This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Johnnette Armstrong

Groove Method is a delicious and fun group dance experience with simple steps and movement that nurtures the body, mind, heart and soul.
We invite you for one hour to move and connect with your body in a unique, authentic and cool way. Letting go of whatever is going on in your world, allowing yourself to be free and have fun moving your body.
Let’s get Grooving!


Body Groove will be offered Weekly on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30pm ET. 

Suggested Donation: $10/session or $25/month

In addition, our yoga classes are listed with the National MS Society and we welcome patients and caregivers of those with multiple sclerosis to our gentle yoga classes.

Our programs are also open to the community, and tailored to meet the needs of people affected by cancer. Classes and workshops are free or low cost on a pay-as-you-can basis, ensuring that our programs are accessible to everyone.


About Johnnette Armstrong

Certified Personal Trainer, Herbalist, Pink Pilates instructor, Health Coach and a Groove Method Provider. I call myself a Wellness Advocate. I have worked in the fitness field for over 15 years and I currently offer classes at Hope Connections in MD, work with seniors, and offer one-on-one personal training.

After my own struggle with body image and self-esteem, I went on a journey to find out the healthy way to lose weight and feel better about myself. I discovered that there is no right way to wellness. We are all beautiful and unique individuals and over the years I have learned three important things for teaching and working with people:

  1. How to create a space where people feel good about themselves.
  2. The importance of accurate knowledge to take care of our bodies.
  3. And how to consistently move our bodies so that we feel good. 

After 15 years of working in this industry, I have found that there is more than one way to move our bodies. The most important thing is to find one that you enjoy. I am super excited to bring Groove Method to you. It’s a fun and simple way to move our bodies. The cool thing is, anyone can do it! 

My passion is helping people to create a wellness toolbox that works for the whole person. Thank you in advance for allowing me to share my passion with you!

Let’s get Grooving!

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Johnnette Armstrong

Groove Method is a delicious and fun group dance experience with simple steps and movement that nurtures the body, mind, heart and soul.
We invite you for one hour to move and connect with your body in a unique, authentic and cool way. Letting go of whatever is going on in your world, allowing yourself to be free and have fun moving your body.
Let’s get Grooving!


Body Groove will be offered Weekly on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30pm ET. 

Suggested Donation: $10/session or $25/month

In addition, our yoga classes are listed with the National MS Society and we welcome patients and caregivers of those with multiple sclerosis to our gentle yoga classes.

Our programs are also open to the community, and tailored to meet the needs of people affected by cancer. Classes and workshops are free or low cost on a pay-as-you-can basis, ensuring that our programs are accessible to everyone.


About Johnnette Armstrong

Certified Personal Trainer, Herbalist, Pink Pilates instructor, Health Coach and a Groove Method Provider. I call myself a Wellness Advocate. I have worked in the fitness field for over 15 years and I currently offer classes at Hope Connections in MD, work with seniors, and offer one-on-one personal training.

After my own struggle with body image and self-esteem, I went on a journey to find out the healthy way to lose weight and feel better about myself. I discovered that there is no right way to wellness. We are all beautiful and unique individuals and over the years I have learned three important things for teaching and working with people:

  1. How to create a space where people feel good about themselves.
  2. The importance of accurate knowledge to take care of our bodies.
  3. And how to consistently move our bodies so that we feel good. 

After 15 years of working in this industry, I have found that there is more than one way to move our bodies. The most important thing is to find one that you enjoy. I am super excited to bring Groove Method to you. It’s a fun and simple way to move our bodies. The cool thing is, anyone can do it! 

My passion is helping people to create a wellness toolbox that works for the whole person. Thank you in advance for allowing me to share my passion with you!

Let’s get Grooving!

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Johnnette Armstrong

Groove Method is a delicious and fun group dance experience with simple steps and movement that nurtures the body, mind, heart and soul.
We invite you for one hour to move and connect with your body in a unique, authentic and cool way. Letting go of whatever is going on in your world, allowing yourself to be free and have fun moving your body.
Let’s get Grooving!


Body Groove will be offered Weekly on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30pm ET. 

Suggested Donation: $10/session or $25/month

In addition, our yoga classes are listed with the National MS Society and we welcome patients and caregivers of those with multiple sclerosis to our gentle yoga classes.

Our programs are also open to the community, and tailored to meet the needs of people affected by cancer. Classes and workshops are free or low cost on a pay-as-you-can basis, ensuring that our programs are accessible to everyone.


About Johnnette Armstrong

Certified Personal Trainer, Herbalist, Pink Pilates instructor, Health Coach and a Groove Method Provider. I call myself a Wellness Advocate. I have worked in the fitness field for over 15 years and I currently offer classes at Hope Connections in MD, work with seniors, and offer one-on-one personal training.

After my own struggle with body image and self-esteem, I went on a journey to find out the healthy way to lose weight and feel better about myself. I discovered that there is no right way to wellness. We are all beautiful and unique individuals and over the years I have learned three important things for teaching and working with people:

  1. How to create a space where people feel good about themselves.
  2. The importance of accurate knowledge to take care of our bodies.
  3. And how to consistently move our bodies so that we feel good. 

After 15 years of working in this industry, I have found that there is more than one way to move our bodies. The most important thing is to find one that you enjoy. I am super excited to bring Groove Method to you. It’s a fun and simple way to move our bodies. The cool thing is, anyone can do it! 

My passion is helping people to create a wellness toolbox that works for the whole person. Thank you in advance for allowing me to share my passion with you!

Let’s get Grooving!

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Johnnette Armstrong

Groove Method is a delicious and fun group dance experience with simple steps and movement that nurtures the body, mind, heart and soul.
We invite you for one hour to move and connect with your body in a unique, authentic and cool way. Letting go of whatever is going on in your world, allowing yourself to be free and have fun moving your body.
Let’s get Grooving!


Body Groove will be offered Weekly on Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30pm ET. 

Suggested Donation: $10/session or $25/month

In addition, our yoga classes are listed with the National MS Society and we welcome patients and caregivers of those with multiple sclerosis to our gentle yoga classes.

Our programs are also open to the community, and tailored to meet the needs of people affected by cancer. Classes and workshops are free or low cost on a pay-as-you-can basis, ensuring that our programs are accessible to everyone.


About Johnnette Armstrong

Certified Personal Trainer, Herbalist, Pink Pilates instructor, Health Coach and a Groove Method Provider. I call myself a Wellness Advocate. I have worked in the fitness field for over 15 years and I currently offer classes at Hope Connections in MD, work with seniors, and offer one-on-one personal training.

After my own struggle with body image and self-esteem, I went on a journey to find out the healthy way to lose weight and feel better about myself. I discovered that there is no right way to wellness. We are all beautiful and unique individuals and over the years I have learned three important things for teaching and working with people:

  1. How to create a space where people feel good about themselves.
  2. The importance of accurate knowledge to take care of our bodies.
  3. And how to consistently move our bodies so that we feel good. 

After 15 years of working in this industry, I have found that there is more than one way to move our bodies. The most important thing is to find one that you enjoy. I am super excited to bring Groove Method to you. It’s a fun and simple way to move our bodies. The cool thing is, anyone can do it! 

My passion is helping people to create a wellness toolbox that works for the whole person. Thank you in advance for allowing me to share my passion with you!

Let’s get Grooving!

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Smith Center Movement Facilitators & 2Unstoppable

Gentle Yoga in the Gallery

Join us and get to know our incredible partner 2Unstoppable and Smith Center’s dedicated team of movement/exercise program facilitators.

 

Our team of experts will share how to cope with low motivation, how to increase your stamina and strength (especially during and after your cancer treatment) and how to take the next step and explore trying something new in a safe, comfortable and non-competitive environment. Learn how to implement a regular exercise program – one that meets you and your body where it is today.


Smith Center Recurring Movement Programs: 

  • Qigong
    • Bi-Monthly on Mondays, 7-8pm with Kevin
  • Chair Yoga
    • Weekly on Tuesdays, 12-1pm with Beth
  • Gentle PM Yoga
    • Weekly on Tuesdays, 6-7:15pm with Yael
  • Body Groove
    • Weekly on Wednesdays, 12:30-1:30pm with Johnnette
  • Gentle AM Yoga
    • Weekly on Thursdays, 10:15-11:30am with Kiersten

2Unstoppable Recurring Movement Programs: 

  • Yoga4Cancer
    • Monthly on Saturdays, 1:30-3pm
  • Virtual Meet-Up
    • Monthly on Sundays, 7-8pm
  • Walk-n-Talk
    • Monthly on Weekends
  • And More!
    • E.G. Squat Challenge, Zumba Gold, Upper Body Challenge

About 2Unstoppable

2Unstoppable is a non-profit organization founded by two women with a personal history of Breast Cancer and who realized the many benefits of staying active during and after treatment.  We now want to help other women on their cancer journeys experience a better quality of life and improved outcomes through exercise.

About Beth Lawrence, RYT500

Beth Lawrence Gentle Yoga Chair Yoga Instructor Smith Center

Beth discovered yoga in early 2002 as a mother of six month old twins. She was looking to get back into shape after their birth. In yoga, she found far more than she anticipated- an age old practice designed to help people relieve stress- both mental and physical. After a few years of regular practice, she knew she wanted to share her positive experiences with others. She has been leading yoga classes in the DC area since 2007 after completing her 200 hour yoga teacher training at Nth Degree Yoga with Martha Rosen. In 2011, she went back to earn her RYT500. Her personal practice is inspired by Integral Yoga and Sivananda Yoga, both of which incorporate body and mind into the practice.

About Ilana Gamerman, RN, MSN

I am an avid exerciser for over 20 years.  Exercise helps me focus, clears my thoughts, and basically makes me feel good.  I guess that is why I am so committed to exercise and rely on it so much.  So, when diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, it is no surprise that I turned to exercise to help me get through the difficult diagnosis phase all the way to post treatment.  Whether it was a walk or an easy class at the gym, moving made me feel better and more importantly gave me a sense of control. I know how difficult it is to summon the energy to “move” during this time and having supportive friends helped so much.  A better quality of life and outcomes through exercise is what I hope to help every person faced with a cancer diagnosis achieve.

Ilana Gamerman is a Registered Nurse with a Masters degree in Nursing Informatics.  Her combined passion for helping people and for exercise is what drives her motivation to help every woman diagnosed with cancer become unstoppable. Ilana’s co-founding of 2Unstoppable is driven by her dedication to fitness, healthcare and helping others. She lives in Vienna, VA with her husband and has three sons.  

About Johnnette Armstrong

Certified Personal Trainer, Herbalist, Pink Pilates instructor, Health Coach and a Groove Method Provider. I call myself a Wellness Advocate. I have worked in the fitness field for over 15 years and I currently offer classes at Hope Connections in MD, work with seniors, and offer one-on-one personal training.

After my own struggle with body image and self-esteem, I went on a journey to find out the healthy way to lose weight and feel better about myself. I discovered that there is no right way to wellness. We are all beautiful and unique individuals and over the years I have learned three important things for teaching and working with people:

  1. How to create a space where people feel good about themselves.
  2. The importance of accurate knowledge to take care of our bodies.
  3. And how to consistently move our bodies so that we feel good. 

After 15 years of working in this industry, I have found that there is more than one way to move our bodies. The most important thing is to find one that you enjoy. I am super excited to bring Groove Method to you. It’s a fun and simple way to move our bodies. The cool thing is, anyone can do it! 

My passion is helping people to create a wellness toolbox that works for the whole person. Thank you in advance for allowing me to share my passion with you!

About Kevin Mutschler, L.Ac., NCCAOM

Kevin Mutschler

Kevin is a board-certified acupuncturist (NCCAOM) and Qigong educator with over twenty-five years experience in healing arts practice, research and education, including work in medical anthropology, somatic therapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Kevin has special interests in working with patients living with chronic illness, migraine, MS and cancer. He is a Smith Center fellow in Integrative Cancer Care Navigation and is a member of the Society for Integrative Oncology.

About Kiersten Gallagher, RYT200

Kiersten Gallagher, RYT 200 and Certified Herbalist has studied yoga for over 25 years. Over the last decade, Kiersten has developed yoga programs and has provided a place for healing in the cancer community, in underprivileged neighborhoods, for special needs children, for teens and adults with drug addiction and for those struggling with body image. Kiersten invites you on a journey of healing to help guide you to a place where yoga will make a real difference in your life.  Kiersten’s goal for you is that you feel better when you leave class- mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually, than you may have felt when you stepped through the door to begin your practice.

About Michelle Stravitz

When I was diagnosed in June 2015 with Triple Negative Breast Cancer, fitness, in its various forms, had been in and out of my life since my 20’s. However, my oncologist was clear with me – move as much as you can throughout treatment to combat fatigue and anxiety. I took her words to heart, and I made fitness a part of my complementary treatment plan. Some days that meant walking with a friend or the dog, and on other days I found a gentle yoga class or an oncology exercise session. The benefits were definitive and numerous. Now that I am post-treatment, I recognize the extraordinary importance and impact of regular exercise for cancer patients and survivors. As a breast cancer survivor, I have made fitness a priority in my life, and I want to help every patient and survivor to do the same. Based on my own experience, and after reviewing a lot of research, I know that having someone to walk with, or just to encourage us to get moving, makes all the difference – and that’s why I am so committed to the mission of 2Unstoppable. Join our program and community and feel better!

Michelle Stravitz is a PCI-Certified Parent Coach, holds an MS from The GWU, and BS Engineering and BS Economics degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. Founding 2Unstoppable brings together a wealth of experience and passion advising and serving on the boards of various non-profit organizations and running a small management consulting firm. Michelle is the CFO of Spectrum Management Consulting and is also a professional event coordinator. She has served as a peer supporter for women of all ages undergoing treatment for breast cancer, both informally and through organizations such as Sharsheret and Life With Cancer. She lives in Fairfax VA with her husband, four children, and one dog.

About Yael Flusberg, C-IAYT, E-RYT500, RM/T, MS

Yael Flusberg Gentle Yoga Instructor Smith Center

Yael Flusberg first came to yoga hoping she could get rid of stuff, namely the ways life’s stresses and traumas had become painfully embodied. Fifteen years and thousands of layers of release later, yoga continues to teach her how to make strategic, creative, and life-nourishing choices. Trained as an integrative yoga therapist, Yael’s classes blend active with receptive states of being, and are both insightful and lighthearted. Off the mat, she is a coach, writer and energy therapist. Since 2005, Yael has taught yoga classes at area hospitals, libraries, workplaces, schools, and yoga studios. As an integrative yoga therapist (E-RYT500) she facilitates both group and individual yoga therapy sessions, working with people dealing with a variety of conditions including cancer, digestive disorders, diabetes, eating disorders, fibromyalgia, hypertension, mental health challenges (including depression, anxiety, grief and trauma), rheumatoid arthritis, scoliosis, and sports injuries. She currently teaches a weekly therapeutic class for people living with cancer and their caregivers on GW’s campus. More info: www.yaelflusberg.com

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Christina Tian, DACM, CMD, MAOM, L.Ac., Dilp.O.M

Acupressure is an easy-to-use home therapy based on the traditional Chinese medicine practice of acupuncture. When performing acupressure, you put pressure on specific places on your body for different conditions and symptoms. Stimulating these points can help alleviate many common side effects of chemotherapy and cancer. These points may also be stimulated to increase blood circulation and decrease inflammation, muscle tension and pain. Acupressure may be performed at home using your fingers or other massage tools. Please join us to learn how to relieve common symptoms such as nausea, pain, headache, anxiety, insomnia and more.


About Christina Tian, DACM, CMD, MAOM, L.Ac., Dilp.O.M

Dr. Christina Tian is a second generation doctor of Chinese medicine specializing in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. She grew up watching her father, a physician and Chinese medical doctor, care for his patients as if they were his own family. Her unofficial education in Chinese medicine started with orthopedics and pain management at age eight.

She has advanced oncology training and clinical experience which she shares with patients and medical professionals through national and international speaking engagements. Dr. Tian has over ten years of clinical experience in treating olympic and professional athletes. Her clinical interest spans adolescent, adult and geriatric medicine. She employs a range of acupuncture techniques including gentle acupuncture methods, which all patients young and old appreciate.

Dr. Tian was recruited by Sibley Memorial Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine, as Chief Acupuncturist to pioneer acupuncture services in 2015.  During her five year tenure, she provided Traditional Chinese Medicine services such as acupuncture to oncology patients. In 2018, Dr. Tian expanded acupuncture services into the newly established Sibley Integrative Medicine department.  She treated patients for a variety of complex and challenging conditions associated with women’s health, palliative care, pain management, and neurological disorders. 

In 2020, she founded Bethesda Acupuncture & Wellness Medicine. Here, she shares her integrative knowledge and experience with the community she was raised in. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was able to advance her knowledge and clinical experience of treating infectious diseases with Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

As an avid meditator, gardener and cook, Dr. Tian is passionate about self-care and regularly teaches patients the benefits of meditation and the medicinal properties of foods and spices. She travels to further develop her understanding of various medical systems. She works and volunteers for various acupuncture societies in both the United States and China and participates in international Chinese Medicine conferences to ensure she bridges cutting edge findings with the ancient wisdom of this medical system.  Enjoying her close work with oncology patients, Dr. Tian remains a volunteer for several oncology organizations. 

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Kathleen O’Toole

There’s a reason that the ancient Celts celebrated Bealtaine (Beltane: May 1, or Mayday) which falls halfway between the Spring Equinox and Summer Solstice. For us in the northern hemisphere, early May ushers in our weeks of greatest light. Doors, windows, byres and livestock would be decorated with yellow May flowers. In parts of Ireland, people would make a May Bush: a thorn bush or branch decorated with flowers, ribbons, bright shells and rushlights. Elsewhere in Europe: Maypoles and music brought people together.

 

In this 90-minute session, we’ll take time to notice and record the wonders of nature and light around us. Kathleen O’Toole, Poet Laureate of Takoma Park, MD will share some of her own and others’ “poems of attention” and invite participants to respond – words, short poems, sketches – and explore some writing practices to help us enter this season with greater attention, and intention. No previous poetry writing experience required, just an openness to playing with words. Bring an open heart, and maybe a photo or sketch of something you’ve noticed this spring that gave you joy.

Suggested Donation: $10


About Kathleen O’Toole

Takoma Park Poet Laureate Kathleen O’Toole is the author of 4 books of poetry (find her at https://kathleenotoolepoetry.com). She has taught writing at Johns Hopkins University and the Maryland Institute College of Art. As evident in her longer work, she often seeks inspiration and consolation in nature. For more than thirty years she has been writing haiku as a spiritual practice of attention, and to deepen her experience of the natural world.

This program is being offered virtually through Zoom. In order to participate and receive the Zoom link, you must register here or by emailing carla@smithcenter.org

with Kara Elam

Lotus

The journey from the decision to start a family to holding your little one/s in your arms is not always straightforward and could take much longer than anticipated. This healing circle is meant to provide support, fellowship, and knowledge exchange while you are traversing this road to parenthood in whatever form it may take for you to create your desired family.


What is a Healing Circle?

Healing Circles bring together small numbers of people impacted by a condition or circumstance to share experiences and harvest collective wisdom. Healing Circles is a peer-led process by which people support each other through deep listening and shared learning. When working at its best, this collaborative conversation model leads to authentic and deep connectivity and can create wisdom and healing for participants.

Fertility Journey Healing Circle will be hosted Monthly on Mondays from 6:30-7:30pm.
Upcoming Dates:
  • May 10
  • June 14

About Kara Elam

Kara Elam

Kara Elam, PhD, MPH, MS, As a scientist and avid adventurer I approached starting a family and conceiving our first as I did with everything else: research, data analysis, and meticulous planning. Unfortunately, this approach was not successful and the journey to our desired family became much longer than anticipated. I have embraced this unforeseen adventure in fertility for the lessons and knowledge it has brought into our life. I look forward to sharing this knowledge as well as creating a space for fellowship and support with all of you joining this healing circle. Love, trust, and baby dust.

Please email instruction@knitwell.org to schedule an Individual Knitting Instruction appointment.

with Project Knitwell

Knitwell in the Cloud

During these stressful times, we need the wellness benefits of knitting now more than ever.

Project Knitwill invites you to join Knitwell in the Cloud, a new program offering private, one-on-one knitting lessons via Zoom. It’s a safe, effective way to knit and learn.

Who is this for?  Beginner knitters and those who already know how to knit but need help with a project.

How long are the sessions? 45-60 minutes. You will have up to 4 lessons with your instructor.

What equipment do I need to participate? A smartphone or tablet (iPad, etc.)  and the free Zoom app downloaded on the device you will use.

Do I need to get my own supplies?  No — Project Knitwell will provide you with what you need.


Knitwell in the Cloud is an ongoing program with rolling registration. Please email instruction@knitwell.org or call 703-249-9112 and mention that you heard about the program through Smith Center.

If you’re looking to meet up with other knitters, consider connecting with K2tog. K2tog events are not formal lessons, but rather are casual get-togethers where everyone brings their knitting projects and chats about different knitting-related topics. Anyone can register by emailing k2together@knitwell.org, even if they have never participated in a previous PK program.


About Project Knitwell

Project Knitwell

Project Knitwell offers knitting as a tool to promote wellness and help people cope with stressful situations at more than a dozen hospital and community settings.

All of Project Knitwell’s programming is provided by volunteers, and services and supplies are provided free of charge to the people we serve.


About the Project Knitwell Volunteers

About Ilene Gast

Ilene Gast

I have been knitting since childhood, learning when I received a knitting kit as a gift. Knitting allows me to combine color and texture, transforming long strings of yarn into aesthetically pleasing, functional items. I knit all manner of objects, but my favorites are wild colored socks and unusually shaped shawls.

Although finishing a knitted object is satisfying, it is secondary to the process of knitting. The rhythm of knitting is relaxing; it never fails to relieve stress. At the end of graduate school, I not only completed a degree, but also created a series of “dissertation sweaters.” Knitting also lets me take leave of myself. When I am knitting for someone else, which is often, I can virtually spend time with that person. Or, if I use yarn acquired in a special place, I am transported back in time and space. Add portability to these benefits—I can take it with me!

However, most of all, I enjoy sharing the art and craft of knitting with others. I am fortunate to have discovered Project Knitwell, an organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of knitting to people in stressful situations. I am doubly grateful to be part of the Schar ISC Artist in Residence program.

Please email instruction@knitwell.org to schedule an Individual Knitting Instruction appointment.

with Project Knitwell

Knitwell in the Cloud

During these stressful times, we need the wellness benefits of knitting now more than ever.

Project Knitwill invites you to join Knitwell in the Cloud, a new program offering private, one-on-one knitting lessons via Zoom. It’s a safe, effective way to knit and learn.

Who is this for?  Beginner knitters and those who already know how to knit but need help with a project.

How long are the sessions? 45-60 minutes. You will have up to 4 lessons with your instructor.

What equipment do I need to participate? A smartphone or tablet (iPad, etc.)  and the free Zoom app downloaded on the device you will use.

Do I need to get my own supplies?  No — Project Knitwell will provide you with what you need.


Knitwell in the Cloud is an ongoing program with rolling registration. Please email instruction@knitwell.org or call 703-249-9112 and mention that you heard about the program through Smith Center.

If you’re looking to meet up with other knitters, consider connecting with K2tog. K2tog events are not formal lessons, but rather are casual get-togethers where everyone brings their knitting projects and chats about different knitting-related topics. Anyone can register by emailing k2together@knitwell.org, even if they have never participated in a previous PK program.


About Project Knitwell

Project Knitwell

Project Knitwell offers knitting as a tool to promote wellness and help people cope with stressful situations at more than a dozen hospital and community settings.

All of Project Knitwell’s programming is provided by volunteers, and services and supplies are provided free of charge to the people we serve.


About the Project Knitwell Volunteers

About Ilene Gast

Ilene Gast

I have been knitting since childhood, learning when I received a knitting kit as a gift. Knitting allows me to combine color and texture, transforming long strings of yarn into aesthetically pleasing, functional items. I knit all manner of objects, but my favorites are wild colored socks and unusually shaped shawls.

Although finishing a knitted object is satisfying, it is secondary to the process of knitting. The rhythm of knitting is relaxing; it never fails to relieve stress. At the end of graduate school, I not only completed a degree, but also created a series of “dissertation sweaters.” Knitting also lets me take leave of myself. When I am knitting for someone else, which is often, I can virtually spend time with that person. Or, if I use yarn acquired in a special place, I am transported back in time and space. Add portability to these benefits—I can take it with me!

However, most of all, I enjoy sharing the art and craft of knitting with others. I am fortunate to have discovered Project Knitwell, an organization dedicated to bringing the benefits of knitting to people in stressful situations. I am doubly grateful to be part of the Schar ISC Artist in Residence program.