Established in 2005, the Orillia Quilters’ Guild has become a vibrant and dedicated community of quilters who have created and donated hundreds of quilts, placemats and dialysis bags to local organizations and special initiatives.
With a shared passion for quilting, the guild also hosts workshops featuring guest speakers and providing opportunities for members to connect and grow their skills.
Members of the Orillia Quilters’ Guild generously contribute handmade quilts to oncology and dialysis patients at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital, as well as to local fire departments, nursing homes, veterans, refugees and others in need of comfort and care.
In addition to their charitable efforts, the guild organizes quilt shows to raise funds for meaningful causes. Their Sunshine Quilt Show features exhibits, quilting demonstrations, vendor booths, a member’s market and a raffle. All proceeds from the event are donated to Trillium Manor to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
These meaningful contributions make the Orillia Quilters’ Guild a deserving recipient of this year’s OrilliaMatters Community Builders Award in the Arts category.
“This was a lovely surprise,” said Kathy Gray, member of the Orillia Quilters’ Guild. “We put in a lot of hard work so it’s nice to be acknowledged.”
“We all love to sew and quilt and help out. It’s a good feeling when you start out with little pieces and put them together and see a finished project,” she shared.
The local guild has approximately 100 members. Each member donates their own time, energy and fabric to help the community.
Additional organizations that have received the group’s generosity include Helping Hands, The Lighthouse, Child & Youth Advocacy Centre Simcoe Muskoka, North Simcoe Victim Services, Gilda’s Club and many more.
Rather than seeking personal profit, members selflessly donate their work to these good causes, reflecting their talent and compassion.
Their efforts are seen as a true labour of love, and the guild remains committed to making a meaningful difference through dedication and community service.
The Arts award recognizes an individual or group that has significantly strengthened the artistic community. Their work has amplified the arts and contributed to the community’s growth and vitality.
Congratulations to the team at Orillia Quilters’ Guild!
This award is proudly sponsored by Print & Signs (Georgian Bay Printers).
