How does a woman with a B.S. in Human Resources and Organizational Behavior, 38 years of service across six federal agencies in three states, Washington, D.C., and four foreign countries end up designing birthday bags for our Home Meal Delivery clients? For Linda Winchester, the answer is simple: crafting has always been part of her life, no matter where life has taken her.
Growing up in Seaside, California, Linda’s love for creativity and community blossomed early. She was involved in Brownies, Girl Scouts, and various community projects like caroling at hospitals, assembling Christmas food baskets and May Day baskets filled with wildflowers. These early experiences shaped her lifelong passion for volunteering and giving back.
Linda believes that volunteering is all about connection; “Being part of a community means contributing to it. It warms the soul and expands one’s world.” This belief stayed with her as she embarked on a career in Federal Service, working across the U.S. and abroad. Throughout her career, Linda continued to volunteer and serve her community wherever she called home.
After retiring, Linda turned her artistic passion into a business—Artful Arrangements, designing themed décor for children’s rooms. She also had a full woodworking shop in her garage, where she crafted custom, decorative items for an interior design firm.
Linda’s journey with Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula began with a simple question: “What can I create?” She asked the MOWMP team if there was a way she could contribute, and they suggested birthday bags. Linda enthusiastically took on the project. Linda’s thoughtful creations have been cherished by our clients, many of whom display the birthday bags as wall art. Linda’s work has been a source of happiness and appreciation for clients, who frequently send thank-you cards and calls expressing their gratitude.
For Linda, crafting isn’t just about the art—it’s about the joy it brings others. “I am happy crafting with almost any medium. What makes it even better is thinking about the person receiving the bag and picturing the smile it may bring.”
We are deeply grateful for Linda’s generosity and creativity. Her birthday bags bring joy and brighten the lives of our clients, reminding them they are cared for and celebrated. Thank you, Linda!
