TRAER - Preparations for the seventh annual Return the Favor quilt making venture are under way.

Volunteers will gather at 9 a.m. Jan. 26-27 in the Traer Memorial Building. Organizers say tasks - pinning, pressing, cutting and tying - are available for men, women and children and sewing skills are not necessary.

Return the Favor began after Cindy Forbes, organizer Pat McKinney's sister, was diagnosed with esophageal cancer. Forbes received a quilt and determined the idea of thoughtful giving should continue.

In seven years, quilters in the community made more than 2,000 blankets and given them to people with serious and terminal illnesses. The quilts have gone to nursing homes, hospitals, hospice programs, veterans homes and the Children's Miracle Network.

Many people, organizations and companies support the effort by donating materials, money and time.

A potluck and door prizes will be available both days, and a silent auction, raffle and other fund raisers will help support the cause.

For information on how to get involved, e-mail pmckinneyrural@traer.net or call Pat McKinney at (319) 415-9784.