Rotary Second Threads Initiative

The Rotary Second Threads Initiative is designed to breathe new purpose into fabrics that would otherwise be discarded. One of the core goals of this project is to upcycle the khadas received during welcomes and honors at various events, transforming these symbolic pieces into functional items that continue to serve the community in meaningful ways. Donation of khadas is open to all Rotarians, encouraging collective participation and shared impact.

In addition, the Interact Club of Chelsea Academy has collected a significant quantity of clothing from students, which forms an essential part of this initiative. These clothes will now undergo a careful sorting process:

Wearable and donatable items will be distributed to individuals and communities in need.

The remaining fabrics—those that are older, mismatched, or unsuitable for direct use—will be creatively upcycled into patchwork shawls to provide warmth during the winter months.

Any further leftovers, such as cutouts, torn pieces, or unusable scraps, will be converted into microfibre, which will then be used to produce blankets for donation in areas requiring additional support.

Through this layered and sustainable approach, the Rotary Second Threads Initiative reinforces the values of circularity, environmental responsibility, and compassion. Every piece of fabric, no matter how small, is given a second life—ensuring that nothing goes to waste and everything contributes to warmth, dignity, and community welfare.