Our Story
Past
Our founder, Aaron Goodge, always has always had a love of craft and community. He has worked in the construction industry for over 20 years, providing home repair and remodeling services. He knows how to build all kinds of things but building community is his passion. Toolbox Laboratories began as a way to join others who are passionate about community. Since Jan 2022, we’ve provided affordable (often free!) hands on activities to the community at markets, libraries, school settings, and street fairs. In our shop on the Foss Waterway, we create curriculum and build all kinds of things - even a giant snow globe photo booth!
Present
We are happy to offer classes on home repair, tool safety, project consultation, woodworking, crafty things and the exploration of materials. Two years in and we’re offering these activities in our shop or out in the world. All these safety workshops, fun projects and twice-monthly CRAFT NIGHT! are created inspired to create access for all who want to engage science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) with an added emphasis on emotional intelligence and cultural identity. All of our activities, unless otherwise specified, are provided for young people of all ages and abilities and adults because we believe in accessibility for people with diverse skillsets and abilities.
Future
Your ideas and donations keep us going! We’ll be here as long as our Tacoma community needs and supports the work we do. We will be here to provide space and inspiration for community to create, explore and grow. Share your ideas, tell us what you need; let’s find out what we can build together.
Team
Toolbox Laboratories
Aaron Goodge
Carpenter & Teaching Artist
Estelle “Stella” Goodge
Chief Welcoming Officer
Abigail Vizcarra Perez
Teaching Artist