After 7 years as the Director of the Nebraska Chapter of Project Linus, Bobbie Connolly is stepping down and handing the reins of this successful organization over to a very enthusiastic group of ladies.

Once the news was out that Connolly was bidding farewell, she was contacted by current volunteers interested in keeping the chapter going. Delores Lintel has agreed to be the new
Director with Aldine Jackson, Beth Kerns-Krause and Mary Brox helping with the many aspects of running the chapter. With these capable ladies at the helm the chapter is back on track, accepting blankets and making donations.

Project Linus is a national, not for profit organization whose core mission is to provide new, handmade blankets to children going through difficult situations because of illness, abuse, trauma, neglect, etc.; anything that would cause a child to feel alone, scared or unsure of a situation they are facing. From terminal illness to a natural disaster, feeling out of control can make anyone unsettled especially a child. Project Linus feels that a blanket that a child can hold onto during these times gives them a sense of security (hence the name - reflecting the Peanuts character "Linus" and his ever present piece of security) and a feeling of control, which in turn will ease their anxiety. All blankets are handmade by a special group of "blanketeers" who use their considerable talent to make wonderful, colorful, warm blankets for children they'll never meet; their only goal is to help another human being.

Connolly started the Nebraska Chapter of this organization in May of 1996. Seven years later almost 8,000 blankets have been donated and distributed to children across the state. Hospitals, abuse shelters, police and fire departments, social agencies and individuals are just a few areas where blankets have been donated. Anywhere there is a need to help a child, Project Linus Nebraska wants to be there. "There's good news and bad news to this situation" said Connolly. "The good news is that the chapter has grown so much and became so successful - however the bad news is the chapter needs a lot more attention than I can dedicate at this time given I have a full time job, and I also want to spend more time with my family", said Connolly. "I could not be more proud of how the chapter has grown thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who have contributed over the years. They are truly a unique group of people who have touched so many, many lives".

Besides handmade blankets, Project Linus Nebraska also accepts donations of yarn, cotton and cotton blend material, batting, stamps, thread, envelopes, paper, etc. as well as monetary donations. The new drop off site for the Lincoln area is 5600 Cloudburst Lane. If you are interested in getting involved with Project Linus Nebraska here is the contact information:

Lincoln
Delores Lintel - 477-2260 - little-red-hen@juno.com
Aldine Jackson - 423-0172- GilJackson@aol.com

Southeast Nebraska
Beth Kerns Krause - 242-2521 - krausehome@alltel.net