Handmade Kindness: Speedway Library Stitchers Earn Wayne Way Volunteer Award

Dr. Suggs and the Wayne Township School Board recently recognized the Speedway Library Stitchers as one of the inaugural recipients of The Wayne Way Volunteer Award, honoring their extraordinary generosity and commitment to supporting students at Chapelwood Elementary.

The Speedway Library Stitchers are a group of dedicated community members who have spent years creating handmade hats, scarves, and mittens for students. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted—colorful, child-sized, and made with care—to ensure students have the warmth and comfort they need during the colder months.

Over time, their efforts expanded beyond winter clothing. The group also began sewing and knitting handmade teddy bears, which are now used at Chapelwood as “comfort bears” for students experiencing difficult moments in their lives.

For children facing loss, illness, family crises, or other traumatic events, these bears provide something simple but powerful: a soft, tangible reminder that someone cares.

Michelle Stohler, Parent Liaison and School Social Worker at Chapelwood Elementary, nominated the group for the award and sees the impact of their work firsthand. “In moments when a child is experiencing something incredibly difficult—such as the loss of a loved one, a serious illness in the family, or losing their home—having something to hold onto can mean so much,” Stohler said. “These bears and handmade items remind our students that there are people in their community who care deeply about them, even if they’ve never met.”

The Speedway Library Stitchers represent a unique kind of volunteer effort—one built not around a single individual, but a collective group of women who come together to share their time, talents, and compassion for the children in their community.

Through their dedication, they have created something Chapelwood staff now count on each year: a quiet but powerful act of kindness that supports students when they need it most.

Their service exemplifies The Wayne Way—showing up for others, giving generously, and helping ensure every student feels supported and valued.

Wayne Township Schools created the Wayne Way Volunteer Award to celebrate the individuals and groups who go above and beyond for students and schools. Each month, the district recognizes community members whose service reflects our commitment to student belonging and community.

We Are Wayne. Great Schools. Great Community.