Threads of Compassion

Threads of Compassion Program

Offered at a time when there are no words to say, the Indiana Donor Network Threads of Compassion program provides comfort shawls to donor families at the time of their loved one’s donation. The shawls are knitted and crocheted by volunteers across Indiana who give their time to create beautiful, handmade gifts for families as loving remembrances. The hope is that the shawls will bring families comfort in their time of sorrow and transition.

For more information about participating in Threads of Compassion by making shawls, fill out the form below or email our team at threads@INDonorNetwork.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

What shape should the shawl be?

The shawls should always be rectangular.

Should I wash my shawl before mailing it in?

Yes! Wash shawls in unscented detergent before mailing to Indiana Donor Network.

What dimensions should the shawl be?

Shawls should measure 24-34” wide and 65-70” long.

What pattern should I use?

Any patterns may be used that meet our specifications. Patterns are available for download.

How much yarn do I need?

Please download this helpful guide to determine how much yarn will be needed.

What if I need yarn?

Yarn can either be mailed to you or picked up at our offices on scheduled “yarn pick up” days. “Yarn pick up” dates are listed below:

The first Monday of every month from 10 am-1 pm (begins Monday, January 5, 2026).

The last Thursday of every month from 12-3pm (begins Thursday, January 29, 2026).

No yarn pick-up due to office closure on the following days: Monday, September 7 – Labor Day, Thursday, November 26 – Thanksgiving, Thursday, December 31 – New Year’s Eve

If you cannot pick up on these specific days, please fill out the participation form below and your yarn will be mailed to you in the next few weeks.

How do I turn in my shawls to Indiana Donor Network?

Mail your shawls back to Indiana Donor Network, Attn: Aftercare. Our address is 3750 Guion Road, Indianapolis, IN 46222 along with the Shawl Return Form.

OR
You may bring your shawl to Indiana Donor Network headquarters during office hours between 8:30 am-4:30 pm Monday through Thursday or 8:30 am-12:30 pm on Fridays. If you are bringing your shawl to the office and also need more yarn, we ask that you please come on a yarn pick up day listed above to ensure availability of someone to help you and to ensure that yarn is in stock.

I want to contribute, but can’t knit or crochet. Are there any other ways I can help?

You can make a monetary donation by visiting our contribution page. All monetary donations are tax deductible.

You can become an Indiana Donor Network Volunteer Advocate by visiting our Volunteer Advocate Program page.

Interested in helping? Need yarn?

Use the form below to join the Threads of Compassion program. If you are already a member, use the form below to request yarn to be mailed to you.

Threads of Compassion Interest Form

Select one

I'm interested in joining the Threads of Compassion program

I'm already part of the Threads of Compassion program and need to request yarn

Name *

First and last

Email *

Address *

Address

City

State

ZIP

County *

Phone

Do you need yarn mailed to you? *

Yes

Please specify how many shawls you plan to make

Do you crochet or knit?

Crochet

Knit

Do you have any specific questions?

If you are human, leave this field blank.

Thank you for your donation

These shawls help our donor families feel loved in an otherwise difficult time.

My comfort shawl gave me something to wrap my memories in for future sharing. It’s been my comfort for hard cries and snuggle times. This gift, made by love to share for broken hearts, has been a blessing.

Threads of Compassion is my way of showing organ and tissue donor families how much we care about them. Each stitch is done with love, and when they place the shawl around their shoulders, we want them to feel the hugs we are sending.