Project Linus: A Worthy Service Project

On a cold Christmas Eve in 1995, Karen Louks read an article in Parade Magazine entitled "Joy to the World" about a little girl suffering through chemotherapy. This child said her security blanket helped her get through her intense treatments. Karen was moved by this article and decided to give homemade blankets to Denver's Rocky Mountain Children's Cancer Center. With that loving act, Project Linus was formed.

Several years ago, my co-leader of our Brownie Troop and I were looking for a service project for our girls. We came across a wonderful organization called Project Linus. According to the organization, the mission of Project Linus is simple:

"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."

Headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois, Project Linus has active chapters in all 50 states. Project Linus takes its name from the Peanuts comic strip character, Linus, who constantly toted his security blanket. The creator of Peanuts, Charles Shultz, was moved by the mission to comfort children in need and was happy to have Linus inspire blanketeers for the benefit of children.

People of all ages can enjoy this service project! All you or your group needs to do to participate in the Project Linus blanketeer program is to hand-make any type of blanket or afghan. These can be quilts, fleece blankets or infant receiving blankets. Some blanketeers choose to knit or crochet afghans. Children can easily participate in this service project by making tied fleece blankets. There are three requirements for submitting a blanket to Project Linus: the blanket must be new (made with new materials), handmade, and washable. Bright, colorful blankets are loved by children! Whether your blanket is elaborately made or simple tied fleece, a child will be comforted by your homemade creation.

Project Linus accepts homemade blankets of all sizes. Blankets are donated to children of all ages, infant through teen years, so any size is appropriate. You can find a variety of patterns for different types of blankets on the Project Linus website.

For more information on how to get started, click here to find your local chapter. Your chapter contact can tell you if they are in need of any specific size or type of blanket, but as stated before all handmade blankets that are new and washable will be accepted.

If you are looking for a rewarding service project for you or your favorite group, consider becoming a blanketeer and lovingly create a blanket for Project Linus. A child in need of love and comfort will be so happy you did!

Sources:

Personal Experience

Project Linus