10-year-old Caroline Holtslander of Rome is not only talented, but is making a difference in her community. Since the pandemic began, Caroline started her own business sewing masks to help people in need due to the mask shortage. Now, Caroline has continued sewing masks, over 800 to be exact, this time to support The Kelberman Center, a local organization that provides services and supports to children and adults with autism. For every mask sold, Caroline has decided to donate one to The Kelberman Center. According to Caroline, “I told my mom I wanted to donate to an organization somehow with the masks I was making. We had these puzzle patterns and my mom suggested I donate them to help people with autism. It makes me feel good to know that I’m helping my community by donating and creating autism awareness by having friends and family wear my autism masks.”
Kelberman Center Executive Director Tara Costello commented, “Thank you to Caroline for spreading joy to our staff and families at The Kelberman Center this holiday season. It is amazing that Caroline has chosen the use of puzzle piece fabric, representative of autism awareness, to help further our mission, while also helping to keep everyone safe and healthy.” For more information on Caroline’s masks, please contact The Kelberman Center at info@kelbermancenter.org
