Help us Build a Better Tomorrow
A note from our Executive Director:
“For over 30 years our programs have broken cycles of poverty and trauma by empowering youth with vocational, entrepreneurial, and life skills. This success requires more than just skills - this is why we choose to focus on empowerment, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Our kids discover what they’re capable of, adapt to and recover from adversity, and pursue new opportunities with creativity and resourcefulness. Time and time again we’ve seen these traits launch our kids into exciting and rewarding futures. Something else that’s as true as ever? Your donations are what makes this transformative work possible. I hope as you read through these pages you feel two things:
1) these kids critically need support and tools for success and 2) You can do something about this by donating to Kids Making It right now!”
Here’s to lots more sawdust and success!
~ Kevin Blackburn
Xavier's Story
**Xavier’s name has been changed for privacy.**
Thirteen-year-old Xavier lives in public housing with his mom and two brothers. Their home is always dark, the curtains closed to avoid the dangers outside—break-ins, stray bullets, and the constant threat of gang violence. His mom works multiple low-wage jobs, leaving little time to help Xavier with school. He struggles to concentrate on homework amidst the chaos of sirens, gunfire, and hunger. With only one set of clothes, he faces relentless bullying at school. Though he dreams of escaping his circumstances, the weight of daily survival and fear leaves him hopeless, unsure if he’ll ever be more than a statistic.
That all began to change when Xavier discovered Kids Making It (KMI). Initially drawn in by an outreach program in his neighborhood, he was invited to the shop, where he encountered a welcoming space filled with tools, snacks, and support. The staff not only taught him woodworking but also provided a quiet place to study and genuinely cared about his well-being. For the first time, Xavier felt seen and valued. His confidence soared when he sold his handcrafted items and received a $125 paycheck, proof that his hard work and talent could open new doors.
A year later, Xavier’s life looks different. KMI picks him up from school, connects him with mentors, and takes him on field trips. His grades have improved, and he’s building a brighter future filled with hope and ambition. While his challenges haven’t disappeared, Xavier now envisions a life beyond his circumstances—a life he can be proud of. This is why we do what we do, and we need your support to continue transforming lives like Xavier’s.
Did you know?
However...
Your Efforts.
Your Impacts.
Thanks to your generosity...
Today:
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Regular Day = 15+ Kids
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2 Locations
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2 Vans, picking up from 6 schools and dropping kids home after KMI
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26+ field trips, as far as Raleigh!
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1000+ total students served annually!
Future Goals:
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Regular Day = 30+ Kids
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A 24-foot Woodshop on Wheels
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Additional Retail Space
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Even More Field Trips
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2nd Floor Castle Street Expansion
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The KMI Skills & Innovation Campus!
"2024 concludes on a high note with tremendous energy and momentum to carry Kids Making It into 2025. A highlight for 2024 has been the fulfillment of a dream to expand our presence beyond our Castle Street headquarters.
Without the support of all of our donors, this success would not be possible.”
~ Ben Grey
Board Chairman
