Taaj

by Audrie Gomez September 04, 2023 in Community Builders, Young Makers Program

Click here to listen to Taajs' story.

Taaj is one of our Artisans who is a part of our Young Makers Program. After serving in the U.S. Airforce Taaj found himself out of work leading to him becoming unhoused.

Taaj discovered Would Works on a pamphlet from church his uncle brought home and filled out the application right then and there. Taaj was uncertain what he was going to do with his life after experiencing homelessness but through woodworking he was able to discover his passion. Not only has he found a skill he wants to pursue professionally but he has built a sense of responsibility and ability to communicate effectively.

Taaj’s goal is to one day have the skills to build his own house. He saw our program as a way to explore his creative side and reach toward his goal.

Taaj has grown tremendously since starting at Would Works and has become accountable for himself through self reflection. He is constantly pushing himself to try new things and learn new skills to better his education in our Beginners Builders Program.

“Something bad may have happened in the past, but you can always change it.” -Taaj

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Also in Our Artisans

Tim

December 21, 2023

After being adopted at the age of 8, Tim moved from Washington state to California where he built a new life with his adoptive parents. Even though his relationship with them was a loving and supportive one, Tim found himself navigating the challenges of homelessness as a late teen. While unhoused, Tim expressed he had to quickly mature and actively sought a path "off the streets."

Meet Our Young Makers

July 17, 2023

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.