With the buzz of saws and the whine of drills in the background, those who got into a free city program created a solid step-stool that will last for decades.
The hands-on woodworking class, designed to bring together those from different generations, had a rush to register that was significant to the organizers.
“We had full registration and a wait list,” said Amy Brandt, who works in social development for the City of Brantford.
“People were really interested in this program and we’re ecstatic with the turnout.”
That interest points to the need to continue creating social inclusion events, said Brandt, that bring all types of community members together.
“It tells us families really want to spend more time together and work side by side.”
For Ed Ellens and his son, Clay, 14, the afternoon at the Costain/Johnson Community Center was a chance to both enjoy some father-son quality time and, for Clay, to dabble in a potential career.
“I’m a machinist and his brother’s in a millwright program but Clay is not quite sure what he wants to do later in life, so he’s trying things out,” said Ed Ellens.
And that’s just what Marco Habib wants to hear.
The Organized Chaos organizer, who was running Saturday’s program, said his group focuses on mentoring youth into the much-needed trades.
“Usually, our core programs are in the evenings and we build relationships while promoting electrical and carpentry careers.”
But Saturday was about building relationships between kids and parents, grandparents or guardians, as well as building a sturdy step-stool to take home.
Habib instructed the participants on the various tools that were being used, went through tips, such as why it’s important to pre-drill holes when using screws, and made sure everyone knew how to avoid some common problems.
“This has been a remarkable turnout and is a great way to connect people together.”
Leona-Marie Lichtblau, 10, was boldly sawing and drilling slabs of wood with aplomb – carefully monitored by both her grandmother, Cynthia Chamberlin, and Organized Chaos assistant Matthew Freeman.
“We have a big backyard and lots of things we need to build,” said Chamberlin.
Leona said their first project might be another step-stool because she has plenty of small cans of paint she’d like to use.
The next in the city’s Let’s Learn Together series will be two sessions of learning Dance Fit during March break.
The one-hour classes on March 15 and 17 from 1:30-2:30 pm at the Wayne Gretzky Sports Center will focus on the connection between psychical activity and dancing.
“It’s another free class and you don’t have to have any skills to enjoy it,” said Brandt, adding that the moves can be modified for all abilities.
For more information, check out the city’s website at http://bit.ly/3YXFjY1 or email [email protected].
@EXPSGamble
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