Would Works & Nick Offerman partner for version 2.0
We are proud to announce that our incredible non-profit Would Works is back in action and better than ever. Thanks to the creation and hard work of Connor Johnson and the generosity of wood worker/actor Nick Offerman we are now ‘back in business'.
A few weeks ago we had our first session to prepare cutting boards for the launch of the new Would Works website and fund raising campaign.
Four members spent three days in the basement of a Skid Row Housing Trust sanding, branding and finishing white oak cutting boards. Each day the artisans arrived with the eagerness to learn and put in a hard day's work.
Rocky, a former plumber and Marine, and Gregory, also a veteran, were both working towards a goal to help pay rent. Another artisan had secured a hotel room for one night but didn't have anything lined up for the next. At the end of his session he stated:
“This is the best job I’ve ever had.”
All four gentleman busted their butts in the downtown LA summer heat, creating beautiful hardwood cutting boards.
Stand by. This is just the beginning! Would-Works’ wood products will be hitting the cyber 'shelves' very shortly, while employing and empowering individuals going through challenging times. We'll be reporting on each session and how the Would Works team provides quality work opportunities for those in need.
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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
A Look Into Our Transformative 2023
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.