What's it all about?

Our volunteer program is in the Appalachian Mountain Region of Kentucky and provides a Christian service opportunity for adult Catholic women. The Fall Sewing Week is being developed with The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension—Lewis County. Volunteers will join local homemakers and youth on community-focused sewing projects. The week is sponsored by past volunteers who have formed the nonprofit corporation Women In Service to Appalachia.

University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension - Lewis County

Where are we going?

We will serve in and around Lewis County, a rural area in the northeastern corner of Kentucky mostly shaped by tobacco farming. We stay at the Glenmary Farm in Vanceburg.  It is a year-round volunteer facility, that hosts various volunteer groups who come to serve the community of Lewis County.  "The Farm" provides a peaceful and beautiful setting from which to come and go.

Visit Lewis County, KY Website

What will I do?

Volunteers for this week should have proficient sewing skills and the interest in working and sharing those skills with others on a group-based sewing project. Volunteers may be asked to bring their portable sewing machine, and to possibly contribute sewing supplies and fabric.

The actual items for our 2010 project have not been determined yet.  Our goal is to have a planning session in Spring 2010 to discuss the choices for this year.  They will be listed here once we have more information.

 I can't come, but can I help with the projects?

There will be the opportunity to spread the word, collect fabric and assemble sewing kits.  We will keep you posted here as the plans develop.

Where will Stay?

You will live in community with the other volunteers at the 56-acre Glenmary Farm near Vanceburg, Kentucky, experiencing first hand working with people in Lewis County. Activities will focus on sewing, but may also include volunteering in a local nursing home or community center, tending the farm, and visiting with neighbors.

We discuss the values of the culture and the socioeconomic conditions and problems of the area. It is a time of service, education, prayer, reflections and community sharing.

What does it cost?

The total cost is $250, but we only ask volunteers to contribute $195. If you are able to contribute the full amount, it will be gratefully accepted. If you would like to volunteer, but can't contribute $195, financial aid is available upon application. Volunteers also are responsible for their transportation to our gathering place in Cincinnati.  Transportation supplements are available for people living beyond a 350-mile radius of the Greater Cincinnati Airport upon application.

How do I apply?

Click HERE for an application.

Still have questions?

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