Makers with a Cause
Vaughan Public Libraries
Innovation Synopsis
Makers with a Cause program was designed for teens to come together in the library and express themselves creatively while creating resources, such as birthday kits and greeting cards for the community during the Holiday season.
Challenge/Opportunity
This program provided an opportunity for teens to be empowered and do something meaningful while giving back to the vulnerable groups of the community that need support and resources. We have also ran past programs and initiatives that were focused on community engagement and resulted in success, along with partnerships being formed, so we were anticipating that this opportunity would be successful as well.
Key Elements of Innovation
As part of our Annual Food Drive, the community donated birthday-related supplies, such as cake mix and decorations. The library purchased some missing supplies. These supplies were used in creating birthday kits for families and light-up greeting cards for seniors. The birthday kits were created to support families who may not be able to enjoy special treats and occasions due to high costs. The light-up greeting cards were created to brighten up the senior community at the Sisters of our Lady of Mount Carmel.
Achieved Outcomes
The program was held on December 10th with 21 participants. A total of 25 birthday kits were made for families in need and were given to the Vaughan Food Bank. The library community has been giving back to the Vaughan Food Bank for many years with the Food Drive, and the birthday kits were a new addition to donate in 2022. The light-up greeting cards were delivered to the Sisters of our Lady of Mount Carmel. Both organizations were greatly appreciative of the support and resources.