Monarch will again bring smiles to some faces in the local area this Valentine's Day with its annual Project Cupid fundraiser.

With less than one month until the annual Valentine's Day observance held on Feb. 14, area businesses, organizations and individuals are already placing their orders for a unique gift that also benefits a local worthy nonprofit organization.

Monarch's 18th annual Project Cupid fundraiser is a seasonal tradition that provides people supported by the nonprofit organization with an opportunity to perform a meaningful service to the community while assisting in an initiative that raises funds and supports Monarch's programs and services.

Monarch teams, made up of people supported and staff, gather to create Valentine gift packages for lucky recipients throughout Craven, Hoke, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Richmond and Stanly counties.

The Project Cupid gift includes a stuffed bear, heart-shaped Mylar balloon, a mug filled with assorted candy and a customizable gift card that allows the giver to share a message.

Each Project Cupid gift is only $14 - and includes free delivery in the above specified counties.

Monarch's Chief Development Officer Blake Martin is especially pleased that so many benefit from this project.

"The best part about Project Cupid is that it is such a feel good event," Martin says. "The person sending the package feels good about sending a gift to someone special and about supporting Monarch. The recipient gets a thoughtful surprise. The people supported at Monarch have the chance to work on a special project while raising money for their cause."

For the last two years, Janet Monroe, assistant vice president of Community One Bank N.A. in Ellerbe, has supported Project Cupid.

"On Valentine's Day, in appreciation for the great teamwork of my staff, I have for the past two years surprised them with a special gift from Monarch's Project Cupid," Monroe said. "The girls enjoyed the cute stuffed bears and the delicious treats so much the first time that I decided to continue and support this great cause. I even included my family last year. I think that kindness in giving creates love, and what better way to create love than by participating in Project Cupid."

The deadline for delivery and pickup orders is Monday, Feb. 11, while supplies last. Packages will be delivered on Valentine's Day and $6 of the gift package is tax deductible. To place an order, contact Lisa Lisk at (910) 895-8466 or lisa.lisk@monarchnc.org.

Monarch provides supports and services statewide to thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and substance abuse challenges from more than 50 North Carolina counties.