Making a Difference at Maker Faire

Members of NCSRCC came together the first weekend of June not only to build coffee tables for families in need, but also to give kids real-life experience creating something with their hands.

The Carpenters Union participated in the Minneapolis/St. Paul Mini Maker Faire at the Minnesota State Fair Grounds June 1-2. The event brings together curious people with local “makers” who want to share what they can do. Makers at the Faire range from artists and crafters to scientists, engineers and, of course, carpenters.

Attendees stopping by the Council’s booth got to help build coffee tables that were then donated to Bridging, a local non-profit organization that provides donated furniture and household goods to those transitioning out of homelessness and poverty. Bridging serves nearly 300 people a week from their two warehouses located in the Twin Cities metro area.

Business Representative Ryan Ponthan helped out at the booth both days of the Faire. “This is a great event where we can reach a lot of people, including middle school students and teachers, and let them know what the Carpenters Union is all about,” he said. “Plus, partnering with Bridging is a great community service project. Members of the Carpenters Union often volunteer with charitable organizations in our communities, and we’re excited to share the skills we have honed both in our training centers and on our jobsites.”

Friday’s Faire was only open to seventh grade students and teachers, giving our members a chance to show kids and discuss with teachers that a job in the trades can provide meaningful work and education for young adults without the cost of a college degree.

Approximately 60 tables were built during Maker Faire, and with the help of some Twin Cities Apprentices, NCSRCC was able to donate 100 new coffee tables to families in need.