Kamloops Makerspace like all Makerspaces or non-profits in general have ups and downs. Unfortunately, Kamloops Makerspace is in one of these lulls. Funds are dangerously low and so is participation in the tasks that our space needs to succeed.
Kamloops Makerspace is 100% volunteer-run. This means every single function from paying bills to cleaning toilets is done by volunteers. The tasks we all need to be completed so we can enjoy our creative space together are being done by a smaller and smaller group of people. This has greatly diminished their morale and willingness to continue to contribute.
Kamloops Makerspace is funded primarily through memberships. While fundraising, partnerships, and the occasional grant is a huge help. They are dependent on volunteer capacity. Due to the effects of the above volunteer deficit those who typically organized fundraising, grants, etc. are no longer able to do so. Kamloops Makerspace needs a minimum of 50 members paying each month to break even. We are currently around 30.
We need to seriously talk about the future of the Kamloops Makerspace. If there is no interest from the membership and the community at large to keep the Makerpsace alive we should consider closing the space. If there is we need all of you reading this to consider doing the following:
Keep your membership active.
We understand that times are tough and people are often too busy to make it to the makerspace. Please keep your membership active if you can.
Donate.
There are donation boxes in every room. That money stays in each room to improve each space. There is a box on the door of the office for donations to go into general funds to keep the space going. Our website has a donation page set up similarly. Now is a crucial time to donate if you can.
Be an ambassador.
If you are a member please give friends tours, tell co-workers, and encourage others to join or donate. If you know a former member, reconnect and encourage them to come back. Post on social media and our Forum
Clean the Makerspace.
Everyone has a different threshold to dirtiness. Leaving the space a mess discourages members from joining or staying. It also limits our ability to work with sponsors or partners. Every member is responsible for cleaning the makerspace. Not just their spot but the whole space. There are lists of tasks in each room that take about 5 minutes each to complete. Do as many as you can. If you are unable to do the other things mentioned here this is a huge help.
Be a conscientious Maker.
We are a community of creative people of all types and backgrounds. Consider how your interactions with others affect them. Snide comments, aggressiveness, rudeness, and gatekeeping discourage new makers and volunteers alike. Please consider the criticism or suggestions no matter how intended can discourage other members.
Limit storage.
We have limited space to store members' items. If you are not going to use something right away. Take it home. Members who do not have space to store work often leave. Do not store things long-term.
Don't leave things everywhere.
Do not store anything in any place not directly intended for member storage. Leaving things on tools, tables, and on the floor discourages other members from using the space. Drying items should be moved as soon as possible and not left anywhere that could impact another member.
Participate in meetings.
Members can share their input and find out other ways to help at our monthly Members Meeting on the first Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM. They will be in person at the Makerspace starting June 2nd
Hang out.
We have not been able to do this for a while due to COVID. However, now is the time. We are a community of creative people. Share what you are working on, passionate about, or just watch cool maker videos in the lounge.
Kamloops Makerspace will only survive to serve our community if every member and supporter does what they can to make our space an energetic and fun place to create.