Building Community: The Wood Shop

What began more than a decade ago as a small group of woodworking and repair enthusiasts working out of a converted storage space has evolved into something much bigger: a resident-designed, donor-funded Wood Shop that’s creating opportunities for learning, mentorship and meaningful connection.

For years, residents repaired walkers, built safety latch gates for neighbors living with dementia and created seasonal displays — proving that even in tight quarters, purpose finds a way. Now, thanks to the generosity of anonymous donors and the vision of residents themselves, that spirit of service has room to expand.

The new purpose-built Wood Shop features state-of-the-art equipment, including a modern band saw and advanced tools. More than 25 residents have already completed safety training, ready to pursue lifelong interests or develop entirely new ones — a true reflection of EverTrue’s Life According to You philosophy.

The mastermind behind the space is Roger, an EverTrue Laclede Groves resident with a background in electrical engineering and a lifelong love of construction and building connections. He used AutoCAD to design the shop and partnered closely with EverTrue team members to bring it to life. Residents even built the tables and workbenches themselves.

As Roger shared, “Now, to have all the tools and space we need – we can just enjoy building and fixing everything that comes our way. I’m sure you will find someone down here every day. It feels good to help out our neighbors.”

That neighborly spirit shows up in the details.

Dave, who has a background in metalwork, crafted custom drawer slides for the dozens of drawers lining the new tool bench. His precision is evident in every inch. “Each of the drawers is interchangeable,” he said proudly.

For Hank, a retired school principal with a lifelong love of woodworking, the shop represents possibility. “I’ve never had a place like this to work,” he said. He transforms scrap wood into intricate boxes and natural art pieces, turning someone else’s trash into beauty.

Wes blends his passions for gardening and woodworking, recently building shelves for the Garden Club toolshed. “I’m really happy with the new space! We can help even more people now,” he said.

The Wood Shop is more than a place for tools and timber. It’s where neighbors learn from one another, discover new skills at any age and continue finding purpose and fulfillment together.