Valley Makers Association

The Valley Makers Association (VMA) is a nonprofit educational organization based in Winchester, Virginia. Established in 2015, it is dedicated to fostering a community environment where members can learn, collaborate, and innovate through various forms of fabrication and creative pursuits.

Mission and Vision

At its core, VMA aims to create and sustain an educational environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and creativity among community members. This is achieved by providing access to shared tools and equipment, facilitating learning through classes and workshops, and hosting events and seminars that enrich the community's understanding of fabrication and related skills[3].

Activities and Programs

The association offers a range of activities designed to support its mission:

• Membership: VMA provides monthly membership plans that grant access to a shared workspace equipped with various tools and equipment. This setup is conducive to creatives and entrepreneurs looking to develop their projects and businesses[1].
• Education and Workshops: VMA organizes affordable classes open to the public, focusing on teaching new skills and supporting artisans in monetizing their crafts. The organization also welcomes potential instructors interested in sharing their expertise[1].
• Community Engagement: The association engages with the community through events and online forums. For instance, it hosts a weekly "Maker Monday" session on social media platforms where members can share their ongoing projects[1].

Impact and Community Role

By supporting education and innovation in the Shenandoah Valley, VMA plays a significant role in fostering local creativity and entrepreneurship. Its emphasis on collaboration and skill-sharing contributes to the development of a vibrant community of makers and artisans[3].

VMA is recognized as a registered nonprofit organization with the EIN 47-4673954[2][5].

[1] https://www.valleymakers.com [2] https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/474673954 [3] https://www.valleymakers.com/our-vision [4] https://www.instagram.com/valleymakers/ [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/47-4673954