Makerspace

Networks Ministries believes that having the opportunity to build connections and having new experiences is key to good mental health. The makerspace is just that. It a place where you can experience new and interesting things together with others.  The Makerspace has 7000 sqft of space where people can be creative and share ideas. This space includes a workshop, textiles and craft section,  stained glass, technology lab, multipurpose rooms for workshops, gymnasium for events, outdoor workspace for bigger projects.

What is a Makerspace?

In a Makerspace, you will find the tools and equipment that the members can use. Some tools may require that you have a maker technician help you to ensure safety. Members can teach mini-workshops for the other makers that would like to learn something new. There will people there with all levels of experience and skill.

How does it work?

The makerspace is made up of many members. Members pay a monthly fee to use the equipment in the space. To be a member you will need to fill out some forms when you register. One of these forms is a code of conduct that sets out the rules for how each person is expected to act when they are in the space and guidelines about respecting other people’s projects and so on. This key to ensuring that everyone will have a good experience. Prior to becoming a member, each person must attend an orientation meeting. This meeting will explain how the space is to be used and the expectations we have for the members who use the space.

When will it open?

We anticipate that the Makerspace will be open in January2021

What opportunities will there be?

Of course, this will take some time to set up and we want to improve the space as well. But so far we have some of the equipment for the following

• Teaching Robotics
• Sewing machines.
• Stained glass, grinders, and equipment.
• Small carpentry tools and hand tools.
• Papercraft punches, stamps and card making
• Beads
• RC race tracks (both indoor and outdoor)
• Peanut scale airplanes- Ages 12-99

This is just the beginning. We haven’t even opened our doors yet! What ideas do you have?

How do I become a maker?

1. Let us know you’re interested! Email:  admin@networksdc.ca and give us your contact information. May include a small blurb on what you would like to do in the makerspace. As well if you have expertise or experience in something that you would be willing to share with others, let us know that too.
2. Come to an information meeting. Once we have your contact information, we can let you know the next meeting date is. You will learn about the makerspace movement and how it will look in our community. You can ask questions and share ideas. Networks over sees the program but the community of makers can make suggestions and have input on the space its self.
3. Register for the Makers Space and pay your fees (some sponsorships can be applied for)
4. Take the safety training offered for any equipment that we require training prior to using it.

How much will it cost to be a member?

This is still to be determined. We intend to keep fees as low as possible. We intend on offering different packages but the details on this are still being worked out. Because of physical distancing requirements, we will have to monitor the number of people in the space at one time and how we will keep the space clean.

What about COVID?

We will be asking people to be wearing masks in the maker space, washing their hands, and to sanitize their station before starting to work and at the end of their time in the space. There will be plastic barriers at the works stations so that the makers can still see each other and the cool things that people are working on. We will be limiting the number of people in the space so that people can follow physical distancing guidelines. Those who are not willing to follow these provincial Guidelines will be asked to leave.

How can I support this initiative?

You can support the makerspace in a few different ways.

1. Donate money. All financial contributions are eligible for a tax donation receipt

2. Donate Time. Many hands make light work. If you have some skills you could donate we would love to hear from you.

3. Donate Stuff. There are many things that we would like in the makerspace. Maybe you have some treasure that you no longer use that we could use. See the list below of things that we are looking for. More will be added to this list as we identify other needs. If you have items on this list that you would like to donate, we are probably interested. Items can be dropped off to our current location at 11501-17th street. If you have questions call 250-719-1010