Special to the Journal
Linda Sessa, founder of Outside the Box Learning Company, is delighted to unveil an exciting initiative in collaboration with the Revere Recreation Department. Made possible through a generous grant from the Revere Cultural Council and The Massachusetts Cultural Council, free sewing classes are set to launch, offering an empowering and engaging experience for Revere residents.
These classes are crafted to cater to beginners, providing an introduction to sewing using a machine. More than just skill-building sessions, these classes serve as a platform for individuals to cultivate new talents, foster creativity, and forge connections with fellow community members who share a passion for the art of sewing.
Classes are open to individuals of all ages, and family engagement is encouraged. Thanks to the generous grant from the Revere Cultural Council, we have been able to secure nine sewing machines, along with all the necessary notions and expenses required for the classes. This significant investment from the Revere Cultural Council reflects their dedication to the residents of Revere. Together, we are committed to enhancing the cultural life of our community by endorsing a diverse array of artistic and cultural activities.
The Sustainable Life Skills-FREE Sewing Classes, made possible by the support of the Revere Cultural Council and spearheaded by Linda Sessa, aim to empower individuals. The goal is to contribute to personal development, promote sustainable living, and foster community building. These initiatives go beyond traditional skills, offering participants practical and creative tools that can help them save or earn money while flexing their creative muscles.
These classes stand as a tribute to the legacy of Emilio “Leo” Sessa, father of Linda Sessa and a distinguished master tailor hailing from Italy, who graced Revere with his vibrant presence. Leo, an esteemed citizen of Revere, left an indelible mark on the community, both through his exceptional tailoring skills, ice cream truck, and his unwavering commitment to fostering a more sustainable and interconnected community.
In honoring Leo’s memory, these classes aim not only to impart the art of sewing but also to perpetuate his spirit of community engagement. Through this dedication, the hope is to carry forward the values of craftsmanship and community building that Leo so passionately embodied, ensuring that his positive influence continues to resonate within the heart of Revere.
The classes will begin January 4 and run on Thursdays from 3:45-5:00pm They will be held at the League for Special Needs at 200 Winthrop Ave. There will be 3 sessions of 3 classes each. The classes will cover a wide range of topics, including:
• Basic Sewing Techniques: Learn essential skills such as threading a sewing machine, stitching, and understanding different fabrics.
• Sewing buttons, hemming and making a pillow.
• Upcycling and Repurposing: Discover innovative ways to repurpose old clothes and fabrics, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
• Community Crafting: Engage with fellow community members in a supportive and collaborative environment, fostering friendships and creativity.
After the classes were shared on social media, registration reached full capacity swiftly, leading to the establishment of a waiting list. This surge in demand underscores the widespread desire for essential life skills, particularly in sustainable practices like sewing. Traditionally imparted in educational institutions, these valuable skills have shifted to enrichment and recreation programs for today’s learners. Currently, accommodating everyone interested in this program is not feasible. However, with assistance, support and backing from community members, organizations, and local businesses, we can introduce more sustainable life skills classes to benefit local residents. Linda is enthusiastic about partnering with your agency to expand the availability of similar programs.
For more information about getting on the waitlist and/or other programs or services offered by Linda Sessa, please contact:
Linda Sessa of Outside the Box Learning Company [email protected]
978-530-1302
Linda Sessa believes in the power of education and skill building to transform lives and is committed to making these valuable skills accessible to everyone in the community especially children and families. She travels around bringing engaging, interactive, and fun classes to, communities, families, schools, organizations, homeschoolers, libraries, recreation departments, forests, beaches, parties etc. She is a homeschool mom, HiSET teacher, artist, naturist, cook, explorer and a lifetime student. The interactive classes offered are based around:
• Building Community/Social Skills
• Nature Appreciation and Symbiotic Living
• Building Sustainable Life Skills/Home Economics
• Stimulating Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills
• Embracing Neurodivergence
• Celebrating Diversity
• Encouraging Exploration & Outside the Box Thinking
“This program is supported in part by a grant from the Revere Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.”
