Before retiring in 2015, I worked for 30+ years at the Department of Justice in Fargo, North Dakota, as a supervisory paralegal specialist. This position involved hours of courtroom time during criminal trials and left little time left for volunteering. Since retirement, I now volunteer for our church as treasurer, newsletter editor, and website person. I belong to the local American Legion Auxiliary and attend several American Legion events with my Marine husband. With four grandchildren nearby, there is always something to do. In 2021, I became the owner of a longarm machine, so I have lots to learn, first practicing on several church quilts and now working on Quilts of Valor. Flower and vegetable gardening are a passion, so I volunteer at Master Gardener events – but that season only lasts so long in ND.
In April 2018, a few of us formed a QOVF group in North Dakota; I became the Group Leader. There were only two QOVF groups in ND when we formed, both located in the southeast corner. Through our group’s exposure, QOVF quickly became known in the area, so I was asked if I would assume the role of eastern District Coordinator. We now have five QOVF groups across the State of North Dakota!
In addition to my involvement with our local Stitching Hearts QOV group, in 2020, I became the managing editor of the Foundation’s newsletter Threads and accepted the State Coordinator role. The Mission of QOVF has become an integral part of my volunteer service – a service that I believe to be so important. Our Veterans and Service Members deserve nothing less.
If you are interested in helping us fulfill our Mission, please get in touch with me. You’re not a quilter? Don’t worry; we can find some way for you to help.