I worked for 30+ years for the Department of Justice as a supervisory paralegal specialist. This position involved hours of courtroom time during criminal trials and left little time 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. 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 where 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, which within a year or so changed to the State Coordinator position. I was also our group’s leader until 2025 when I convinced another member to take over that position. I remain a co-leader for our local group. I am proud to say we now have eight 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 that I held for over four years. In 2021, I became the owner of a longarm machine so now I am able to longarm for our local Quilts of Valor group.

The Mission of QOVF has been 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 contact me. You’re not a quilter? Don’t worry; we can find some way for you to help.