Incoming TU Freshman Brandi Motsinger of Bellefontaine, Ohio, founded her own nonprofit organization in February of 2016 with the help of Stony Creek Church of the Brethren. Wide Arms Security Blankets provides new or gently used blankets worldwide to homeless shelters, relief centers and families who are victims of natural disasters and shares the gospel of God. Each blanket comes with a letter explaining Brandi’s story, how and why the foundation started, the gospel and a prayer. Brandi’s hope is to extend her reach to children worldwide through her organization, and share with them the hope and security found in God.
This organization stemmed from Brandi’s volunteer work with a homeless shelter in Dayton, Ohio, where there was a room that had cots, toiletries and supplies that would be donated to people in need. One day, a little boy came in with no family requesting a blanket and none were available. This stirred in Brandi’s heart and she went home to talk to her mom and to other organizations asking for advice on starting this nonprofit. Numerous people advised her that it was not a good idea to start this organization because she was so young. Refusing to give up on her passion, Brandi signed a contract with her church to be able to make this a tax-exempt organization to get started. Today, Wide Arms Security Blankets has donated over 700 blankets to shelters and relief centers worldwide – some of which were handmade by donors. She recently dropped off over 400 blankets in Cincinnati, where she met some of the recipients.
When asked if she could give any advice to people who want to start a nonprofit, her one word was perseverance. She said to not let anyone tell you no because of your age, whether it be young or old. She said to never give up.
For more information about this organization, you can email widearms@stonycreekcob.com