My passion in life is making people feel special and especially kids. Some of those people are kids who think they are no longer kids—college kids. In this age of text messaging, Facebook, and e-mail, it sometimes seems everyone knows everything about everyone. But keeping the lines of communication open with what college kids are really feeling, thinking, and needing is not always easy. How do we let our kids know they are special, special to us and special to God?

I have a niece and nephew who will be going off to college this fall. Helping them (and kids like them) feel special takes just a little extra effort. Gift cards and personal notes are easy to mail. To go a step further, you might pick up two or three US postal priority boxes at the post office. (They are free.) It takes a $4.95 stamp to ship the smallest box. As the USPS says, “Whatever fits, ships”—no matter the weight. 

If you’re at a loss for what to add to a card or put in a box, CTA has some great items you could include. My favorite is the 911 Cell Phone Magnetic Bookmark; it will easily fit inside a card. Or consider the Ticket to Heaven Bookmark or Ticket to Heaven Pendant Set, the Be Blessed Flashlight/screwdriver (for girls) or the Strength for the Journey Multi Tool (for guys).

Food from home almost always gets the attention of college kids! Have church members donate breakfast bars, candy, cookies, and other items. Then stuff boxes with it as a Fall Festival service project. Surprise a college kid with the Pumpkin Slap Bracelet. It’s sure to be a hit!