Blog, Education, Featured, News
Old, failed, and broken 3D prints find new life in non-profit learning center for kids
Apr
As you might have imagined, the Wolfpack prints a LOT of things every single day. From sample parts for prospective customers to amazing side projects that we work on — and everything in between.
But what happens to the prints that fail, break, or are no longer used? Many are given away, some are taken home, and, yes, unfortunately some of those make it into the garbage, too. There are also a good number of 3D-printed sample parts that sit in boxes in our warehouse. No one really wants them, but we can’t bring ourselves to throw them away.
That’s why it felt like a match made in heaven when the Child Creativity Lab approached us. An independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Santa Ana, CA (just a few miles from Airwolf 3D), CCL’s mission is to “foster the next generation of critical thinkers, problem solvers, innovators, and leaders through hands-on creativity-enhancing exploration.”
As part of its mission, the CCL runs the CCL Depot for Creative Reuse, a program that specializes in creating pre-packaged STEM-Based Challenge Kits for kids. The kits are created by including reclaimed and reusable materials donated by local businesses and individuals. The Depot for Creative Reuse also uses these reclaimed materials to create fun “Mini-Creativity Stations” where kids can have fun exploring, learning, and creating. The CCL even offers “Materials” scholarships to give away these materials for free to educators, afterschool providers, and other community programs serving underprivileged children.
The Child Creativity Lab is a great way for us to reduce waste and donate 3D-printed parts that further a mission that is near and dear to our hearts — supporting STEM education in our community.
If you would like to donate 3D-printed parts or materials, please contact the Child Creativity Lab at (714)352-4380. Also, be sure to explore some of the other ways you can get involved in this great organization and take advantage of all the amazing benefits it offers to our community.
Child Creativity Lab
1815 E. Wilshire Avenue, Suite #906
Santa Ana, California 92705
Phone: 714-352-4380
Website: http://childcreativitylab.org/
Child Creativity Lab Depot for Creative Reuse Center
Materials Hours:
Monday – Friday: 11:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday: 11:00am – 4:00pm
Community Makerspace Open Studio Hours:
Wednesday: 2:00pm – 4:00pm
To RSVP, please email or call with your child’s name and age.
Field Trip Hours:
Monday – Saturday: By Appointment
Depot Volunteer Hours:
Wednesday: 9:30am – 11:30am
Friday: 2:30pm – 4:30pm