Project Linus Warm Hearts
It has only been a few months since Chardon High School experienced tragedy on February 27 that changed the lives of so many. Immediately following the events, people began contributing their time, talents, and treasures to help our community heal.
Project Linus was one of the many organizations who dedicated themselves to helping Chardon High School. Project Linus is a non-profit organization with a mission of providing the ill and traumatized with a sense of security and love through new, handmade blankets. The organization believes that every child deserves a hug, which is why these blankets are distributed to children in need all over the country. The name Linus came from Charlie Brown’s friend, Linus, who always carried his security blanket with him everywhere he went. These blankets provide the students, just like Linus, with the feeling of safety and comfort. Chardon students were touched by their willingness to provide a safe, fun, and comforting gift by bringing hundreds of blankets to their school. Each student was able to pick out their own personal blanket.
The students were overwhelmed with feelings of love and support.
It was amazing walking into the gym, seeing all the blankets, knowing that people had taken time to make us something as comforting as a blanket.” said Jessica F. a student of Chardon.
Fellow student Catherine M. said, “It was great to feel the support and comfort from complete strangers.” The blankets provided by Project Linus gave the students the feeling that they were not alone and that there are people outside of the Chardon community who care and want to support them.
Parents also felt very appreciative of Project Linus’ contribution. Susan Pestello, mother of junior, Emily, and freshman, Austin, said,
“It was the first time since the shooting that I saw that many smiles! I will never forget the feeling of relief I, as a parent, felt when I saw that smile on my daughter and son and the other students.”
The Chardon High School students were so moved by the generosity of Project Linus that they wanted to pay it forward. With funding from the Chardon Healing Fund, students were able to purchase supplies for more Project Linus blankets. Over the summer, students will make 200 blankets for other children in need.
To read heartwarming stories of blankets being created and shared, please visit the
Project Linus website.
Author: Kristin Lewis
Kristin Lewis is the Manager of Sustainable Development at Fairmount Minerals Ltd., headquartered in Chardon, Ohio. In this position, Kristin manages the communications and public relations relative to sustainable development, both internally and to Fairmount’s growing external stakeholder group. An alumnus of Ohio University, Kristin holds a Bachelors of Business Administration with a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS). She also received her Masters degree from Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management in Positive Organization Development. This internationally recognized program focuses on sustainable development, emotional intelligence, appreciative inquiry and transformational leadership. Kristin is also actively involved in the community serving on the Advisory Board for the Chardon Healing Fund as the communications liaison. She also serves as a member of the board of directors for America SCORES Cleveland and United Way Services of Geauga County. Additionally, Kristin serves on the executive committee for the Fairmount Foundation to determine fund allocation. Kristin resides in Twinsburg, Ohio with her husband, Colin and daughter, Isabel.