Located in Wilmington, Kids Making It is a nonprofit organization that has been empowering youth across Southeastern North Carolina for over three decades. By combining the art of woodworking with mentorship, academic support, and career readiness, Kids Making It helps young people unlock their full potential—one handcrafted project at a time.
Their impact on the lives of youth and the broader community has earned them recognition from Copiers Plus as part of our 40 Years of Caring campaign. In partnership with Kyocera, we’re proud to contribute $500 toward their mission.
Kids Making It offers a variety of programs that serve youth holistically, helping them grow academically, personally, and professionally. At the heart of their work is their Afterschool Woodworking Program—a flagship initiative. This program combines hands-on learning with mentorship to help kids develop skills in woodworking and craftsmanship in a structured, supportive environment.
Another core initiative is their Skilled Trades Program, where students have the opportunity to advance their skills in carpentry and other trades, giving them foundational knowledge and hands-on experience that can lead to entry-level job opportunities. Kids Making It also offers an Academic Mentorship Program, which provides tutoring and teaches essential life skills, while their Outreach Program brings their life-changing services to more youth in need.
These initiatives are not just about woodworking—they’re about self-worth, discipline, and creating brighter futures. As Julie Phillips, Associate Director of Kids Making It, shares:
“By supporting Kids Making It, you're investing in the future of young people, empowering them to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Your donation not only changes individual lives—it strengthens the community and sets the stage for lasting, positive change in North Carolina.”
As Phillips recalls, one of the most inspiring stories to come out of the program is that of Jayden, a 13-year-old who entered the workshop with little confidence and few resources. With the guidance of a mentor and steady hands-on experience, he began to develop both technical skills and belief in himself. His turning point came when a piece he crafted was sold in the Kids Making It gift shop, where students earn 100% of the profits from their creations. The experience of seeing strangers value his work gave Jayden a renewed sense of purpose.
From that moment on, Jayden pursued woodworking with determination, eventually setting his sights on becoming an electrician through the organization’s Skilled Trades Program. With support from tutors and a clear career path ahead, Jayden transformed not only his outlook—but his future.
Contributions like the $500 donation from Copiers Plus’s 40 Years of Caring initiative, allow Kids Making It to continue empowering youth, teaching valuable skills, and creating brighter futures for kids in the community.
“This $500 award is not just a donation—it’s an investment in our organization, our mission, and most importantly, the amazing community we serve,” said Phillips. “Every dollar goes directly toward empowering the kids in our community—helping them build confidence, learn valuable skills, and create a path toward a successful future.”
Kids Making It deeply appreciates all forms of support, but they rely most on community generosity. Here are a few ways that you can support their mission:
Discover more about Kids Making Its mission on their website and follow their Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn pages for the latest news.
Since our start in 1985, Copiers Plus has proudly partnered with Kyocera to help North Carolina businesses and organizations streamline operations through innovative office technology solutions. From document management to printer and copier leasing, our goal is to empower productivity and support success across the state—with service that goes the extra mile.
This strong sense of service has been part of the Copiers Plus DNA from the beginning. Through the 40 Years of Caring initiative, we’re expanding that mission—highlighting and supporting nonprofit organizations that are making a real difference in communities across North Carolina.
Over the coming months, we’ll be spotlighting each of the 40 selected organizations right here on our blog. Stay tuned to learn more about their inspiring work and how you can get involved in supporting their efforts.
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