Patsi feels loved when she looks at hers while Diana’s keeps her warm and comfortable at night. The vibrant colors of Don’s brighten his room. These reactions are from seniors — residents of Mary Marshall Assisted Living in Arlington — to quilts gifted to them on Valentine’s Day. The quilts were handmade by the charitable artisans of McLean Quilters Unlimited. 

In addition to Mary Marshall Assisted Living, members of McLean Quilters Unlimited have gifted their work to organizations such the Assistance League of Northern, Virginia. 

 

“The quilts … truly touched my heart and the hearts of the residents,” said Divina Alston, Mary Marshall Executive Director. “To think of the craftsmanship and hours it took to complete each quilt makes them extra special. Knowing the love and care that was put into them, brought out a lot of smiles. The residents were thrilled to go in their private rooms to place their quilts on their beds or chairs to brighten their living space.”

McLean Quilter Unlimited, one of the 11 chapters of Quilters Unlimited of Northern Virginia (QU), donated a total of 60 handmade quilts to the residents of Mary Marshall. This is just one of the philanthropic projects that members undertake each year. They’ve given quilts to organizations such as the Fairfax Ronald McDonald House, US Army for Afghan Refugees, Fair Oaks Hospital’s Teddy Bear Project, Fairfax County Animal Shelter and Assistance League of Northern, Virginia. 

"We seek out worthy causes through word of mouth in the community. They’re often associated with other activities our members support, like support for refugees through a church or synagogue,” said Alcy Frelick, president of McLean Quilters Unlimited. Mary Marshall House came to our attention through one of our members.”

In addition to offering support to nonprofit organizations, their mission is to preserve the tradition, culture and history of quilting. The McLean guild has 80 members and is open to anyone regardless of their experience or skill level. QU's chapters have a total of more than 1,000 members.  

“As members, we gain friendship, encouragement, appreciation for our work, creative inspiration and quilting techniques,” said Frelick.