A couple of years ago, she started bringing her hobby of crocheting into the therapy room with her, and she has found that the quiet work of her hands while she is listening has had a relaxing effect on those with whom she is working. And her handiwork brings even more benefit to Walter’s Walk and its clients – the scarves she creates she sells as $10 fundraisers for the relatively new non-profit that aims to provide psychological and emotional wellness to all who walk in the door, whether or not they can afford to pay.
Moretto’s drive to serve others is nothing short of inspirational. Often rising early to meet clients for 6 a.m. sessions, she averages about 10 clients a day, about half of whom are “Walter’s Walk” clients who do not have insurance or cannot afford to pay. She crochets during most sessions and made about 125 scarves last year, a number she has already surpassed this year. So while it’s not a huge moneymaker for the small agency, her scarves provide one more piece in the financial puzzle of keeping the place open and operating.
“Our clients know that every little bit of money we raise helps those who cannot afford to pay for services,” Moretto says, “and they are so used to my crocheting that they’ll question me if I’m not. I also use it as a teaching tool, emphasizing the importance of developing relaxing hobbies. Several clients have started crocheting themselves and it has allowed them to relax and refocus.”
More About Walter’s Walk
Walter's Walk provides services to individuals who suffer from mental illness and/or addictions through counseling and education, with an integrated treatment approach. Walter's Walk provides these services that are not traditionally covered by health insurance, or for those without access to health insurance, at little or no cost to the client.
Moretto founded Walter’s Walk in memory of her father, Walter (1913-2005). His philosophy was to walk through life’s difficulties by remembering that love, support, activity, and creativity will get one through any situation. Walter was creative, and introspective. A master at woodworking, he also had a green thumb. He loved caring for his flowers, especially roses. Always the supportive father, Walter was behind Jean when she received her Masters Degree in Counseling, and Doctorate in Counseling Education.
While in her private practice, Moretto saw healthcare coverage diminish for many clients. She and others became aware of the need to provide integrated treatment to people seeking mental health care. The vision began with the development of Walter’s Walk. Jean follows in her father’s footsteps of providing a supportive network.
For more information on the services of Walter’s Walk or to purchase scarves in support of the work that Moretto and other professionals do, visit: www.walterswalk.com.
