Bozeman's HRDC Handcrafters program seeks new volunteers

BOZEMAN, Mont. – The HRDC Handcrafters program in Bozeman is looking for new volunteers to join their group of dedicated women who are giving back to the community through their crafting skills. 

Sandy Regnerus, a volunteer with the Handcrafters, has worked with the group for over fifteen years, having joined after retiring.  

"I knew that they did handcrafting with quilting and crocheting and embroidering, and I did all three. So, I thought, 'Well, this is a way to stay busy and meet new people,'" Regnerus said. 

Regnerus began volunteering after her retirement and focuses primarily on quilting and embroidery. The Handcrafters program is designed for makers aged 55 and over and meets every Tuesday at the Bozeman Senior Center. Participants engage in various projects including knitting, crocheting, quilting and embroidery. They make quilts, tea towels, hats, blankets and other textile arts. 

"I like meeting with the women every week. I've made several friends here over the years, and I mean, they're all interesting people," Regnerus said. 

Regnerus also shared her experience volunteering with Quilts of Valor, where she honed her crafting skills. 

"My latest thing is to make table runners that are double sided so you can have, like, a patriotic one, and then you can flip it over and then your fall one is right there," she said. 

The group utilizes donated materials, and the proceeds from selling their crafts go back to an HRDC program of their choosing. Their products are available at local farmers' markets and other events throughout the year, and also the senior center. 

Once a month, they also take knitted baby hats to Bozeman Deaconess Regional Medical Center. 

"So, if you have a newborn baby, nine times out of ten they leave you with a hat that's made with love from these Handcrafters," said Debi Casagranda, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program coordinator for the HRDC. 

As the RSVP coordinator, Debi oversees the Handcrafters program. 

"It's really heartwarming to watch what they do and how they, they embrace each person in our group. And if somebody hasn't been there for a couple weeks, they worry. It's just a family unit that I enjoy every Tuesday with them and what they can do," Casagranda said. 

The Handcrafters program has been around for over 50 years, but in recent years their membership has started to decrease. They are looking for more people who share their crafting skills or are looking to learn. 

One group member explained they have “time, talent and treasure.” Most of the group is retired, so they have time to work on these projects. They have the practice and talent to do them, and their knowledge and experience is a treasure they can pass along. 

"We would love to teach you. And we've been at it for most of our lives. And so, we can teach you the finer points and all the tricks that make it easier," Regnerus said. 

For those interested in volunteering, you can reach out to Casagranda at dcasagranda@thehrdc.org.