The mission of the Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) is to improve the quality of life for families and communities through leadership development, volunteer service, and education. In Whitley County, one Extension Homemaker, working in coordination with the Whitley County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent, stepped into a leadership role and led a volunteer service project that engaged most of our Homemakers.

The Stitching Kindness Community Service Project addressed real needs shared by staff at Baptist Health Hospital in Corbin, Kentucky. Over the past year, more than 73 Whitley County Extension Homemakers participated and donated over 9,000 hours of volunteer service. They created and donated essential items for our community partners and neighbors. To date, they have made 66 Knitted Knockers, 91 comfort pillows, 55 toboggans, 21 blankets and throws, 30 travel pillows, 17 sets of infant caps, and 64 burp cloths—and they continue to give.

Among the most meaningful items are the Knitted Knockers—soft, knitted breast prosthetics offered free to individuals who have undergone mastectomies. Several women have written to express how much they appreciate them. Hospital staff shared, “We really appreciate them. Please let the Homemakers know how nice they are.”

The Stitching Kindness Community Service Project is a living example of KEHA’s mission in action. It shows strong leadership, thoughtful coordination, and the generous spirit of volunteerism that defines the Whitley County Extension Homemakers.