Special to the Reporter

In a heartwarming act of kindness, Mercer Island High School students joined AARP’s Wish of a Lifetime “Cupid Crew” and Coordinating Council for Refugees (CCFR) to spread joy and love this Valentine’s season.

As part of the nationwide initiative, students delivered more than 150 roses and Valentine’s cards to residents at Island House Assisted Living and Aljoya Mercer Island on Feb. 14, reminding seniors that they are cared for and appreciated.

The Wish of a Lifetime “Cupid Crew,” a project sponsored by AARP, has been bringing Valentine’s Day cheer to older adults across the country for several years. This year, Mercer Island students Denis Batalov, Damon Liu, Dylan Gradek, Gavi Odievich, Oliver Lee, Leo Saloranta and Sabrina Ennanova have stepped up to participate, making meaningful connections with seniors in their community while bringing smiles and warm wishes. This is the first year Mercer Island students joined the AARP initiative.

“Small acts of kindness like this can have a profound impact on the lives of older adults,” said Batalov, high school junior. “We’re thrilled that we can take part in such an inspiring project and share a little love with our local seniors.”

Batalov coordinated the deliveries with Island House and Aljoya Mercer island.

For Ennanova, a high school freshman, participating in this event holds personal significance.

“On this special day, I want to share sparks of joy and love. These roses will be a symbol of that heartfelt wish, bringing happy smiles for seniors for days to come,” said Ennanova, who joined her mom Zarema Kharachik in organizing and sorting out all the roses received from AARP.

Lee, who led volunteers during the deliveries, described his experience during the day.

“I was surprised at just how positive of a reaction we got from the seniors. I know that many of them don’t get very many visitors, so watching the their faces light up when they received the flowers was a priceless experience for me,” said Lee, a high school junior.

The students fostered intergenerational connections at both senior living communities. Many of the older adults involved have limited opportunities for social interaction, and simple gestures like receiving a rose or a thoughtful note can brighten their day in unforgettable ways.

Volunteers Oliver Lee and Leo Saloranta deliver flowers to Island House. Courtesy photo

Seniors enjoy receiving their flowers. Courtesy photos