A note from Deb Roberts:  In my book, there isn't a more generous group than those who love quilts. Perhaps it is because of the kindred spirit involved in quilts and quiltmaking, but I have always found the most giving people I know are among the population of those who share this passion.  

 

The idea for a fundraising cruise or tour is not a new one, there are several organizations that provide philanthropic support to various charitable organizations. However, in recent months I have become aware of just how deep the economic impact of 2009 has affected several quilt and textile related non-profit organizations - to the extent that their continued existence is threatened.  In conversations with several quilt community leaders I came to believe that increased support might be realized if more information were available to what I call the quilt population at large.  Most are very interested to know about quilt related efforts - especially those they never knew existed.

In September 2008, I was pretty secure in plans to promote the First Annual Quilt Cruise for Quilt History, Arts and Scholarship, and then, Hurricane Ike hit Texas.  At the time I was reminded of the devastation of Katrina in New Orleans, yet it seemed that many had moved on from the thoughts of these victims. However, through personal experience I knew that those in the New Orleans area are still desperately affected by this catastrophe.  'Ike' in a nutshell added more burden to our government's economy and to disaster relief organizations. 

 

The news of economic failures and geographical calamities caused me to consider the state of the world and the catastrophic events over the last eight years - since the Presidential Election of 2000. Beyond Wall Street, there is little wonder that the world is on the brink of further economic chaos. In the US alone we have had 9/11, an eight year drought in the mid-west, hurricane and tornado damage beyond compare, multiple destructive California wild-fires and floods and this is just to mention just a few; world-wide the list is so long that it causes me to shudder when I consider it.

I am well aware of the economic burdens facing many today, but I know that people who can will still travel and take vacations. Recently one traveler told me. "It is time I stop getting things for myself and start doing something for myself...." and I agree.  It is my hope that through what is now Quilt Cruise for a Cause®  in some small way I can help to promote the various organizations we will help AND allow those who travel with me to give as well. What better way to go than to go somewhere knowing that proceeds from your choice will go to organizations that benefit the quilt arts and to help those in need?

For this reason, my goal through these cruises or tours will be to support Quilt History, Art and Scholarship as well as US/World Disaster Relief through the American Red Cross and Samaritan's Purse.

The 2009 Quilt Organization donation recipient will be The Quilters Hall of Fame - find out more about them and their incredible contributions to quilters and quiltmaking at http://www.quiltershalloffame.net