Opportunity
Knox Makers exists to promote and enable making as both a hobby and means of self-expression. Our fundamental purpose is to provide opportunity through:
- Suitable, abundant physical space for making
- A comprehensive selection of tools and equipment
- A peer-learning environment that fosters growth
- Minimal financial barriers to participation
- Commitment to open technology and accessible resources
Focus
Knox Makers is exclusively dedicated to creativity, craft, self-actualization, and lifelong learning. We deliberately avoid engagement on divisive issues such as religion and politics, asking community members to keep personal views private. Our goal is to attract the broadest diversity of makers while ensuring everyone feels both safe and welcome.
Volunteerism
No member receives compensation for their contributions, ensuring that authority remains uncorrupted by profit motives. Responsibility is distributed among the membership, with everyone expected to contribute in their own way. This shared ownership model strengthens our community bonds.
Community
Knox Makers emphasizes positivity and mutual support, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for disrespectful behavior, discrimination, or bigotry of any kind.
Non-Commercialism
The organization is self-supporting and independently operated, avoiding corporate endorsements and sponsorships. Members may not advertise to or solicit other members for commercial purposes. Commercial manufacturing is prohibited.
Privacy
Participation should never require members to substantially compromise their personal privacy.
We collect minimal information about our members and safeguard whatever data we do gather with care and discretion.
Sharp & Electrified
We prioritize maximizing workshop capabilities over risk avoidance. Our spaces feature powerful tools and equipment, with members taking full responsibility for their own safety and proper tool usage.
Fun
Whether you’re teaching or learning, leading or following, Knox Makers should always be an enjoyable experience. We embrace creativity over bureaucracy and encourage a spirit of playful experimentation and discovery.