Making a Card, Making a Difference

By Christine Hall

From early morning to early afternoon, anyone who passes by the front desk of the Lillian Pratt building can’t help but notice Linda Tonjann, Receptionist Supervisor and “Director of First Impressions” who has been at the center of activity for thirty-five years answering phones, helping residents, greeting families, and distributing mail.  In addition to her enviable multitasking and organizational skills, Linda is renowned for her decorative arts and handicrafts.  Recently she had multiple requests from residents for greeting cards at the front desk; that it would be so much more convenient for them instead of having to make an additional shopping trip off campus. FTJ team members agreed. We all need cards when we least expect it. That is when Linda decided to combine her passion for arts and crafts and her desire to help FTJ residents and staff.  As she began designing her cards, she realized she wanted to also do something for the greater good and raise money for the annual fund, Where Need Is Greatest.

What started as a thoughtful gesture has yielded big results!  In her first month of multiple sales, Linda raised $200 for Where Need Is Greatest, and her goal is to continue to make a monthly contribution through the proceeds of her creations. When asked why she took on this project Linda said, “I am doing this because I recognized a great need.  I felt it was something I could do and feel good about – and to know I was making a difference.”

If you stop by the Lillian Pratt front desk anytime, you will find a variety of beautiful cards ranging from Happy Birthday, Get Well, Sympathy, and various holiday selections.  “I did have St. Patrick’s Day,” commented Linda, “but a very nice gentleman made a donation and purchased them all!.”  These custom, well-made cards come with envelopes but do not come with prices ~ a donation of $3 or more per card is recommended and appreciated, but not mandatory.  All card contributions offset supplies and benefit Franke Tobey Jones ~ quite a nice collaboration for all of us!