Help us keep thousands of tools working hard for Chicago communities!
Windy City ToolBank provides tools and equipment to nonprofits, schools, community groups, faith-based organizations, government agencies, and other organizations working throughout the Chicago area. Those tools get used for everything from community gardens and neighborhood cleanups to construction projects, events, disaster response, and more.
With all that use, our tools need some love!
We're looking for volunteers to help us clean, inspect, maintain, and when appropriate, repair tools and equipment so they're ready for the next organization that needs them.
What might I work on?
Depending on your experience, interests, and abilities, projects may include:
- Cleaning tools and equipment after they are returned
- Inspecting tools for damage, wear, or missing components
- Testing basic tool functions
- Removing dirt, debris, labels, tape, or other materials
- Organizing tool parts and accessories
- Identifying tools that need additional maintenance or repair
- Performing basic preventative maintenance
- Replacing simple parts or components
- Helping troubleshoot damaged or non-working equipment
- Organizing the ToolBank's repair and maintenance area
- Documenting maintenance or repair needs
- Researching replacement parts, manuals, or repair information
- Preparing repaired tools to return to inventory
You don't need to know how to repair tools to volunteer!
There is plenty of cleaning, inspection, organization, and basic maintenance work that doesn't require previous experience. We'll show you what you need to know.
Already know your way around tools, small engines, electrical equipment, carpentry equipment, or repairs? We'd especially love to put those skills to use.
Tasks will be matched to each volunteer's experience and abilities. Volunteers will only perform repair or maintenance work they are comfortable and qualified to complete.
Want to volunteer regularly?
Even better. Maintaining a large lending inventory is an ongoing job, so there are always tools that could use some attention.
Regular volunteers can learn more about our inventory over time and may have opportunities to take on more specialized maintenance and repair projects.
Need documented volunteer hours?
Windy City ToolBank welcomes volunteers completing community-service hours for SNAP work requirements, school, service programs, or other purposes.
Volunteer hours completed through this opportunity can be tracked and verified through Serve Illinois. Please let us know about any documentation or reporting requirements when you begin volunteering.
