By Ken Boff
Looking for a fresh way to unleash your creativity? Look no further than the Atlanta Community ToolBank! Join us for our engaging classes, where you’ll learn the ins and outs of safe tool usage while crafting alongside fellow enthusiasts. Led by our experienced director and longtime Ormewood Park resident CJ Clark in our cozy Tool Training Center, you’ll embark on a step-by-step journey to create your own one-of-a-kind project to proudly take home. We provide all the tools and materials – all you need to bring is your excitement and eagerness to learn! For more information about Crafter Hours, check the ToolBank’s website at www.atlantatoolbank.org/ttc/crafterhours.
Origins of the Atlanta ToolBank
The Atlanta ToolBank story began in 1991 with a dedicated group of volunteers committed to assisting low-income seniors in south Atlanta neighborhoods. Under the banner of Community Redevelopment, Inc (CRI), the mission was clear: ensure that every homeowner had a warm, safe, and dry dwelling.
As tools poured in from generous donors, CRI found itself at the heart of a burgeoning movement. By 1996, their collection had outgrown its space, prompting a move to an expansive 11,000 square foot warehouse. With this expansion, CRI transformed into the Atlanta Community ToolBank Inc.
Over time, the ToolBank has grown its collection of tools and increased its assistance to local agencies by lending tools for community-based improvement projects. In 2013, fueled by the support of numerous local organizations and foundations, the ToolBank upgraded to an even larger warehouse at its current home at 410 Englewood Avenue, paving the way for further growth.
A Proud Member of the ToolBank USA Network. Since 2008, the Atlanta ToolBank has stood as a cornerstone of the ToolBank USA Network. As the inaugural ToolBank, it serves as a model for the eight other ToolBanks across the United States. Despite its affiliation, the Atlanta ToolBank operates autonomously, governed by a dedicated local board of directors and sustained solely by local funding.
Supporting Nonprofit Member Agencies. The ToolBank assists nonprofit organizations in multiple ways.
Loaning Tools: Providing essential tools for service projects.
Supplying Materials: Offering limited material support for projects.
Education Programs: Hosting educational initiatives at the Tool Training Center.
Local Agencies Making an Impact. Several local agencies, familiar to recipients of Porch Press, benefit from the ToolBank’s assistance, including Ormewood Church, Oakland Cemetery, Grant Park, Brownwood Park, East Atlanta Beer Festival, Trees Atlanta, Neighborhood Charter School, EAV Strut, Inc., East Atlanta Kids Club, Neighbor in Need, SAND, Girl Scouts Troop 18120, Warren Hollyfield Boys and Girls Club, Cabbagetown Initiative CDC, The Splinter Group, Burgess Peterson Academy, and many others.
What the ToolBank Offers You. For individuals seeking tools or involvement, the ToolBank provides a range of services.
ToolRush: Access the tools needed for your project.
Kids Program Tool Lab Kids: Engage in hands-on learning about tools and construction.
CrafterHours: Explore creative projects with tools.
Party/Event Space: A 2,000 sq. ft. event space available to rent.
Stay tuned for expanded public programming as the ToolBank continues to grow, including upcoming Youth Birthday Party builds!
