Volunteer to speak or fundraise for your local QOVF.

Years ago, I took a Dale Carnegie course because I was terrified speaking in a group setting. One of the major points I learned from that excellent course was the following: Know your subject matter and speak from the heart. 

Before you go speak, you might want to consider the following suggestions.

1. Identify your need.

2. Arrange date to speak before group. Ask how much time you have to speak and how they prefer you ask for a donation.

3. Try to get a combat warrior (active or veteran) who has been to Iraq/Afghanistan to accompany you to speak about their time standing in harm's way. A good place to start if you don't know anyone is your local Military Recruiting Office.

4. Get your props ready: Quilts in all stages, business cards, dvds.  Most people do NOT know how a quilt is made.

5. Write a request letter to be given to the president of the group. Be specific in your request for whatever it is you are asking for. Explain what you are doing, why, how much you need and what you will do with the donation.

6. Follow up speaking engagement preferably with a handwritten thank you note.