As one who has BTDT, I would recommend a good size lap quilt. I also agree with doing a raffle vs. auction if that is an option. When I did this I went for a patriotic theme. Used a published pattern that I had purchased. Did star blocks in white, blue/white background and red binding with red/white/blue backing. Was very well received and raised a reasonable amount of $$ for the small audience we had to work with. My personal opinion, in doing something patriotic, you won't have as many folks looking at the quilt and while thinking it is lovely, saying to themselves...'but those colors don't work in my house'. Just about everyone is willing to having something patriotic in their homes.