Project Linus is a non-profit organization dedicated to keeping children feeling loved, safe, and warm. Olivia has been involved with donating quilts to Project Linus for over five years and loves spreading the word about such a fulfilling and heartfelt organization.

Project Linus has a distinct mission, for it encompasses not just those who receive blankets, but those who enjoy donating the blankets. The Project Linus website states that it’s mission is twofold:

First, it is our mission to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer ‘blanketeers.’ Second, it is our mission to provide a rewarding and fun service opportunity for interested individuals and groups in local communities, for the benefit of children.

How you can help:

For starters, check out Project Linus’ website, to read letters, hear stories, and learn more about the organization.

You could donate a handmade quilt or blanket to your local chapter.

You can contact Olivia about hosting a “Patch Drive” at your local school, church, family event, scout meeting, etc. Olivia originated the concept of the “Patch Drive” in which anyone, of any age, anywhere, can write or draw on blank patches of fabric which will then be sewn into a quilt. While talking to people about quilting Olivia realized that non-sewers were upset that they could not have a hand in the quilting process; thus, Olivia began handing out blank patches for people to draw on which she sewed into quilts. People loved seeing their patches intertwined in quilts; it gave them a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment, without even picking up a needle and thread.

Olivia can help you set up a Patch Drive at your school where students, teachers, and faculty can design many patches for quilts. The drawn-on patches will be sewed into quilts which will in turn be donated to Project Linus from the school or group. Collaborating on a quilt for Project Linus is a fantastic way to get students involved in community service, assist scout troops in getting their badge for helping others, or provide a way for church or family members to bond. The possibilities are limitless, and feel free to contact Olivia if you need some guidance. But, remember all it takes to help is the desire to spread warmth and the yearning to give love.