Vidette Makes, a Valparaiso based nonprofit, has set their sights on opening a physical location to host a makerspace and classroom. The group started as a small band of friends meeting monthly to discuss creative, technology based ideas. Before long they identified a need within the community for a shared space where group members could gather and make their ideas into reality. Fast forward through the pandemic years and the group has made significant strides. Officially established as a 501C3 nonprofit in 2020, they continue to grow in numbers and are steadfast on acquiring a physical location. The president of Vidette Makes, Adam Johnson, and some associates continue fine tuning the proposed business plan and have launched a market research survey at videttemakes.org that they would love the readers of this article to participate in. Meanwhile, Chad Copeland the vice president and director of programs and events for Vidette Makes has nearly booked the entire year’s upcoming events. The schedule includes: field trips to places like Urschel Labs, Valpo Hot Shop, and Snake River Forge blacksmithing studio. Other events like a quarterly Show & Tell, and their main event the “Makers’ Monthly Meetup” are fantastic ways to make friends and learn about what members of the group are building and are interested in. All events are currently open to the public via RSVP on Meetup.com.
“The group does not currently charge for membership, Though, that may change in the future once we establish our business plan” stated Chad. “We might not be looking to make profit, but we want to have some really interesting and useful tools available to our members… not to mention a fantastic, big, clean and safe working environment somewhere central to Valparaiso. We hope to be a resource for the local community, bridging the gap between the desire to make and learn, and the expenses of tools and education. We have social programs and projects in the planning phase, where our members would offer opportunities to underprivileged young people, underserved groups like homeschoolers, and anyone trying to gain better employment. Ultimately, we wish to simply be good stewards of knowledge and opportunity. It’s all about networking and fun with learning. We hope Valparaiso will embrace our mission, and the community supports this endeavor.”