Students at San Diego Continuing Education (SDCE) will make brightly colored and kid-friendly patterned pillowcases to benefit local foster youth. The Charity Sew event will take place on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at West City Campus in Point Loma (3249 Fordham St, San Diego, CA 92110).

SDCE offers San Diego residents two free fashion and textile career training programs including a 24-week Clothing Construction certificate and a 50-week Sewn Products Business certificate. SDCE’s summer fashion program will donate the personalized bedding materials to New Alternatives Family Visitation Center. The institution has partnered with local charities for more than 5 years including, Rady Children’s Hospital, Ryan’s Case for Smiles and New Alternatives Inc.

“Sewing is a gift,” said Tammie Pontsler, SDCE Faculty. “When students learn how to make their own products it is empowering and then to share it with others is a big part of why we do this.”

Unlike most high school graduates, Landen Saunders looks forward to attending summer school every week. After graduating from Point Loma High the 18-year-old decided he wanted to get a head start in the industry before heading off to California State University Long Beach in the fall. Saunders plans to design a clothing line that empowers youth to be more socially aware of the world and to follow their passions. “It’s amazing that we get to learn how to sew while giving back to the community. SDCE’s Charity Sew is very in line with what I want to do in the future.” said Saunders. “My generation has a lot of potential to do great things.”

SDCE is the noncredit division of the San Diego Community College District which includes San Diego City, Mesa and Miramar colleges. After certification completion at SDCE, students are ready for entry-level employment or can transition to San Diego Mesa College with up to four college credits earned toward an Associate Degree in Fashion.

SDCE’s Charity Sew Schedule:

9:00 a.m. Welcome Students

9:15 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Introduce New Alternatives Family Visitation Center/Guest Speaker

9:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Pillowcase Demonstration by SDCE Instructor

10:15 to 11:30 a.m. Students Make Pillowcases to Donate