3 Simple Tips for a Year of Significance

Dear Elf Squad Near and Far,

As we step into a brand-new year, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for each of you who supported the Senior Significance Project from across the country.

Because of your generosity and kindness, we were able to hand wrap and deliver gifts to more than 350 Alzheimer’s patients across South Florida. Every wish list item you purchased, every act of support you gave, and every ounce of love you shared helped create moments of joy, dignity, and connection for people who needed it most.

I am sharing some of our favorite moments from the 2025 project so you can see the joy you helped create. These smiles, hugs, laughter, and dances happened because of you, because you chose love.

This season also marked an exciting year of growth for the project. We continued expanding in Melbourne, Florida under the incredible leadership of our Chief Elf Officer, Jessica Beck. We were also honored to serve a brand-new community in Orlando, Florida thanks to our amazing Chief Elves, Sommer Sherrod and Dr. Sara Kyle. What began as a small family project continues to grow because people like you believe in this mission.

I always love ending a busy year with the Senior Significance Project because it reminds me of what matters most. It grounds me. It reminds me that love is the greatest gift we can give, and that even the smallest acts of kindness can create moments of significance that last far beyond a single day.

As we begin this new year together, here are three simple reminders inspired by this project to help start the year off right:

1. Choose presence over perfection
What mattered most to the seniors was not a perfect gift or the right words, it was simply showing up. This year, give yourself permission to be present. Presence creates connection, and connection is where impact begins.

2. Measure success by the lives you touch
The most meaningful impact cannot always be counted or measured. It is found in moments where someone feels seen, valued, and loved. At the end of each week, ask yourself who you encouraged and who you helped feel significant.

3. Lead with love, it is the gift that always lasts
Even when memories fade, love leaves an imprint. The kindness you give never disappears, it multiplies in ways you may never fully see.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being part of this journey with me and my family. Your love and support mean more than I could ever put into words.

Wishing you a Happy New Year, a year filled with purpose, joy, and a brand new year of significance. May all of your goals this year ring true.

With endless gratitude,
Kelly and the entire Merbler family 💛