1.) I just got word today of a need at UVRMC in Provo:
In times past, the Pediatric unit received blankets for children who were sick, critically ill or in need, from various good donors. For some reason the blanket donations have stopped--but the need is still very much an issue. This would be a perfect project for a youth group, church group or family service project--to make quilts or pick up new blanket donations for children locally.

Here are the specifics:

We need new quilts of any size, they must be bound around the edges to hold up to intense washing. We will give away quilts to those in need, we also like to put a nice quilt on the beds so that when the patients are admitted, it seems a little more like home.

For those that want to donate what you have...you can take them to the 4th floor (the building with the twirly door and up from the gift shop and snack bar). When you get off the elevator, there are two phones-pick up the one that says Pediatrics and tell the security person you have a blanket donation for Peds.

You can ask for Brenda or Debbie Hema-our Child Life Specialist, or Gena Sorensen-our Department Manager.



2.) Another opportunity to help comes from the never-tiring-of-good-works Sue:

The Service Soapbox bloggers are a group of over 70 women (and counting) who've joined forces to use their blogs for good, putting together local and virtual events designed to do a little good in the world.

They would love for you to join in the fun. Here's how:

In April, they've put together a series of events designed to raise awareness and products for the March of Dimes Teddy Bear Den. The Teddy Bear Den helps to prevent birth defects by giving low-income women baby-related incentives (diapers, baby clothes, wipes) for participating in prenatal care and for avoiding unhealthy behaviors like smoking and drinking during pregnancy.

If you live in Utah... Grab a pack of diapers (or a case!), baby clothes, blanket, or anything else baby related (see the wish list here), and join them as they gather baby items for the March of Dimes Teddy Bear Den Baby Shower. Come socialize with your fellow bloggers on Saturday, April 24th, from 10AM - 12PM at Noah's in South Jordan, as they enjoy refreshments, lots of great door prizes and tons of fun. (Learn more here)

If you DON'T live in Utah...The week after the event, starting on April 26th, they'll be hosting a virtual shower. Everyone who donates baby items to the Teddy Bear Den will be eligible to win great prizes from PC Laptops, Ulta, GiftTree, Target, Marilee Jean, Blush, Bellybuds, Minutes with Me, and many many more.

Writing Contest: On April 10th, they're hosting a writing contest designed to raise awareness. You'll be able to submit your new or old post about service, charity, birth defects or the March of Dimes. Five finalists will be selected by a panel of judges - and the readers will then select one lucky winner, who will receive a $100 gift basket.

We hope to see you there!


3.) I was just catching up on Justin Hackworth's 30 Strangers project. I was so pleased to see on April 1st a photoshoot with my friends Jen and Autumn Cobia. Six years ago to the date, Lily, Jen's daughter and Autumn's little sister unexpectedly passed away at nine months old. In getting to know this family in our neighborhood I have been amazed at their hope and faith. They know they will see Lillian again.

Justin did an outstanding photoshoot with them. You must see it here.