By Jeanni Ritchie
When most eleven-year-olds are counting down the days until Christmas morning, Levi Voorhies is already planning how to make sure others feel remembered when the season arrives.
A sixth-grader at Anacoco Elementary School, Levi is the founder of Little Hands, Big Trees—a volunteer-led community project that spreads holiday cheer to elderly residents throughout Vernon Parish and beyond. His mission is simple but powerful: make sure every senior feels seen, loved, and surrounded by the joy of Christmas.
What started as one boy’s idea has quickly grown into a heart-warming movement. Levi collects small artificial trees and decorations, then—with help from family and volunteers—personally delivers and decorates each one in the homes of elderly neighbors who might otherwise spend the holidays alone or without decorations. Every tree includes a handwritten tag that reads, “Merry Christmas & God bless you.”
After the season ends, the trees are picked up, cleaned, and stored so they can be reused to bless more seniors in years to come—a gesture that reflects both sustainability and steady compassion.
Levi says his inspiration comes from his love of Christmas and his desire to help those who might feel forgotten. “I just wanted them to have something happy to look at,” he shared, “and to know somebody cares.”
Between school, sports, 4-H, and STEM Club, Levi somehow finds time to lead the project with remarkable maturity. He’s even inspired classmates and church members to join in, proving that kindness knows no age limit.
This year, deliveries and decorating will take place December 1 – 15 across Vernon Parish and nearby communities. A family member or contact person must be present when volunteers deliver and decorate each tree—a thoughtful touch to ensure safety and comfort.
Those who wish to help can donate gently used artificial trees, shatterproof ornaments, ribbons, bows, or tree skirts—or contribute funds for supplies.
Little Hands, Big Trees reminds us that one small act of kindness can grow taller than any pine. And sometimes, the biggest hearts really do come in the smallest packages.
To volunteer or donate, call or text 318-880-7396. Know someone who needs a tree in Vernon Parish? Email littlehandsbigtrees@
Jeanni Ritchie is a contributing journalist from Central Louisiana. She can be reached at jeanniritchie54@gmail.com.
