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Suzie Willyerd

Founder, President, and Sewer

Suzie Willyerd holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and a Master’s degree in Medical Nutrition. Her professional background reflects a lifelong commitment to helping others care for their health in a holistic way, supporting both the body and the mind.
 

Before founding Suzie Sews Sunshine, Suzie built a strong foundation in leadership, organization, and service through years of hands-on experience in her home and community. As a mother of four boys, she managed the daily demands of a busy household while creating an environment centered on resilience, encouragement, and faith. She has spent years coordinating schedules, supporting her children in athletics, and fostering growth and discipline in her family—skills that translate directly into her ability to lead and sustain a mission-driven organization.
 

Service has been a defining thread throughout Suzie’s life. She has volunteered extensively through church, schools, and community organizations, taking on both leadership and support roles. Her experience includes organizing large-scale events, planning camps and conferences, teaching classes, coordinating volunteers, and managing complex logistics. She is equally committed to the behind-the-scenes work that ensures programs run smoothly, demonstrating both initiative and follow-through.

Suzie brings a unique combination of creativity and structure to her work. Her ability to design, create, and produce high-quality handmade items is matched by her attention to detail, consistency, and work ethic. She has developed systems to manage production, maintain quality, and connect meaningfully with her community, all of which are essential to operating a successful nonprofit.
 

In 2024, Suzie experienced the loss of her brother, a proud Marine, to suicide. This profound loss strengthened her commitment to service and deepened her desire to support others facing similar challenges. Rather than stepping away, she channeled her energy into purposeful work that could make a meaningful difference.
 

Today, Suzie leads Suzie Sews Sunshine with a clear vision and strong operational foundation. Her work is driven by compassion, sustained by discipline, and guided by a deep commitment to helping others. Through her leadership, the organization continues to grow in both impact and reach, supporting suicide prevention efforts while building a community centered on hope, connection, and purpose.

Contact Suzie

480-957-7249

A picture of Suzie wearing a blue and white apron that she made.

Photo by Andria May Photography, Gilbert Family & Senior Photographer

480-957-7249

Mesa, AZ 85213

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Suzie Sews Sunshine Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Arizona that combines creativity, community, and compassion through sewing education and handcrafted goods. Our mission is to spread hope and sunshine while supporting suicide prevention efforts through outreach, education, and service.

We offer sewing lessons for children, teens, and adults of all skill levels in a welcoming and encouraging environment. Students learn sewing basics, fabric knowledge, machine skills, and creative project construction while building confidence and practical life skills. Whether you are brand new to sewing or looking to expand your abilities, classes are designed to inspire creativity and connection.

In addition to sewing lessons, the foundation creates handmade aprons, children’s and baby clothing, accessories, home goods, and other sewn items. Some products are created using repurposed and upcycled materials. Every purchase supports our mission, with proceeds helping fund suicide prevention awareness and outreach efforts.

At Suzie Sews Sunshine Foundation, we believe every stitch can spread a little more light, kindness, and hope into the world.

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