Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF)

Definition

The Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing handmade quilts to U.S. service members and veterans touched by war as a symbol of comfort and healing. Founded in 2003, the QOVF has a network of volunteers who create and distribute these quilts, aiming to honor and show appreciation for their service and sacrifices. The foundation’s primary goal is to foster a supportive community and promote healing through the love and artistry present in each quilt.

Key Takeaways

1. The Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing handmade quilts to veterans and active-duty military members who have been touched by war, as a token of appreciation and a reminder of the nation’s gratitude for their service.
2. Established in 2003, the foundation has awarded over 250,000 quilts to veterans across the United States, relying on the support of volunteer quilters, donors, and communities to continue their mission.
3. QOVF also creates a network of support and healing for veterans and military families, raising awareness about the challenges they face and emphasizing the importance of recognizing and honoring their sacrifices.

Importance

The Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) is an important non-profit organization that focuses on providing support, recognition, and comfort to United States military veterans and service members touched by war.

By awarding them with handmade patriotic quilts, the QOVF not only honors their sacrifices and dedication to the nation, but also promotes healing, acknowledges their experiences, and offers gratitude.

The efforts made by the organization and its members bring communities together and raise public awareness regarding the contributions, service, and challenges faced by veterans, ultimately aiming to provide them with a tangible reminder of the appreciation and support they rightfully deserve.

Explanation

The Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) is an organization with a heartfelt purpose: to offer comfort and healing to servicemen and women who have been physically or psychologically affected by their experiences on the battlefield. Founded in 2003 by Catherine Roberts, a Blue Star mom whose son was deployed to Iraq, the foundation’s main mission is to provide handmade, high-quality quilts to veterans in need of solace.

The quilts, known as “Quilts of Valor,” are individually sewn by volunteers all across the country who put their time, talents, and love into each piece, ensuring that each quilt is not only a beautiful work of art but also a symbol of appreciation and respect for the sacrifices made by military personnel. The Quilts of Valor Foundation has provided over 260,000 quilts to service members and veterans since its inception, proving that the organization has had a significant impact on the lives of many.

By offering warmth and comfort through the gift of quilts, QOVF aims to help veterans feel a sense of belonging, support, and recognition for their service. Additionally, the foundation facilitates community involvement, bolstering connections between civilians and military individuals.

By participating in QOVF, volunteers can engage in a compassionate act of service while gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for the brave men and women who have served their country.

Examples of Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF)

Example 1: In 2015, a group of quilters in Syracuse, New York, came together to create a Quilt of Valor for a local veteran who served in Vietnam. The group presented the quilt to the veteran in a public ceremony where the veteran’s family, friends, and local community members were invited to attend. The presentation of the quilt was a powerful moment, recognizing the veteran’s service and sacrifices while promoting healing and comfort through the handcrafted quilt.

Example 2: In 2019, the Quilts of Valor Foundation partnered with the Sewing Machine Project, a nonprofit that provides sewing machines and sewing education to those in need, to host a “National Sew Day” event in Madison, Wisconsin. During the event, volunteers sewed quilt blocks that would later be pieced together to create several Quilts of Valor. The finished quilts were then presented to local veterans in a special ceremony in their honor, thanking them for their service and providing a tangible symbol of gratitude, love, and respect.

Example 3: In 2020, a Texas-based quilting group called the Coastal Bend Quilts of Valor created and presented quilts to six World War II veterans during a special socially-distanced ceremony. The veterans, all in their 90s, were awarded these quilts as a show of appreciation for their service and commitment to the United States. The Quilts of Valor Foundation played a crucial role in organizing this event and demonstrating the impact that the handmade quilts can have in acknowledging and honoring the sacrifices of military veterans.

FAQ: Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF)

What is the Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF)?

The Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF) is a non-profit organization that aims to honor U.S. military veterans and active service members with comforting and healing handcrafted quilts. The foundation was established in 2003, and the quilts are tokens of appreciation for the sacrifice and service provided by individuals in the military.

Who is eligible to receive a Quilt of Valor?

Any U.S. military service member or veteran, who has been touched by war, is eligible to receive a quilt. This includes both combat and non-combat personnel and covers all branches of the U.S. military.

How can I request a quilt for a veteran or service member?

You can request a quilt for a veteran or service member by visiting the QOVF website and filling out the online request form. You will need to provide the nominee’s contact information, branch of service, and a brief statement about the veteran’s service.

How can I get involved with QOVF?

There are several ways you can get involved with QOVF, including making a quilt, sewing quilt blocks, making a monetary donation, or volunteering your time. You can find more information about how to get started on their website.

What are the guidelines for making a Quilt of Valor?

Quilts of Valor should be handcrafted, quilted, and made with high-quality materials. The size of the quilt should be appropriate to comfortably cover an adult, typically between 55″ x 65″ and 72″ x 90″. The design and pattern should be patriotic in appearance and gender-neutral. For more specific guidelines, visit the QOVF website.

Related VA Benefit Terms

• Service Member Support
• Handmade Quilts
• Veteran Honoring
• Volunteer Craftsmanship
• Healing and Comfort

Sources for More Information

• Quilts of Valor Foundation Official Website
• Military.com
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• The American Legion