Would Works was so much more than I expected it to be. I felt like I was part of a family. I learned so much more than wood work-- I learned work ethics, responsibility, accountability, and preparation for re-entry into the workforce. Participating in the Would Works program was the very reason I was able to obtain employment and stay employed.
--WW Artisan Glasha Williams
The opportunity to simply work hard for wages in order to afford the basic comforts of life is a great privilege that many of us in this country enjoy, and even take for granted. Would Works provides people who are homeless or living in poverty with the dignity of doing good work.
Meet Taaj, Tim and Quinn – Three of our Artisans in Would Works’ Young Makers Program.
The Young Makers Program provides youth the opportunity to learn the beginning fundamentals of woodworking. At WW they learn to fabricate kitchen products and furniture all the while gaining experience using tools and machines in the wood shop that will prepare them for jobs when they graduate from our program.
Sarah Watlington Spotlights Community Builders Program in Fine Woodworking Magazine
As we dive into a new year, it's inspiring to see our work with Angel City Lumber gaining recognition. Sarah Watlington recently penned a piece in Fine Woodworking, shining a spotlight on our collaboration and the impact it's having on our community.
Would Works to Receive $10,000 Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts
Would Works is pleased to announce it has been approved by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for a Challenge America award of $10,000. This grant will support our new Peoples’ Builders Program.A Look Into Our Transformative 2023
Dear Friends and Supporters of Would Works,Winding down this year, we express deep gratitude for your support and engagement with Would Works. 2023 began expansively: WW Community Builders Program Artisans and our team took a field trip to the snow-covered Angeles National Forest in the San Gabriel Mountains north of the city. Shirley is the Artisan Lead at Would Works and was born and raised in LA. She’s now in her mid-60’s, yet she’s never been up to the Angeles Forest. Our city is surrounded by abundant landscapes, but many residents who face barriers to employment also lack access to experiences in nature. This forest visit reflects the growth trajectory of Would Works, which we illuminate here.
Community Builders Program Fabricates Bench for the Aster Apartments
Recently, our Community Builders Program was tasked to fabricate a 12 foot long communal bench for the 56 unit Aster Apartments, an affordable housing site located in South LA.