Knitting for Those in Need is a nonprofit charitable organization that uses loom knitting, needle knitting and crochet to create items for those in need. 

The group started in 2011 to teach knitting skills and serve the community. Any Kent State student can join the organization, regardless of their knitting or crocheting experience level. 

The volunteers make hats, kitchen items, lap blankets and other items. All items made within the group are donated to the local Kent community. 

Group advisor Louise Ditchey said she has three main accomplishments for the group.

“I like to be able to get people together,” she said, “get students to put their phones down…to talk amongst each other and let students realize how good some people have it and how some people have it worse — which helps build empathy in students.” 

The organization wants to make the community warmer and safer, Ditchey said. It also wants to leave a significant impact on the community. 

Senior school health education major Bridget Elliot, a junior officer of the organization, said she joined the group because she was interested in volunteering. She said she loves to help other people, and through the group, she was able to support herself too. 

“Personally, I used to fidget with my fingers a lot,” she said. “After joining the organization, I have been able to channel that fidgeting into making stuff for the people who really need it, which is a really good feeling.” 

The group meets weekly on Fridays from 3-5 p.m. on the fourth floor of the library.

If interested in joining the group or using their services, visit their website for more information. 

“It’s a great organization for people to join if they just want to help people or try to destress after a long week of school,” Elliot said. “It’s never too late to join.”

Chloe Harich is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].