Organ Procurement Organization to Host ‘Knit Hope’ Tribute Event in Honor of Organ Donor Charles Connelly

event encourages residents to contribute knitted and crocheted blankets as well as yarn

BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA, FLORIDA – Central Florida’s Federally designated organ procurement organization, Our Legacy, and partners will host the Knit Hope event at the Boardroom Wine and Charcuterie Bar, 37 N Brevard Ave, Cocoa Beach, on Thursday, September 25, from 4 – 9 p.m. to honor Boardroom founding member and organ donor Charles Connelly.

This event is a collaborative effort between The Boardroom in Cocoa Beach, the Connelly family, OurLegacy Organ and Tissue Donation, and critical care team members from Health First.

This celebration of life honors Charles for his contributions to caring for his community, both during his lifetime and in his heroic legacy, with the unveiling of a special memorial plaque that provides meaningful context to this work of art and his legacy through donation.

Every Central Florida organ donor hero is honored with a knitted or crocheted blanket created by the community at the time of their passing. These blankets honor heroes in their final moments and are ceremonially passed to their families as a keepsake. Learn more about OurLegacy Knit Hope blanket program at www.ourlegacyfl.org/knit

With each donation, you will receive a raffle ticket for prizes. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

The event encourages residents to contribute knitted and crocheted blankets as well as yarn donations. Blankets of any color, sized three feet by three feet, will be accepted. While Lion Brand and chenille yarn are preferred, all types of yarn donations will be welcomed to support the efforts of volunteers.

Monetary contributions will also be accepted, with all funds directed toward purchasing yarn for the cause.

About Charles Connelly

Charles was a beloved local who loved surfing, fishing, biking, and helping others.

“Much of what Boardroom is today is because of the care and craftsmanship of Charles,” said Carissa, a Boardroom spokesperson.

A painting of a surfer catching a wave on Cocoa Beach hangs in the Boardroom in his memory.

At 18, Charles made the selfless decision to become an organ donor. Just two years later, he unexpectedly passed away. His choice to give the Gift of Life saved five lives. Charles’ legacy lives on not only in those he saved but in the lives he continues to touch today.

“Charles helped build the Boardroom with his own hands. He painted the walls and shaped the concrete bar. He poured love into every detail and dreamed of creating a space where the community could come together,” said Carissa.

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