Rare Hand-Crafted “Generations Heirloom Quilt” Headlining KIDS FIRST! Auction
The Coalition for Quality Children’s Media (KIDS FIRST!) is honored to announce the auction of a rare, hand-crafted “Generations Heirloom Quilt” as a centerpiece of its 2026 Online Auction. Donated by a family rooted in the KIDS FIRST! community, this one-of-a-kind textile represents both a storied past and a bright future for youth media literacy.
The quilt was meticulously hand-crafted by the grandmother of a KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Alumnus. It serves as a stunning example of traditional quilting techniques, representing hundreds of hours of dedicated artistry. For collectors and enthusiasts, this piece offers a unique opportunity to own a work that embodies the “Generations” theme—bridging the gap between traditional folk art and the empowerment of the next generation.
“At KIDS FIRST!, we focus on storytelling in the digital age, but this quilt reminds us that some of the most powerful stories are told stitch by stitch,” says Ranny Levy, Founder and President. “We are thrilled to offer this masterwork to a community that understands the patience and passion required to create such a treasure.”
Proceeds from the sale of the Generations Heirloom Quilt will directly benefit the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program, a national initiative that teaches youth (ages 9–23) critical thinking and media literacy skills. Their review and talent interviews reach over 4 million people every month.
Auction Details:
- Item: The Generations Heirloom Quilt, 88” x 74”, by Master Quilt Maker Jean Carteen (1997)
- Bidding Platform: https://givebutter.com/c/kids-first-silent-auction-mhoskr/auction
- Bidding Closes: June 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. MDT
- “Buy It Now”: This item is eligible for instant purchase for collectors who wish to secure it immediately.
The Story Behind the Gift: The Carteen family is offering this treasured heirloom to honor the profound impact KIDS FIRST! has had on their lives. In a beautiful full-circle moment, the family credits founder Ranny Levy with recognizing the potential in Jean’s grandson, Keefer Carteen. The support he received helped him overcome a speech impediment and find his voice in the entertainment industry, where he is currently working on his first feature film.
This is more than a quilt; it is a legacy of love, offered to ensure the next generation of children find their voices, too. Support the future of children’s media by bidding on this extraordinary piece of handcrafted history.
About KIDS FIRST!: Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2026, the Coalition for Quality Children’s Media (CQCM) is a national non-profit (502-c-3) dedicated to teaching children to become critical media viewers. Through its KIDS FIRST! program, the organization evaluates, cruises, and promotes high-quality media that inspires and educates. The KIDS FIRST! Film Festival celebrates its 26th year and co-hosts film screenings in partnership with film festivals, schools, children’s museums and other venues across the US and internationally.
