The knit in is a program run through the Service, Leadership
and Community Engagement (SLCE) office. Each year we identify an area that
could really use some handmade goods. There is no preemie unit here in Laramie,
so we chose to make blankets, hats, and booties for St. Luke's. This is where
many of the preemies from Laramie and the surrounding area go for care. The
project was wonderful because the items can be started and finished within the
time of the knit in. We ended up donating over 75 handmade blankets, hats, and
booties.
Volunteers come together to have a good time and knit, crochet, or make tie blankets together, and catch up with each other. We happily teach people how to do some basic crocheting and knitting, as well as how to make tie blankets. As a Graduate Assistant in the SLCE office, I really enjoyed getting to help people make items for a great cause as well as learn a new skill. A UW staff member recently had a child in the preemie unit, as it was great to have the chance to see how grateful the family was.
I am currently enrolled in the Masters of Public Administration program here at UW. I came to UW for the unique advantages the outreach school offers, as well as having a chance to get involved in the community through SLCE. Through the outreach program I have gotten to see more of Wyoming than just Laramie, all while expanding my education. I have been able to learn more than I ever would have out of books alone through the experiences of my classmates and professors. The SLCE program has offered me a chance to develop leadership skills while helping the community.
Rachael Sherman
SLCE Leadership Graduate Assistant
