Nathanie
A four time published writer with a background in modeling, acting and performance arts--Nathanie brings an artist's sense of awe and transformation to the wood shop: "Anything I can create with my hands and see an outcome from it, its just amazing...at the end of the day I look at it and I'm like wow--it doesn't even feel like wood any more-it feels like glass."
Ben
Ben has struggled with incarceration and homelessness, but has been working hard to get his life back on track. We were blessed to have him join the Would Works team both because of his strong work ethic and shop skills, and because of his contagious positivity, inspirational determination, and warm personality.
Denise
Denise is a Los Angeles native with a professional background in janitorial services. She was referred to Would Works by the employment specialists at Chrysalis who are helping her find more permanent stable employment. She came to Would works with the goal of paying off a debt of past due rent, so she can keep her housing while looking for work and supporting her son.
Ishmael
Ishmael speaks eloquently about the hardships of living on the streets and the restorative nature of having productive work. His goal is to pay his rent and bills for the month of December so that he can save up to visit his daughter and grandchildren in Colorado for Christmas.
Ernie
Ernie is our large order pro! He first came to Would Works in October 2016 to help us crank out 3,000 custom coasters for ManCrates, and we are happy to have him back this Fall working on another large order of custom menu boards for Dominique Ansel’s new restaurant at The Grove.
Magdalena
Magdelena is a skilled craftswoman who's beautiful crochet work is on display and for sale at Made by DTWC. She is also enrolled in community college where she's preparing for the GED exam. Her drive is inspiring to us all, as is her story.
Would Works Artisan Ali Jumps Behind the Camera
Star artisan Ali quickly proved himself to be a skilled finisher with a keen eye for detail so we weren't too surprised to learn he also has a talent for cinematography. Check out the great promotional video he made for Would Works!
Mohammad
Mohammad got his degree in mechanical engineering from Seattle University and moved to LA to work for Boeing. During his time at Would Works he has definitely demonstrated an engineer's meticulousness and work ethic, adding a lot to the current team of Artisans.
Darnell
Darnell was once a horse groomer at the Santa Anita track, now he's discovered he loves doing hair for people too! He is currently working towards a tuition payment for cosmetology school and is actively seeking permanent housing and employment.
Scott
Scott is a spoken word artist who has given poetic life to the Skid Row neighborhood he has called home since 2009. He's been living in a tent with his beloved cat Sheba, but is working towards the goal of a security deposit for housing.
Vadim
In 2011 Vadim was laid off from a decade-long career in construction. While searching for work, he needed clothes and transportation for interviews.
Joe
Joe had been homeless and living on the streets of LA for many years. He found a low-income apartment and needed to furnish it. Would Works was able to help.
