US Air Force Captain Kyle Partin (right) and Captain Jill Partin (as well as retired Sergeant Ezra Maes) were recipients of  A Million Thanks and Vets with Pets projects. Collections take place year round and those with active duty members that would like to send care packages of mail can register by contacting cya.org@att.net. Courtesy photo

Retired Sergeant Ezra Maes. Courtesy photo

C’YA News:

As the community celebrates Volunteer Appreciation month, Champions of Youth Ambitions (C’YA) would like to thank all of those that have helped our recent Valentines for Veterans and A Million thanks program.

A Million thanks allow us to send cards, letters drawing and colorings by children and adults to our currently serving military personnel.

The Valentines event found participation of Aspen, Chamisa, Barranca & Pinon Elementary Schools, our local home school community, K-kids, Builder’s Club, Los Alamos Middle School and more worked hard to honor many.

“We have received thanks from local veterans, plus several in Santa Fe, the New Mexico Veterans Hospital,” said Bernadette Lauritzen C’YA Executibe Director.” Plus we included former Chamisa Cheetah and Pinon Panther, Ezra Maes. Captain Kyle Partin (Chamisa Cheetah) and his wife Captain Jill Partin are current members of the US Air Force and received a care package of letters too.”

May 3, C’YA will host a Health, Wellness and Resource Fair at the United Church of Los Alamos. There will be a booth for residents to create cards and letters or can drop them off. The event is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or you can contact C’YA for a pick-up of larger donations of greetings.