely shared. 

“Everyone at the event remained so appreciative of our efforts,” Sharon later commented. 

With many more opportunities in the future to volunteer with MANA House and other organizations we partner with, if you’d like to get involved, please contact us to get in touch with our community outreach department to learn more about where you can lend a helping hand.

“We hope to continue to build a relationship with these wonderful residents,” Sharon said.