Who We Are
We are the first Open Innovation Tech Space, a space where individuals come together to create their own journey of innovation, collaboration, creativity, and learning. Whether you’re exploring traditional or cutting-edge technologies, you’ll find a supportive community that shares knowledge and experiences.
We Believe
Collaborative environments foster faster learning, increased productivity, and more enjoyable experiences. Youth become lifelong learners when they work and play with parents, peers and other age groups. Our members create intentional spaces where individuals of all ages can fail, learn, and succeed together.
Unleashing Innovation in The triangle
What is an Open Innovation Tech Space?
Open Organization
The Forge exists as members create the space they would like to have. Our favorite saying is, “at the Forge, anyone can start a shared google doc” – launching a new idea into the world and into reality.
Innovation
At the heart of our ethos lies innovation — from cutting-edge technology to a progressive mentoring/ learning model and advanced community learning. Setting your own pace is easier when you explore the edges.
Technology
Technology is the backbone of what we do. In the 21st century, it stands as a modern-day craft, seamlessly woven into nearly every aspect of our daily lives. Being able to navigate the intricacies of the tech world is not just advantageous but essential for embracing the opportunities and challenges of the world around us.
Space
Within The Forge, you discover more than just a physical space; it’s a place with a welcoming community that celebrates the highs and lows of learning new technology and leadership skills. Having a consistent home base is not just comforting; it is truly empowering.
Age is no barrier at The Forge
Central to our ethos is the recognition that every individual, no matter your age, possesses valuable skills and insights.
In this informal learning environment, individuals from all walks of life have the opportunity to develop new skills, enhance collaboration abilities, experience diverse cultural perspectives, and embrace personal growth in unexpected ways. It is the collective dedication of our members fostering an inclusive community that brings The Forge to life.
The Empowerment HUB is an all-encompassing program
Our Empowerment HUB is designed to empower individuals from elementary school age to adulthood. This multi-year initiative focuses on nurturing leadership and mentoring skills that can be applied to navigate any facet of life successfully. It stands as one of our flagship programs, offering a comprehensive journey that starts with the development of turning knowledge into technical expertise, and extends to harnessing public speaking opportunities or hands-on program designing.
A model that supports multi-age learning
Over many years, our founders have developed an internationally recognized learning model. The Discover, Explore, Learn, Lead (D-ELL) model supports learning for all ages. This model focuses on:
- Intrinsic motivation: Encouraging a genuine desire for continuous learning.
- Courage to step out of one’s comfort zone during the learning process.
- Developing leadership skills while working at the edge of one’s capabilities.
Want to learn more?
Visit Us
Join us at our Open Innovation public events for a closer look at how you can engage in STEAM!
We offer tours at Family Open Forge on Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00pm and Adult Midweek Making on Wednesdays (18+) from 6:30 to 9:30pm.
Email us at [email protected] if you have any questions!
Who runs programs and events?
Our programs and events are fully volunteer-led! Volunteers might be technology enthusiasts, learners, educators, professionals, artists, and community builders – passing their knowledge onto others in a multi-age learning environment.
How do I join a Forge FIRST team?
We require all students, parents and coaches to be a member of The Forge. Teams are kept small to encourage hands-on collaboration. Check out the FIRST page for more info!
What does it mean to be a member?
To keep costs down, we count on our members to dedicate their time and donations. This might mean utilizing your skills to build new organization systems around The Forge, upgrading software for better member experience, cleaning up toys, sweeping, matching donations through your company, becoming a monthly donor, and so much more!
Our members commitment to The Forge is priceless and through every member’s engagement, we are able to further our vision to provide a family-friendly community where all ages can access STEAM at an affordable rate!
How much is membership?
Our Family Membership is $350 annually from July 1st to June 30th the following year. This covers the whole household, whether that’s two people or eight people! Our membership for one adult is $10 annually for the same period of time.
Are there additional fees?
Yes! We do have additional fees when you or your youth participates in a program, such as FIRST, camps, and workshops. Though, compared to the rest of the market, our program fees are at a more affordable rate.
How do I join?
All prospective members must join us at an Open Innovation public event, held weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Our members work on various projects and it’s the best time to see what we’re up to and what might pique your interest!
Partners
Our community needs strong leaders who understand STEAM (STEM+Art). Forges create STEAM leaders. Forge programs support thousands in STEAM. There is more demand than we are currently able to meet.We thank you for being part of building The Forge Initiative to the next level of community support for STEAM.
Thank you to our current supporters!