Katy McGuire, Library Services Coordinator, May 2024-Present
Favorite Tool: I love the chop saw! It was the first saw I learned how to use and it opened a whole new world of creative possibilities for me.
Favorite DIY Project: Learning how to tile my bathroom shower is high on the list of my favorite DIY projects. It was a labor of love with a high payoff. Sometimes I just go look at it when I need to remember I can do challenging things.
Why I wanted to get involved with the ToolBox Project: I am inspired by groups of people who create what they want to see in their communities. I am also an avid maker, learning how to tackle all kinds of projects, from 3-D paintings to house renovations. I feel really grateful to get to work with the ToolBox Project, and be around others who value sharing resources and skills with each other.
My Background: I grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 2016, I did a work/trade program with local farms across the country, and one of the stops landed me in Eugene. I fell in love with the unique people, fresh produce, and giant forests, so I stayed. Here, I have worked as a teacher, non-profit program manager, carpentry apprentice, and house painter.
Favorite Tool: I love the chop saw! It was the first saw I learned how to use and it opened a whole new world of creative possibilities for me.
Favorite DIY Project: Learning how to tile my bathroom shower is high on the list of my favorite DIY projects. It was a labor of love with a high payoff. Sometimes I just go look at it when I need to remember I can do challenging things.
Why I wanted to get involved with the ToolBox Project: I am inspired by groups of people who create what they want to see in their communities. I am also an avid maker, learning how to tackle all kinds of projects, from 3-D paintings to house renovations. I feel really grateful to get to work with the ToolBox Project, and be around others who value sharing resources and skills with each other.
My Background: I grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 2016, I did a work/trade program with local farms across the country, and one of the stops landed me in Eugene. I fell in love with the unique people, fresh produce, and giant forests, so I stayed. Here, I have worked as a teacher, non-profit program manager, carpentry apprentice, and house painter.
Kayla Clark, Library Services Coordinator, July 2022-May 2024
Favorite Tool: Flathead Screwdriver. I have found countless uses for a flathead screwdriver: opening things, prying, punching holes, and my favorite, getting to the weeds that grow between the sidewalk cracks.
Favorite DIY Project: I am particularly proud of the built-in shelves in my living room.
Why I wanted to get involved with the ToolBox Project: As a DIY-er, with a strong interest in sustainability, and a background working with nonprofits, the ToolBox Project was a natural fit. I appreciate that this organization builds connections in our community, and the practical benefits of sharing resources with our neighbors.
My Background: I'm a Eugene transplant from California. My professional background is in community relations, nonprofit administration, and events.
Favorite Tool: Flathead Screwdriver. I have found countless uses for a flathead screwdriver: opening things, prying, punching holes, and my favorite, getting to the weeds that grow between the sidewalk cracks.
Favorite DIY Project: I am particularly proud of the built-in shelves in my living room.
Why I wanted to get involved with the ToolBox Project: As a DIY-er, with a strong interest in sustainability, and a background working with nonprofits, the ToolBox Project was a natural fit. I appreciate that this organization builds connections in our community, and the practical benefits of sharing resources with our neighbors.
My Background: I'm a Eugene transplant from California. My professional background is in community relations, nonprofit administration, and events.
Anya Dobrowolski, ToolBox Co-Founder and Past Operations Manager
Favorite Tool: I love the cider press. It's the tool that builds community!
Favorite DIY Project: My hand-knitted wedding dress.
Why I wanted to get involved with the ToolBox Project: I wanted to create a place where neighbors can meet and help each other, and the tool library concept just makes so much sense for our community.
My Background: My professional experience emphasizes community planning and sustainable design, project and budget management, strategic planning and management, community engagement, and public process. In addition to the ToolBox Project, I currently work as a project management and sustainability research consultant. In 2016, I developed the Urban Sustainability Directors Network Sustainable Consumption Toolkit and I helped the City of Eugene to develop its Fix-It Fair program—which more recently the ToolBox Project has contracted to run for the City!
Favorite Tool: I love the cider press. It's the tool that builds community!
Favorite DIY Project: My hand-knitted wedding dress.
Why I wanted to get involved with the ToolBox Project: I wanted to create a place where neighbors can meet and help each other, and the tool library concept just makes so much sense for our community.
My Background: My professional experience emphasizes community planning and sustainable design, project and budget management, strategic planning and management, community engagement, and public process. In addition to the ToolBox Project, I currently work as a project management and sustainability research consultant. In 2016, I developed the Urban Sustainability Directors Network Sustainable Consumption Toolkit and I helped the City of Eugene to develop its Fix-It Fair program—which more recently the ToolBox Project has contracted to run for the City!