Aprons for a Cause: Supporting the Greer Center

“You’re never without a possibility.” How one resident pursues living her best life by blending craft, creativity, and compassion.

A Peaceful Workshop, a Purposeful Mission

In the quiet comfort of her half-garage studio in a ClarkLindsey villa,

Pat Barnes-McConnell finds a sense of peace and calm that fuels her passion for giving back. For three years, she has transformed this humble space into a creative sanctuary, where fabric, thread, and her steadfast 50-year-old Singer sewing machine unite with purpose. Each stitch tells a story of generosity and hope, culminating annually in a special sale that benefits the Carol Greer Community Learning Center, a ministry of St Stephens Community Church, UCC, in Lansing, Michigan—a place devoted to serving at-risk children, in a community where Pat lived for decades.

The Humble Beginnings and Enduring Craft

Pat’s sewing journey began in childhood, when her foster-mother taught her to

guide needle and thread with care. What started as a simple pastime for a sickly

child has grown into a lifelong devotion, nurtured by decades of practice and a

heart for service. Her trusty Singer sewing machine, a golden companion through

thick and thin, still hums reliably with every new project. Together, Pat and her

machine have fashioned countless aprons, each one a testament to skill, patience, and love. Pat said it is the creativity in the work that she loves, sharing “you’re never without a possibility.” This could be said for the good cause her aprons support.

Aprons for a Cause: Supporting the Greer Center

Pat’s Apron Silent Auctions have been among the highlights of The Gallery at ClarkLindsey. 100% of their proceeds go into an endowment initiated to ensure the Center’s sustainability. This year alone, her labor of love generated an impressive $1,800, contributing to the endowment’s asset growth and providing essential operational support in perpetuity. The Auction is more than an event—it’s a bridge between Pat’s quiet workshop and a community’s brighter future. Pat worked with children for years, teaching them through hands-on learning, including sewing, STEM activities, and the arts. She remembers fondly their trip to see Hamilton, and the preparation in advance, as they took turns reciting from the script.

Giving Back with Gratitude

For Pat, sewing aprons is more than a charitable act; it is an expression of deep gratitude. “I feel like one of the most blessed people on earth,” she reflects. Her generosity is her way of giving back, a gesture that honors the blessings she has received by passing them along to others. Through her dedication, Pat not only crafts beautiful aprons but also weaves a legacy of kindness and hope. Her story is a reminder of the impact one person can have, armed with skill, a willing spirit, and an open heart.