Kim's Knitters

Since 2000, Kim's Knitters meet every Monday.  There is a volunteer to help in each of the morning/afternoon sessions.  Kim and her volunteers are great at revitalizing an old skill and help the residents to put their knitting skill to good use.  They have made dozens of baby blankets for sailors that become dad while deployed.  Thank you notes are received and sometimes baby photos.  This particular ship we got a photo of the 'new dads' lined up to be first off the ship.  It is very special to see that they are carrying the baby blankets made just for the occasion.  The Knitting Club has also made special hats and scarves for homeless veterans and over 100 shawls for Dominican elderly that live in three different homes befriended by Bishop Hills.

Diane & the Bishop Hills' Chimers

Since 2001, Diane started at Bishop Hills as a caregiver using her LPN skills.  When she retired she was willing to start the Bishop Hills' Chimers.  Rockford teacher, Mrs. Ibarra brought her students to demonstrate their chiming skill for the residents.  A Chime is light weight and easy to use, the music is color coded in chords.  Mrs. Ibarra and Diane went to work to start teaching the residents the beautiful sound of the chimes.  The Chimers have performed at a variety of venues but their favorite is "jammin'" with the students of Crestwood Elementary.

Read 'n Stack

In the summer 2006, Bishop Hills worked with reading specialist, Mrs. Munger, to develop a way for our residents to encourage the older elementary student with reading skills.  The residents listen to readers for 45 mins. and then'Speed Stacks' is the closing activity for everyone to enjoy.  The Meadowridge Elementary students have now developed a Stacking Club.  The stackers helped demonstrate the positives of stacking at the Rockford Expo in Bishop Hills' booth.