Bluffton Scrap Artist Quilters detail impact of quilts for veterans

By Paula Scott

For sixteen years, Bluffton American Legion Post 382 has hosted a fun charitable golf outing with a serious purpose. The event raises funds for local nonprofits and charitable organizations, including those that support area veterans.

The June 10 Fred Arnold Memorial Charitable Golf Outing was supported by local sponsors Bluffton Paving and Bluffton Stone, Gerken Materials, Lewis Family McDonald’s and Stratton Auto Group. Teams competed for the longest drive, straightest drive, par 3 and tee-shot wagers. Participants also enjoyed a prime rib dinner and took home door prizes.

In August, vice-commander and golf outing chairperson Kurt Emans announced the recipients of 2023 donations by the Bluffton post. He noted that to date, over $73,000 has gone to support area organizations. This year, recipients are:

• American Legion Operation Comfort Warriors
• Bluffton Boy Scout Troop 256 
• Bluffton Community Assistance Program
• Bluffton Diamond Sports
• Bluffton Family Recreation Center
• Bluffton Girl Scouts 
• Bluffton Scrap Artist Quilts for Veterans
• Challenged Champions Equestrian Center
• Flag City Honor Flight (Findlay, Ohio)
• Veterans Food Pantry of NW Ohio

Pat Rodabaugh of the Bluffton Scrap Artist Quilters was present for the Legion’s announcement. She explained that the Scrap Artist Quilters seek to provide

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every area veteran with a quilt sewn by the group. They have visited all area nursing homes and the Dayton VA hospital to deliver quilts to veterans. The funds provided by the Legion help cover materials and professional finishing costs. Some 500 quilts have been distributed by the group in the last five years.

The quilters meet at the Bluffton Senior Center on the first Monday evening of each month, at the same time that Legion members meet at the Sportsmen’s Club on Spring St. The group has occasional sewing retreats and hosts demonstrations. The group welcomes anyone interested in quilting.

Legion members look at the community to research charities and nonprofits. Some of the longest relationships are with the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Bluffton Family Recreation and Bluffton Scrap Artist quilters.

Bluffton American Legion Post 382

PO Box 107, Bluffton OH, 45817

www.blufftonamericanlegion.org