Our Story of Love & Support

See how The Valentine Project is changing lives by delivering love to children and families in need.

Cultivating Compassion, Spreading Love and Joy

The Story Behind The Valentine Project

Every great mission begins with a simple yet profound act of kindness. The Valentine Project's story is no different, rooted in the compassion of two teen siblings, Michaela and Gregory Margida. Fifteen years ago, while volunteering, Michaela and Gregory were struck by the hardship and isolation faced by children undergoing treatments for pediatric cancer and chronic illnesses. Deeply moved, they envisioned a way to bring joy and hope to these brave kids and their siblings—a Valentine's Day filled with love, care, and a sense of belonging.

In its first year, The Valentine Project delivered 88 Personalized Packages of Love to children across Ohio. These weren’t just any packages—they were carefully curated shoe boxes, brimming with treats, homemade gifts, and heartfelt notes, all meant to deliver smiles and hope. Confidentially shared names were quickly claimed by volunteers, and soon The Valentine House became a hub of love, transforming a simple idea into a powerful tradition.

What started as a local effort has grown into a nationwide nonprofit, touching the lives of over 1,000 children annually. Today, The Valentine Project extends beyond Valentine’s Day, with the Kindness Card Program spreading joy throughout the year.

Michaela and Gregory's passion for helping others has only deepened with time. Gregory, now an attorney with the Metropolitan Public Defender in Portland, Oregon, and Michaela, a Research and Improvement Specialist focused on sustainable global food innovation, continue to hold The Valentine Project close to their hearts.

They invite you to join this growing "family" of supporters, sponsors, and donors. Together, we can make the world a kinder place—one package, one card, and one child at a time. Michaela and Gregory can’t wait to welcome you to The Valentine Project Family, where every act of love leaves a lasting impact.

Let’s spread love, hope, and joy—because every child deserves to feel special.

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Who We Serve

The Valentine Project serves families facing life-altering diagnoses. We know cancer and chronic illnesses are complex and impact the entire family. This is why we uniquely include siblings.

Spreading Joy Across the Miles

The Valentine Project began with a mission to spread love, hope, and joy to children and families affected by pediatric cancer and chronic illness. Founded by two siblings who understood the unique challenges these families face, the project has grown into a nationwide initiative providing Personalized Packages of Love and Kindness Cards to children from all walks of life. Each gesture serves as a reminder that even in the toughest times, there is a community that cares.

Meet the Board

JUDITH HILINSKI
❤️ Board Chair
ANDREA MARGIDA
❤️ President & CEO
MARCY A. VENARGE
❤️ Secretary
DEB MURRAY
❤️ Board Member
MARY MONASTRA
❤️ Board Member
SARA TAGGART
❤️ Board Member
BREANNA MULLINGS
❤️ Marketing Specialist
BRAD DERTEEN
❤️ CTO/Board Member

Testimonials

Bhavika

Thank you for your beautiful message and for the kindness that The Valentine Project continues to share with our family. We have many long days at the hospital and very hard days in general. It’s not just about the gifts or the cards—it’s the feeling of being thought of and cared for that means so much to all of us. We feel less alone knowing there are people rooting for us and cheering us on. Thank you again for all that you do.