Friday, February 19, 2010

A Remarkable Venture

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." ~ Theodore Roosevelt
Wednesday, February 3rd, we went to the American Fork Stake Center at 825 East 500 North to join at least a hundred other men and women assisting in the Humanitarian Efforts that started 19 years ago by this remarkable woman,  RoseAnn Guenther.  And as busy as she was, she greeted us at the door and offered to give us a tour of everything going on in the Stake Center that morning. 
Ladies were crocheting and knitting newborn hats and booties as well as chemo caps.
Blankets were being tyed, yards and yards of fabric were being cut out for children's jumpers and pajamas, other fabrics were being put together for more quilts. There were at least 20 sewing machines and sergers set up on the stage going full blast. 
Others were putting together beaded toys for children. When we walked in the lovely aroma of freshly baked bread greeted us and RoseAnn explained that a man and his wife bake bread and sell it each week in order for the Launfal Foundation, the non-profit organization that supports this huge venture, to purchase more supplies. Also for sale were children's hair ribbons, crocheted hair bands and other fun things. The Launfal Foundation was named after Sir Launfal found in a 14th century poem written by Thomas Chestre. In the poem, Sir Launfal is one of King Arthur's knights and is known for his chivalry and giving of gifts.

Through RoseAnn's dedication and a highly skilled team of volunteers, this Stake Center is turned into an amazing production facility every Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  Every month they fill cargo containers that are shipped around the world to fill needs~ and it is their hope that the people who receive these things will feel the love and caring that go into the making of them and light and hope.
After our morning of labor, we all went to Zuppas for lunch~ and it is highly recommended!
Rae Lee, Jan, Paulette and Carolyn ~ enjoying the delicious soup, salad and sandwiches at Zuppas!

Carolyn, Ardis and Phyllis (and Sandy's behind the camera!)