The Welman Project

Our creative reuse education program helps teachers bring hands-on, open-ended learning to the classroom, building complex problem-solving and critical thinking skills by challenging students to experiment, design, and see things in a different way. With free access to power tools, crafting equipment, and design software, teachers can create an engaging learning environment and hands-on, creative projects for their students without budget limitations standing in their way. Teachers from across districts, grade levels, and subjects are able to collaborate and exchange ideas, and retired teacher and craftsman volunteers provide inspiration and guidance during our open makerspace hours. In our professional development workshops, we provide teachers with training and materials for unique projects, along with guidance on utilizing creative reuse to make their daily STEAM curriculum more hands-on without having to spend money on supplies. In 2024, 2,375 individuals engaged in a creative reuse class, workshop, or event, and over 700 students participated in our annual recycled art exhibit, practicing teamwork and creativity while learning about waste reduction.

Through our creative reuse community marketplace, we're reducing waste and making artistic pursuits more accessible by selling affordable secondhand arts and crafts materials both in person and online. In our creative reuse storefront, the Curiosity Shop, artists and makers can find the supplies they need along with unique materials they can't get elsewhere, and kids are able to dream beyond the generic craft kit with our fill-a-bag section of unusual treasures to create with. The community is also able to support local artists in our consignment section, which features art and handmade goods using repurposed materials. We served over 2,847 families and individuals through this program in 2024. We also educate the public about the importance of reducing waste and how they can creatively reuse common materials through presentations to groups and booths at community events, reaching thousands more individuals.