The Teacher Who Wrote 10,000 Thank-You Notes: A Decade of Gratitude That’s Changing Lives

Elllen Wesbter and her 10000 Thank You Notes Project

Let me share a heartfelt story about Ellen Webster from Hoboken, New Jersey—a schoolteacher who has spent the past 11 years writing thank-you notes to people who’ve touched her life.

✉️ Who is Ellen Webster?

Ellen Webster, a schoolteacher from Hoboken, New Jersey, began writing thank-you notes in 2014. It started small—a note for a friend, a kind barista, a helpful coworker. But as her appreciation grew, so did her letters. Over 11 years, she’s written more than 10,000 personal, handwritten notes to people who impacted her life in ways big and small.

sources: ABC News

🌟 Why it’s meaningful

Ellen doesn’t send quick texts or pre-written cards. Each note is handwritten, personal, and intentional—an act of kindness and connection in its purest form. In an age of speed and digital detachment, her slow, sincere gesture reminds us of the power of gratitude.

📺 ABC News Spotlight

• ABC News featured Ellen's story on June 18, 2025, under “Good News.”

• The coverage emphasized how her methodical dedication turned a simple idea into a long-term practice—and a powerful example of kindness .

🎓 The Teacher's Legacy

Students, friends, community members—even strangers—have received Ellen’s letters. Many say they were moved to tears. Her story has now been featured by ABC News and local outlets, showing how one small act repeated over time can change lives and inspire a movement.

🕊️ The Gratitude Ripple

What Ellen teaches us isn’t just curriculum—it’s human connection. And the best part? Anyone can start. A thank-you note takes only a few minutes to write but can echo in someone’s heart for years.

🙋‍♀️ Want to start your own gratitude project?

1. Pick a cadence—daily, weekly, monthly.

2. Write by hand—makes it more personal.

3. Reflect on the impact—share how someone helped you and why you appreciate them.

4. Expand your list—include family, friends, mentors, even strangers who brightened your day.

🚀 Your next step

Would you like help drafting your first thank-you note? Or maybe you’re curious about similar uplifting stories—like students thanking teachers, acts of kindness in classrooms, and more modern gratitude movements? If your answer is yes, you may wish to grab the template below for a sample thank-you note you can use to start your own gratitude journey—whether you're writing to a teacher, a co-worker, a barista, a friend, or someone who made your day a little brighter.

✉️ Sample Handwritten Thank-You Note:

Dear [Name],

I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you. In a world that often rushes by too quickly, your [kindness/help/support/smile/etc.] made a real difference in my day.

Whether you knew it or not, your [specific act or gesture] reminded me that simple, thoughtful actions matter more than we think.

I’m truly grateful, and I hope you know your efforts don’t go unnoticed. Thank you for being someone who brings light to the world.

Warmly,

[Your Name]