A little kindness recently found its way to Wharton, Texas—delivered by mail, sealed with gratitude, and folded into a perfect paper heart.

The Plaza Theatre was honored to receive a handwritten thank-you note from Ellen Webster, the New Jersey woman who has become known nationwide for her extraordinary goal of writing and mailing over 10,000 thank-you notes to people and organizations across the United States.

For more than a decade, Ellen Webster has made it her personal mission to celebrate kindness, creativity, and community through handwritten notes. Her inspiring project has been featured by major media outlets including NBC’s Today Show, Good Morning America, the United States Postal Service, and The Hoboken Girl. Each note she sends carries her signature warmth and a message that has touched hearts nationwide:

“I see you. You matter. Thank you.”

When The Plaza Theatre opened Ellen’s envelope, staff and volunteers found not only her kind words but also one of her signature heart-shaped origami pieces, carefully folded by hand. The gesture beautifully reflected what The Plaza stands for—art, creativity, and connection.

“It’s not often that a handwritten note stops you in your tracks,” said Henri-Ann Nortman, Plaza Board President. “Ellen’s letter reminded us that what we do here in Wharton reaches hearts far beyond our county line. We were absolutely thrilled—and deeply touched—to know that our little theatre had made it onto her list.”

Webster has sent notes to recipients in all 50 states, including libraries, small businesses, and community theatres that foster the arts and imagination. Her thoughtful letter to The Plaza Theatre now holds a special place in the organization’s story—and will soon hold a special place on the wall, too. The theatre plans to frame and display Ellen’s note and origami heart in the administration office, where it will serve as a daily reminder of how far a simple act of gratitude can go.

At The Plaza Theatre, we believe that the arts bring people together, inspire empathy, and make our community stronger. Receiving this note from Ellen Webster is a wonderful reminder that what happens on our stage—and behind the scenes—matters to people everywhere.

So whether you’re attending a show, volunteering, or simply spreading kindness, know that your impact reaches far beyond Wharton.

Learn More

Visit www.ellenwebster.com to explore Ellen’s incredible thank-you note project. Explore upcoming shows and events at www.whartonplazatheatre.org.