A weekly gathering in the Nook turns yarn, conversation, and creativity into gifts for local organizations.

On Wednesday afternoons at RiverWoods Manchester, a group called the Threads of Friendship gathers by the cozy hearth of the Nook to enjoy conversation, laughter, and the satisfaction of creating something meaningful.

Formerly called the Knitters & Crocheters Circle, the resident-run group recently rebranded to better reflect its welcoming, all-inclusive spirit. Under the leadership of its chair, Peggy, the group expanded to include knitters, crocheters, weavers and even cross-stitchers.  Any resident of RiverWoods Manchester is welcome to join, regardless of skill level. Residents who have never crafted and want to learn something new are welcome, too. Some people simply come to sit, watch, and enjoy the company.

The all-inclusive nature of the group extends even further. One member, Matt, is the only male participant at this time and attends the group regularly. He has been knitting for 30 years and shares that he finds knitting very relaxing and often creates items for his grandchildren.

Threads of Friendship members create personal items, but they also craft for charitable projects using donated materials. They keep track of the time they spend on projects, which they share with volunteer services staff at recipient organizations. The highest total was recorded in June 2023, when members logged more than 1,000 hours of knitting and crocheting time.

The hats, mittens, gloves, lap throws, afghans, blankets, and shawls they make are provided to patients in Catholic Medical Center’s (CMC) Oncology Department, Lazarus House, and the Boys & Girls Club. The group’s signature creation is miniature octopuses, which are donated to babies at risk in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at CMC. Not only can they can help lower a baby’s heart rate, the octopuses’ “tentacles” give the babies something to hold on to, preventing them from pulling on medical tubing.

Through shared interests and a shared commitment to giving back, the RiverWoods Manchester residents who are members of Threads of Friendship are making a meaningful difference across the Greater Manchester area.

To learn more about life at RiverWoods Manchester—including resident-led clubs, events, and opportunities to connect—explore our community news and stories.