According to a 2018 study by Walden University, “Occupational therapy research indicated that women used quilt making as therapy during everyday stress and also during times of exceptional stress.” In fact, many researchers consider that heritage arts are utilized as a form of therapy in rural areas where access to mental health resources are less available. 

Our Master Clothing volunteer as well as several community volunteers sought to continue on the tradition of quilting for that reason. They planned, prepared, and executed a week-long day camp covering the basics of quilting as well as several common quilt patterns. Seven 4-H’ers would work hand in hand with four homemakers to develop these skills and complete at least one project. Special care was taken to insure the number of youth participating didn’t exceed the ability of volunteers to build strong relationships with participants. 

“It’s nice to see young people so interested in learning!” said one volunteer, “It’ll be up to them soon but I think this bunch could handle it.” Each member reported learning a new skill and one reported this was her first experience with 4-H.