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Message from the Project Linus
NJ Director
In 1999, while reading through a popular woman’s
magazine I learned about a national effort which donated handmade
blankets to fragile children. That organization was Project Linus.
They launched on a simple message — comfort heals. I thought
about my own ability to make a contribution and decided I wasn’t
doing enough in my own community.
By week’s end I had contacted the national
assistant in Colorado and made the commitment to coordinate a local
chapter here in monmouth county. We began as a small group of crafters.
Our first blanket delivery was reported as a small news item in
the local paper and quicker that I ever dreamed hundreds of phone
calls, emails and letters arrived from New Jersey residents. What
followed became the start of a unique volunteer corps involved
in helping this charity work. “When you open your heart
to giving, angels fly to your door.”
I served nine months as a Chapter Coordinator for
monmouth county when a letter arrived from Project Linus national
that the Founder would be stepping down to follow new avenues of
opportunity and that a new President would be sought. During the
three-month period that nationals future was uncertain, PLNJ
volunteers encouraged me to seek freestanding status and focus on
fragile children in our state while fostering partnerships
with national and international child based relief organizations.
With the help of professionals in the nonprofit sector and a wonderful
NYC foundation, Project Linus NJ, Inc. was born!
Remarkably there are now nine incredible years
to look back on. I am extremely proud to acknowledge the tireless
efforts and heartfelt care more than 5,000+ volunteers offer each
and every year to fragile children under the PLNJ name. We thrive
as a nonprofit agency because people from all walks of life continue
to come forward. Blanket makers, delivery drivers, and “good
news” volunteers. Each brings a talent to offer, each makes
time to focus on fragile children. PLNJers prove that a grassroots
organization doesn’t mean soft program. We encourage the
importance of a simple gesture, a comforting touch and the message
hope brings.
I’ve learned a great deal about the power
of one kind act, the state of volunteerism in our country and
the strength we each find in working together for the common
good. We are partners in healing, on a mission of hope. Solidarity
keeps the angel lifted.
Hugs to all my friends in volunteerism,
and to the children who forever change our hearts,
Hillary Roberts
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