Rainbow Scarf Project

I am blessed to be a member of the UCC community. It's something I'm proud of. Unfortunately, with 3 rowdy boys I don't attend service very often so it's important to me to find other ways to help out in order to feel I am an active member of the church community.

Spreading awareness is a big deal at UCC. Whether it's about bullying or equality for all. We believe in discriminating against no one... at all... for any reason.

The buzz at Peace UCC this summer is the Rainbow Scarf Project.

Heard of it? The goal is to spread awareness about violence and bullying, especially against LGBT teens.

What's the idea of the project? Scarves from many states are headed to Long Beach, CA. Throughout the summer people will wear these scarves. Others will wonder (and hopefully ask) why in the heck these crazy people are wearing scarves in the middle of summer in CA. If asked about it, the one wearing the scarf will explain the project's hopes and offer it to the inquiring mind. If the person accepts the scarf they are committing to take action.

When I heard about the project from my pastor, I knew this could be another opportunity for me to help out. I learned how to crochet a few years ago and a scarf would be no biggie to make.

I searched for just the right yarn. I wanted something that screamed, something vibrant and beautiful. I did find a beautiful yarn and although it didn't "scream" the way I hoped it would, the scarf turned out pretty great. Very soon, it will be on its way to CA along with the many other scarves our congregation made.

The scarves made by our congregation! Picture courtesy of Pastor Kayla

The scarf I made!

If you are in CA this summer and see someone wearing a rainbow scarf, please ask them about it and make a commitment to do your part to stop bullying. You know what... even if you aren't fortunate enough to go to CA or to come across someone wearing a scarf, do something, anything to spread a little love. Any effort, big or small, could mean the world to someone else.