For several years now NJNA members have participated in the Festival of Trees out at the Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge NJ. We have put up a tree and decorated it with needlepoint ornaments, a different theme each year. We have received many compliments for the appearance of our tree and were even asked if any of the ornaments were for sale. We also made Needlepointer’s Magazine in 2022

Soon we will be making a presentation at the Somerset County Senior Wellness Center at Bridgewater. Someone picked up our business card during the Festival of Trees and called to see if some of us would give a talk on the art of needlepoint. One of the main talking points will be that this hobby does not have to be learned thru your grandmother. You can learn needlepoint at any age. Sue C and others will be aiming for an entertaining presentation and as part of it she is going to share stories from the members of NJNA on how they got started stitching.

Another out reach program is being held in conjunction with Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck. Thru their Cancer Support Program run by Courtney L., Program Director, lessons are being given on how to needlepoint. The ladies participating in the program had never done it before or had just started to stitch a project on her own and came to see if she was doing it correctly.

They all went from zero to 60 within a few sessions. With the help of Pam at the Edwardian Needle donating what ever is needed, stash donations from various members of NJNA, help from Sew Much Fun in kitting one of their canvases along with supplying a stitch guide and Linda M’s husband is very happy to have donated an entire bag of stretcher bars to the cause. All of these donations have made a big difference to these women to broaden their ability to needlepoint, relax, enjoy the company of others and more. Research shows that social and emotional support plays a powerful role in well-being, particularly throughout the cancer journey. I think this is true even if you have not been stricken with cancer.

Anyone that would like to drop by to stitch with us, we are in a Hackensack office bldg. most Tuesday afternoons. Here is a few of the projects the ladies are working on or have completed.

We are always on the look out for more out reach programs. If you have a suggestion we would love to hear about it.