"Sew Much Fun" at Brandenburg

By Larry Clem | 01/22/2018
Brandenburg Middle School students pose with their "Sew Much Fun" creations

Students at the Classical Center at Brandenburg Middle School who participate in the campus club "Sew Much Love" have the opportunity to craft a variety of items including dresses, shorts and teddy bears. They work hard alongside club founder and math teacher Michele Querry to produce unique creations they can be proud of.

However, unlike most arts and crafts clubs, the finished products don't go home with students. Instead, the creations are sent around the world for less fortunate children to use and enjoy. For Brandenburg students, their takeaway is compassion and a new outlook towards the world around them. 

Children from Mexico show off their creations from the "Sew Much Love" club.

Children from Mexico show off their teddy bears created by the "Sew Much Fun" club. 

Broadening horizons

African children show off their dresses created by "Sew Much Fun" club.

The global outreach aspect of "Sew Much Love" provides students with a broadened world outlook, as well as the tools to become creative, compassionate members of society. "Students love to see their finished products and they love it when we receive pictures back of children with the club members creations," Michele told the foundation in an interview. "They are learning to do small things to make a difference in the world, all while expecting nothing in return." 

In addition to making an impact on students, the program has offered more opportunities for Michele to connect with students outside of the academic realm. The program has also been making waves outside the district, as Michele has recently learned that at least two other schools outside of GISD have implemented similar programs after learning about "Sew Much Fun."

"The club members are excited to be there each week and it energizes me to see them so engaged at school!" - Michele Querry, founder of "Sew Much Love"

Sew much support

Along with all the benefits that this club provides to students and children across the globe, there comes a cost in the form of supplies and shipping. "Funding is always our biggest challenge," Michele told the foundation. "The club is offered at no cost to the students and we rely on donations or grants to purchase supplies."

The Garland Education Foundation is proud to support such an innovative program that supports creativity and compassion. For more information about how GEF Grants can fuel programs like "Sew Much Love," see our Grants page.  

If you or your organization is interested in supporting programs like this, see our Giving Opportunities page. 

"Students love to see their finished products and they love it when we receive pictures back of children with the club members creations. They are learning to do small things to make a difference in the world, all while expecting nothing in return." - Michele Querry, founder of "Sew Much Love"