Threads of Kindness: Westcliff Volunteers Weave Community Through No-Sew Blankets

As spring breathes new life into the world, the Westcliff community is blooming with kindness — coming together for the no-sew blanket event, a heartwarming initiative in partnership with OC United Way. More than 20 students, staff, and faculty members volunteered their time to craft blankets that will bring warmth and comfort to those in need. This year, the blankets will be donated to a local shelter serving veterans through Volunteers of America.

Building More Than Blankets

Held in a lively yet serene environment, the event created an atmosphere of camaraderie and purpose. With soothing music in the background, volunteers worked together to assemble soft fleece blankets — each one accompanied by a thoughtful handwritten message designed to leave a lasting impact. True to their name, no-sew blankets require no stitching, making them easy to create but incredibly valuable to those who receive them.

Even though many of the volunteers didn’t know each other well at first, the shared experience of creating something together helped foster a sense of connection. To make sure participants felt comfortable and had a chance to get to know one another, a few rounds of “Would You Rather” were played, switching partners and sparking fun conversation before diving into the craft.

“Sitting across from others, it naturally fosters a sense of community. It encourages conversation and helps people get to know one another,” shared Miranda Tula, volunteer engagement coordinator. “That’s why, as coordinators, we also take the time to sit with different groups, ask questions, and engage, ensuring that volunteers feel connected while also building our own connections with them.”

The Power of Giving

For many, events like these are an introduction to volunteer work, and they often inspire a lasting commitment to giving back. Miranda reflected on the importance of creating a culture of service:

“Learning to give is like building a muscle or forming a habit — the more you do it, the stronger it becomes, and the more you want to keep doing it. These initiatives may be someone’s first experience with volunteering, and if they find joy in it, they’re more likely to seek out other opportunities, give more, and contribute to creating a stronger, more connected community.”

When asked what she would say to encourage someone considering volunteering at a future event, Miranda enthusiastically responded, “I’d say, ‘Go for it!’ Volunteering opens up so many amazing opportunities — whether you’re looking to meet new people, be part of something meaningful, or connect with your community. Whatever your reason, it’s definitely worth giving it a try.” 

Looking Ahead: More Opportunities to Give Back

Westcliff’s commitment to service doesn’t stop here. The no-sew blanket event is just one of many initiatives designed to make a positive impact. Those looking to make a difference can continue getting involved through a variety of upcoming opportunities. To explore ways to get involved, visit the Westcliff Social Responsibility webpage for more information on upcoming events.

A heartfelt thank you to anyone who has ever volunteered through Westcliff – your generosity and dedication go beyond the events themselves.