Making for a Purpose
***Before beginning any of these kinds of projects, determine if there is a need, and if there is, get specifics on what the organization or group requires.
Gina Seymour's book Makers with a Cause has some great ideas and tips, including more info on the examples below.
dog tug toys
Got a bunch of tshirts you don't need? Make tshirt yarn and use them for all kinds of projects. We made tug toys to donate to the animal shelter.
sleeping mats from plastic bags
We haven't tried this yet, but I've seen groups that make these mats for the homeless from plastic grocery bags.
appreciation station
Create a place where students can express their thank to other students, teachers, etc.
quilted heart project
Make these quilted hearts and leave them for others to find just to brighten someone's day. This could be a school-wide project, or global.
little dresses for africa
Use pillowcases to create simple dresses for children in African countries.
catnip toys
If you look on Pinterest, you'll find all kinds of variations on easy-to-make cat toys. These use baby socks and catnip, and require just a little bit of sewing.
Snuggles project
Make simple blankets to give to shelter pets.
operation gratitude
You can create a variety of projects for our service members overseas. They collect items for care packages, but you could also knit a scarf, make a paracord bracelet, or write a letter.
project linus
You can make a no-sew fleece blanket for children in hospitals, shelters, etc.
enchanted makeovers
Make things for women and children in crisis. There are sew and no-sew project options for blankets, super-hero capes, handmade dolls, traveling pillowcases, and patches.
the hugs project
SEWING FELT DONKEYS
The Donkey Sanctuary sells these on their website as a fundraiser. They have a pattern to download, but it does require knowing how to do a running (or blanket) stitch. This would not be a good beginner project, unless they just help with the cutting out, stuffing, etc.