Today I saw a post on a Facebook makers' group about a fundraiser for a family that has experienced a recent tragedy in a nearby town. I don't know the family, or the fundraiser organizers, but I instantly knew that I would contribute a piece for their silent auction or raffle.
Then I sat down at my frame to hook this afternoon, for the first time in a long time, and realized that the piece I'm working on is also a donation. But a very different one. This one will be one of many donated to an organization to mark a special anniversary. I have no ties to the organization, and it's not in my town or even my province.
That got me to thinking about why I like to donate my work, and reasons for doing so. I thought I'd share those thoughts.
1. If 10, twenty or a hundred people donate an item that can be auctioned or raffled, just think of the potential! Yet for each individual, it's not too much to ask.
2. Sometimes you don't have the financial capacity to provide a cash donation, but you might have a finished piece in stock that you can offer, or the materials in-hand to make a custom item.
3. It warms your heart to know that you've done something to help someone you don't even know.
4. The recipient, whether it be the organization or person for whom the group has fundraised, or just the lucky winner of the auction or raffle, may be introduced to a new fibre art that they've not seen before. They may fall in love! They may find themselves hooked! Or at the very least, they will hopefully enjoy the piece for some time to come.
5. It gives the fundraisers something to put on display, or use as an image for getting the word out about their project.
6. You might inspire other artists and makers to donate their work as well.
7. Custom making a piece gives you the joy of thinking about the cause with every stitch made or hoop pulled. You can put a bit of love into everything you do.
8. You give back to your community, no matter how large, and by doing so, encourage others to do so too.
We never know when we might be the ones to need help. Tragedy strikes every day, and it's heartbreaking to see and hear what some people have to endure. If I can take one tiny part of their grief away, then I've done my part.
In the case of an organization marking a special occasion, well isn't it nice to give a nod to a great event even if it's not directly part of your own world? It's certainly an opportunity to get to know new people and expand your horizons.
No pics today as the rug on my frame is still in progress. I'll be sure to share it with you when it's done!
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