WEEKEND WORKSHOPS

Midwest Mission has launched Weekend Workshops — dedicated time for volunteers to use their specific skills to help with tasks such as bike repair, sewing machine repair, sewing, and more! These hands-on workshops will be led by volunteer shop leaders who will guide participants through the different tasks. Why? Midwest Mission receives more items than our local key volunteers can repair! These workshops will ensure more items will be available to send out, and we hope more people might be interested in becoming local key volunteers (volunteers who regularly come to Midwest Mission and volunteer in a specific area).

Upcoming Workshops

JUNE

Sewing Retreat (IA)

Join us this summer for the Midwest Mission Sewing Retreat in Iowa, June 18-20, 2026! This special event brings together mission-minded sewers to create some of the most needed hand-sewn items that go directly into Midwest Mission Feminine Hygiene and Layette Kits. Each participant will receive one pre-cut kit for every sewing session and instruction from our experts. Whether you’re an experienced sewist or simply love to sew for a purpose, this retreat is the perfect opportunity to sew together in fellowship with others.

The retreat kicks off Thursday afternoon with set-up, free sewing time, and a potluck meal before diving into projects. On Friday and Saturday, participants can begin the day with an optional devotion and worship at Jefferson First UMC, followed by a light breakfast and full day of guided sewing. Lodging options are available at Jefferson First UMC or at the Cobblestone Hotel with a special Midwest Mission rate.

Free-will donations will be accepted to help cover the cost of the event.

To register, contact Midwest Mission Iowa at (515) 386-2236 or iowa@midwestmission.org.

EMAIL TO REGISTER

JULY

Bike Repair Blitz (IL)

This hands-on workshop brings volunteers together to inspect, repair, and restore unverified donated bikes. Participants will work through basic assessments, cleaning, adjustments, and necessary repairs to help make each bike safe, functional, and ready for use. The goal of the workshop is to efficiently evaluate donated bikes, determine needed fixes, and transform as many as possible into fully operational bicycles that can be put back into service for the community.

OCTOBER

Sewing Machine Repair (IL)

Sewing Machine Repair Day is a focused workday where we inspect, test, and repair donated sewing machines to make sure they are safe, functional, and ready for use.

Verifying machines means:

Plugging in and powering on each machine
Checking that it runs smoothly (needle, motor, foot pedal)
Testing basic stitches and tension
Identifying machines that need minor repairs, major repairs, or parts
Labeling machines as Ready, Needs Repair, or Parts Only

The goal is to ensure every verified machine is reliable and ready to serve its purpose before it moves on for distribution or use.

This is from 8:30am-3pm — please bring your own lunch or make plans to eat out.

There are two positions offered:
1) Threading & Running (Testing Machines)
2) Tuning & Cleaning (Making Repairs)

Please sign up for the one you are interested in — and make sure you sign up for October 17th.