About the Chapter
Project Linus is a 100% volunteer non-profit national organization with a two-fold mission.
- First, it is our mission to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”
- Second, it is our mission to provide a rewarding and fun service opportunity for interested individuals and groups in local communities, for the benefit of children.
On Christmas Eve in 1995, an article appeared in Parade Magazine entitled, "Joy to the World." Part of the article featured a petite, downy haired child. She had been going though intensive chemotherapy and stated that her security blanket had helped her get through treatments. Karen Loucks decided to provide homemade security blankets to Denver's Rocky Mountain Children's Cancer Center. Project Linus was born!
Project Linus was named after the adorable security blanket-toting character from the Peanuts comic strip. Creator Charles Schulz was aware of our efforts and delighted to have Linus inspire blanket makers to help comfort children in need.
In December 2007 there are 406 chapters of Project Linus, with 2,293,340 blankets delivered nationwide.
The Portland chapter was established in May, 2001 by Coordinator, Marla Zupancic. Word spread quickly about Project Linus in the Portland metro area. Enthusiastic volunteers came forward immediately and the numbers have continued to grow. The lives of many children and teenagers have been made a little brighter by the beautiful blankets lovingly made by so many caring individuals and groups. Our generous volunteers have made and donated 17,342 blankets!
Please support us in any way you can in this ongoing effort to bring a smile to those children, ages 0-18 who are seriously ill or traumatized by wrapping them in a blanket of love.
This page updated 4/1/08