In Herrin Junior High’s Crochet Club, yarn becomes a tool for connection, creativity, and service. Led by math teacher Linda Montgomery and assisted by paraprofessional, Karen Matuszczak the club offers students a place to learn, create, and give back. With nearly 50 students participating, this vibrant group unites young people of all interests and abilities. For eighth grader Hudson Ray, this club has been a defining experience. “We get together, learn, and create things that actually help others,” Hudson says, capturing the essence of a club that’s as much about community as it is about crochet.

The Crochet Club meets twice a week after school, split into two groups due to its size. New members learn the basics, while returning members, like Hudson, work on more advanced projects. “It’s a welcoming space,” says Linda, noting that students of all backgrounds and skill levels find a home here.

Hudson, who joined on a whim after seeing a family friend’s crochet project, quickly found himself captivated by the craft. “I thought I’d try it, and if I didn’t like it, I’d move on,” he recalls. But he stayed, and this year, he’s playing a leadership role, guiding younger members and helping with the club’s projects.

As supplies have become more expensive, Mrs. Montgomery has found creative ways to keep the club funded. “We’ve had some wonderful donations from parents, teachers, and friends,” she says, noting that she often puts out a call on social media for yarn and hooks. In the past, ESSER funds covered some of the cost of supplies. This year, Mrs. Montgomery is working with Herrin’s development director to secure funding.  She hopes to be able to share good news with the club soon. Having help to cover the cost of supplies, makes it easier to provide every student with what they need to participate. “The support we’ve received is amazing,” Linda says. “It shows the students that their hard work and dedication are valued by the community.”

The students also raise funds themselves. At some school sporting events, they sell crocheted items alongside Gatorade popsicles, and “pickle sickles”—frozen pickle juice treats popular among their classmates. “It’s like a cycle,” Hudson explains. “We sell items we’ve made to buy more yarn so we can make even more.” Linda shares that last year the club sold crocheted plushies—small stuffed animals that are always a hit with students and teachers. “The kids make everything from octopuses to little dragons,” she says with a laugh, recalling their colorful creations.

Each year, the Crochet Club completes a community service project, using their crochet skills to give back to those in need. Previously, students created blankets and matching plushies, which they donated to a fundraiser for the Carmi Children’s Home. Linda explains. “The students worked through the summer meeting in a church basement to make it happen.”

This year, the club’s service project is inspired by their end-of-year trip to Castle Park. Students plan to create a “castle collection” of crocheted dragons, wizards, and castles, selling these unique pieces to raise funds for the park, which is maintained entirely through donations. “The idea is that the money from our crochet creations goes back into the community,” says Hudson. “It’s a way to say thank you and support something we all enjoy.”

In addition to community projects, the club is planning an “aquarium project” led by Hudson’s friend Gabe, a seasoned crochet artist. The project involves creating an entire aquarium scene out of yarn, with crocheted fish, coral, and sea creatures. “It’s a fun challenge,” Hudson says, “and I think it’ll look amazing when it’s done.”

For Hudson, the Crochet Club has been a place to explore their creative side, build friendships, and take on new responsibilities. As last year’s president and one of the most experienced members, he helped teach new students and organize projects. “I’ve learned a lot about leadership,” he says, describing how guiding others has taught him patience and perseverance.

The Herrin Junior High Crochet Club is more than an after-school activity—it’s a testament to the school’s commitment to finding a place for everyone. Whether it’s through selling plushies, crafting blankets, or creating crochet castles, these students are leaving a positive impact on the community, one stitch at a time.