Giving from Our Hands and Our Hearts
If you would like to touch lives in your community using your creative sewing, knitting or crocheting skills, consider this program. Volunteers create items like quilts, afghans, shawls, fidget/activity quilts, mittens, face masks and more to donate to nonprofit organizations to help people of all ages throughout Dane County. On average, approximately 15,000 items are made and distributed annually to help others stay warm, safe and comfortable. Click here for a list of organizations that have received our handmade items.
Our volunteers often tell us this program is what gets them going in the morning—to give from the hand and the heart to neighbors in Dane County. Whether you choose to enjoy the camaraderie of a sewing or knitting group (Group Projects) or create your donations independently and safely at home (Homeworker), you will be able to use your creative passion to make a difference in people’s lives. There are optional patterns and supplies available, but this truly is an opportunity to make what you love and how you love to make it, whenever you have time and desire. All skill levels welcome!
How to Volunteer
To find a sewing or knitting group near you or register as a homeworker, send an email to Julia Pierstorff at jpierstorff@rsvpdane.org or call Julia at 608-310-7280.
Donations are Gladly Accepted
Each year, RSVP recycles thousands of pounds of donated materials. Instead of being sent to landfills, these items are crafted into beautiful, handmade items that are much appreciated by the community members who receive them. If you have acrylic or washable yarns, cotton quilting fabric, fleece, flannel, denim, corduroy, upholstery fabric, sewing notions or batting to donate, email Julia Pierstorff at jpierstorff@rsvpdane.org or call 608-310-7280.
How to Receive Our Handcrafted Donations
If you represent a community group or local nonprofit agency and need items of warmth and safety to give to those you serve, please download a Request for Handmade Items Form in printable pdf format and mail to:
Julia Pierstorff
RSVP of Dane County
6501 Watts Road Suite 250
Madison, WI 53719
or scan and email the form to jpierstorff@rsvpdane.org or fax it to 608-238-7931. We will be honored and delighted to share our volunteer-crafted donations with your organization. Each item is beautifully unique and offers warmth, safety, comfort and supportive sentiment.