Getting Crafty with the Seniors

Mary Kos, a volunteer at the Oak Lawn Senior Center is helping make a difference in many people’s lives. Mary has been hosting a free Arts and Crafts class since September of 2013 at the Senior Center. The class meets twice a month, the first and third Thursday of each month. Kos says, “The purpose of the class is to give the senior participants a purpose in life, and something to look forward to. The class is also a great way to give back to the community and a way to show care for one another.”

Mary plans, prepares and coordinates each class activity on her own and is provided with minimal resources to work with and says that “donations are a blessing we are so grateful for. When I plan a project I have to make sure I have enough money to get what I need before I go any further.” The arts and crafts class has made many various items including minion hats, chemo scarves, crochet newborn caps, crochet slippers, fleece blankets and supportive back pillows. Although the crafts may seem very complex for beginners, Mary makes sure to break down all activities into simple steps and she is always there to help. I have participated in a few classes myself and enjoy the company of the seniors as well as the gratitude of creating comfort items for those who are sick.  All the items created during the class are donated to the Hope Children’s Hospital and the Women Cancer Center at Advocate Christ Hospital. The senior center has received many thank you letters and emails for all that they have done to help those who are sick to feel more comfortable.

Seniors from all communities are welcome to join the Oak Lawn Senior Center arts and crafts class. Mary says, “We would love to have anyone that can make it to this Free Class.”

 Mary dedicates a lot of her time and own money into the arts and crafts class. Mary is always looking for extra materials, such as fabrics (similar to quilting fabric), light weight knits (used for chemo scarves), buttons, scrap fabric, yarn, sewing materials and any other craft supplies you may have.

If you would like to donate any items to the art class please feel free to contact Mary Kos at mlkos@sbcglobal.net

Mary, thank you for all that you do for the community.

Samar Shelby

Transitional Care Consultant

Qualicare Family HomeCare

www.Paloshomecare.com