Quilt Sale
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The result of the District Conference Quilt Sale was just amazing, and far beyond anything I had hoped for. The initial idea was to engage Rotarians and partners who felt they didn’t have any gift to offer. The talent of these women is hugely underestimated and I wanted to tap into that talent to show them that they are “A Gift To The World” and that they could contribute to Rotary Foundation-Maternal and Child Care.
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| Quilters from all over the district understood my desire to help the women of undeveloped countries who struggle to create life. This cause was an emotional one where we can directly compare ourselves to those who have no support in their time of need. Mothers and fathers all over our district were able to relate to the advantages we have in this country when our babies arrive. In fact over $1000 was donated by Rotarians who were inspired to contribute. |
Many quilters were able to inspire many of their friends from different quilting groups to contribute. Following the Rotary Down Under article in the March addition, I received quilts from all over Australia, wanting to participate and contribute to the cause of Maternal and Child Health.
In all, I received 78 quilts, of which all but 5 found new homes. The five have been returned to the clubs or quilters to be used for fundraising. The amount raised from the sale of the quilts was a staggering $7783.
Trying a new concept is always a risk, but only through risk do we grow and learn.
I must thank all those who encouraged me throughout this project--Marg Bandiara/Griffith Avanti, Lyn McDowell/Boorowa, and Julie Darley/Orange North--who were able to offer assistance just when I needed extra help and advice.
Having Rotary Clubs support the quilters with supplies was an excellent idea, as was utilising partners of Rotary Club members who sought help from local quilting groups. Spotlight Griffith were amazing in their support to the Griffith area. I must mention the quilters of Coolamon, Temora, Griffith, Yenda, Orange Calare and the Galong Quilters--their efforts were just magnificent.
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I must also thank all of you who purchased the quilts; your contribution to the success of this project was as vital as to those who provided the quilts. Enjoy them, treasure them and I know they will keep you warm, because they are made with love and the desire to help others.
With the conference speakers being so good and everyone wanting to sit in on sessions, which is what the conference was all about, my daughter Tiffany and granddaughter Annabelle cut their holiday short to return to Wagga Wagga to “hold the fort” while the conference was in session. Not only am I very grateful, I am very proud of their thoughtfulness and consideration to Gary and my needs that weekend. We certainly couldn’t have managed without them.
I must also thank Sally Short (Wagga) for her assistance, also Maria Egan, who on short notice ran the raffle which raised over $500, and to Gary for his reassurance and encouragement.
With this project complete D9700 has been A Gift To The World!
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