Origami Cranes Gifted to Seniors

Students from our Chicago Chapter visited seniors and residents at Complete Care Margate Park nursing home, bringing with them more than 200 origami cranes that they folded to share as gifts.

The project was inspired by the traditional Japanese symbolism of the paper crane—a representation of health, longevity, peace, and hope. For seniors, especially those navigating health challenges, this symbolism can offer a meaningful sense of comfort.

In addition to delivering the pre-made cranes, the students spent time teaching residents of the nursing home how to fold their own cranes and shared the stories and significance behind paper cranes.

For one student, this project was particularly meaningful. He grew up learning origami from his Japanese mother and was especially excited to share a piece of his heritage with the elderly at Complete Care Margate Park.

It is in these small, heartfelt moments that connections are forged, generations come together, and cultures are beautifully intertwined.