Tools and equipment are available for rental, free of charge. Ben Tierney
Part of the new "tool library" complements of GMCA. Ben Tierney
Jeff Havens at the official ribbon cutting for the new tool library with Sharon Mortensen, MACF President & CEO and other community members. Ben Tierney
The Greater Michigan Construction Academy (GMCA) recently revealed their latest project: A free lending library filled with tools that anyone can use for their home improvement projects.
Jeff Havens is the local resident who had the idea to bring the concept to Midland after seeing it successfully done in other communities. He convinced GMCA to house and manage the library, and ended up writing a grant request to the Midland Area Community Foundation (MACF), who funded the project.
“This will help those who may not have access to tools otherwise and help to develop entrepreneurism,” said Sharon Mortensen, MACF President & CEO. “We are always looking for great ideas that will be transformational.”
Several tools were purchased with grant dollars, and organizers hope more come through donations from community members who have tools they no longer need or use.
“A lot of tools are around the county in somebody’s garage,” said Havens. “When you clean out your garage, bring the tools here.”
Tools are available to borrow from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday. Training is also being provided free of charge. To contact GMCA with tool donations or to request a tool library card, call 989-832-8879.
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