Join Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor for National Sewing Day
The Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor group is inviting the community to join their National Sewing Day event on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Princeton Moose Lodge. This special day is dedicated to creating Quilts of Valor, which are awarded to veterans in recognition of their service.
The event not only showcases the intricate process of quilt-making but also aims to increase the production of these meaningful quilts. Participants can bring their own projects or work on provided kits, contributing to a cause that has awarded over 401,361 quilts since its inception.
The day will culminate in a Quilt of Valor ceremony and a fundraiser to support the ongoing efforts of the group.
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About the Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor
The Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor group has been an active participant in the national Quilts of Valor movement, which was started by quilter Catherine Roberts in 2003. The movement began when Roberts’ son was deployed in Iraq, and she felt compelled to create a quilt to comfort him.
Since then, the initiative has grown exponentially, with more than 401,361 quilts awarded to veterans and service members across the nation.
Local Impact
Since its establishment in April 2017, the Illinois Valley chapter has awarded over 800 quilts, with 189 quilts distributed in 2024 alone. The group’s efforts primarily focus on serving veterans in La Salle, Bureau, Putnam, northern Marshall, eastern Henry, and southern Lee counties.
Their dedication and hard work have made a significant impact in the local community, providing comfort and recognition to those who have served.
National Sewing Day Activities
National Sewing Day is a pivotal event for the Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor group, offering a unique opportunity for the public to get involved. The event will take place at the Princeton Moose Lodge, located at 1339 N. Euclid St.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own Quilts of Valor projects or work on one of the group’s provided kits. There are several ways to contribute:
- Sewing on labels and bindings
- Making quilt blocks or pillowcases
- Using the provided ironing and cutting stations
Attendees should bring their own sewing machines, notions, and rotary cutters. The event is designed to be a collaborative and educational experience, allowing participants to learn from seasoned quilters and contribute to a noble cause.
Quilt of Valor Ceremony
A highlight of the day will be the Quilt of Valor ceremony at 1 p.m., where five local veterans will be honored with quilts. This ceremony is a poignant reminder of the purpose behind the Quilts of Valor initiative, celebrating the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
Fundraiser to Support Quilt-Making
Following the sewing activities, the Princeton Moose Lodge will host a fundraiser from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. to support the cost of supplies needed to make the quilts.
Each quilt requires approximately 100 hours of work and costs between $300 and $350 to produce. The fundraiser will feature:
- Raffle baskets
- 50/50 drawing
- Music bingo
These activities are designed to engage the community and raise essential funds, ensuring the Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor group can continue their important work.
How to Participate
To participate in the National Sewing Day, interested individuals should RSVP to ensure an accurate seating count and to request a kit if needed. You can RSVP by calling Terry at 815-866-3534. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or a beginner, your participation is valuable and appreciated.
The Significance of Quilts of Valor
Quilts of Valor are more than just blankets; they are symbols of gratitude and respect for the service and sacrifice of our military personnel. Each quilt is handcrafted with care and presented in a ceremony that honors the recipient.
The Quilts of Valor Foundation’s mission is to cover all service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.
The impact of receiving a Quilt of Valor can be profound. For many veterans, it serves as a tangible reminder that their service is remembered and appreciated. The quilts often become cherished heirlooms, passed down through generations as a testament to the recipient’s bravery and dedication.
Join the Effort
National Sewing Day is a great opportunity for the community to support this meaningful cause. By participating, you can contribute to the creation of these beautiful quilts and help ensure that more veterans can be honored in the future.
Whether you bring your own project or work on a provided kit, your efforts will make a difference.
For more information about the event and how to get involved, visit the Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor’s official announcement.
Join us on Feb. 1 at the Princeton Moose Lodge and be part of a day dedicated to honoring our veterans through the art of quilting. Your participation and support are crucial to the success of this event and the ongoing mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation.
