The Bald Eagle Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) is collaborating with local quilting groups to support veterans in Cedar City. Through partnerships with organizations like Patches4Patriots, the chapter helps provide handmade comforts to veterans in local senior and assisted living facilities.
Supporting Local Veterans
The Bald Eagle Chapter's Service to Veterans Committee maintains a steady presence in the community by distributing handmade items to veterans. Among these items are lap Afghans that members crochet specifically for veterans residing in senior and assisted living homes throughout the Cedar City area.
In addition to these efforts, the chapter maintains a close working relationship with the local Quilts of Valor group known as Patches4Patriots. The chapter assists the group by making blocks that are used in the creation of these quilts, ensuring a steady supply of materials for the organization's mission.
Coordinating Quilts of Valor
Crystal Farinella, the Utah State Coordinator for the Quilts of Valor Foundation, is a resident of Cedar City who has been involved with the organization for several years. A retired teacher with 19 years of experience, Farinella moved to the area in 2015 and remains an active member of the QOF Stars Working Facebook group.
Farinella, who has been married to her husband Michael for 33 years, uses her interest in crocheting and quilting to support the foundation's mission of honoring veterans. She noted that the foundation provides an opportunity to engage with a community of individuals who share her passion for making quilts for the organization.
Community and Civic Engagement
The Bald Eagle Chapter is involved in a variety of community initiatives beyond veteran services. The chapter supports the Women's Issues Committee by providing regular donations to the Women's Shelter and the St. Martha's Baby Basket Project. These baskets are provided to women at the local hospital who have recently delivered babies and lack necessary supplies to bring them home.
Additionally, the chapter participates in several other committees, including the Flag of the United States Committee, the Conservation Committee, the National Defense Committee, and the America 250 initiative. The group also works with Wreaths Across America, covering Cedar City, Enoch, Summit, Paragonah, and Escalante.
Civic Education Efforts
The chapter's commitment to civic education was highlighted during Constitution Week, a period where the group participates in local proclamations. Cedar City Mayor Green has signed a proclamation for the occasion, which the chapter displays in its library display case.
During these efforts, the chapter distributes constitutions to local fifth-grade students. In a recent cycle, the group handed out more than 900 constitutions to students, accompanied by tests that local teachers utilize in their classrooms.
Chapter Mission and Growth
The Bald Eagle Chapter remains active in various commemorative and social events. The group's Commemorative Events Committee notably won first place at the 2023 July 4th Parade while presenting a float.
Members also participate in Americanism Committee activities, such as attending naturalization ceremonies at Bryce Canyon to welcome new citizens. The chapter continues to seek new members to join its various committees, describing itself as a small but highly active and committed group of women.
Recognized Service
The organization's impact is further recognized through awards, including a national award for its work with Wreaths Across America. The chapter's leadership has been instrumental in increasing participation from local city leaders in these veteran-focused programs.
Call for Volunteers
The Bald Eagle Chapter encourages interested individuals to join their efforts, noting that the organization is actively welcoming new members. The group operates with a highly organized team structure to manage its various community projects and committees.
