A Little Creativity. A Lot of Heart.

An origami butterfly. A crocheted teddy bear. A handmade bracelet. Sometimes, the smallest gestures can make a big difference.

That's the idea behind Creative heARTS, a White Plains Hospital volunteer initiative that collects handmade crafts and distributes them to patients and healthcare workers, offering a little comfort, connection, and kindness during what can be stressful moments.

Since launching in 2022, the program has received more than 28,000 handmade items from students, community groups, and individual volunteers. But as demand continues to grow, so does the need for donations.

That's where Pace University student Michael Savchuk comes in.

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A senior studying health science on the pre-nursing track in the College of Health Professions, Savchuk volunteers at White Plains Hospital, gaining firsthand experience in healthcare while preparing for a future in nursing. He's also a newly minted Marine, having recently completed Officer Candidates School.

Now, he's putting his commitment to service into action by bringing Creative heARTS to the Pace Community.

Savchuk is working to make participation easy for students, faculty, and staff by organizing campus donation drop boxes and exploring opportunities for hands-on crafting activities.

And you don't need to be an artist to help.

Here's How You Can Get Involved

The Creative heARTS program welcomes small, handmade creations, including origami, crocheted items, jewelry, paper crafts, miniature paintings, and other thoughtful keepsakes appropriate for hospital patients of all ages.

Drop-off locations on the Pleasantville Campus:

• Kessel Student Center, Alumni Quad Entrance
• Mortola Library, Vestibule

Additionally, volunteers who document the time spent creating their donations may also request an acknowledgment letter from White Plains Hospital, which can be used toward eligible community service requirements.

Whether you make one origami butterfly or a dozen crocheted creations, your contribution could make someone's hospital stay a little brighter. A little creativity goes a long way. Let's show White Plains Hospital what the Pace Community can do.