The Warm Hats for Cool Heads group is part of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Nevada, Reno. The group recently donated 463 hand-crafted items to local organizations. These items include hats, scarves, baby blankets, pet blankets, washcloths, and shawls. The donations support groups such as Volunteers of America, the Women and Children’s Center of the Sierra, SPCA of Northern Nevada, and Renown’s Chemotherapy Infusion Services and newborn nursery.
The group was founded in fall 2019 by Carol Purroy and Leslie Davis. It started with about 30 members. Carol Purroy began the group after making 140 hats for the homeless and seeing a larger need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the group continued to meet online and deliver items.
Currently, 17 members meet twice a month. Others contribute by working independently and donating their work. OLLI member Gila DeKay invites anyone interested in knitting or crocheting to join. Gay Warner, another member, notes the ongoing need in the community and the flexible participation options…