Our Target

 

Build Repair Grow is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Western Massachusetts that began in February 2020. The mission of Build Repair Grow is to provide young people with training in practical skills critical for developing individual resiliency, problem-solving, and self-sufficiency. We do this through leading workshops in growing and cooking food, basic carpentry, sewing, and bike repair to students in elementary through high school.

Program Rationale

 

• • The elimination of home economics and shop classes from school curricula has created a gap in practical, skill-based, experiential learning that Build Repair Grow will help fill.
  • Build Repair Grow addresses several of the needs outlined in regional Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) reports, Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) reports, and the Massachusetts Youth Health Survey, with a specific focus in Franklin County and the North Quabbin Region of the state.
  • Build Repair Grow decreases idle time during out of school hours by providing meaningful programming to youth who have aged out of traditional child care programs yet are too young to work and continues to teach these skills along with leadership and internship opportunities to teens.

Strategic Plan

Build Repair Grow Strategic Goals:

• • Increase practical skills and self-efficacy among Hampshire, Franklin, and Hampden County youth.
  • Increase access for schools and participants with barriers to acquiring the skills targeted by BRG, providing programs in an equitable way.
  • Increase leadership skills among young participants.
• Check out our 2020-2021 Strategic Plan here..