Idea Forge Creators Space – Project Imo https://projectimo.org Connecting youth and communities, one experience with nature at a time. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 19:53:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Launch of the STEAM Futures Workshop Series https://projectimo.org/launch-of-the-steam-futures-workshop-series/ Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:47:24 +0000 https://projectimo.org/?p=15113

STEAM Futures: Hands-On Youth Workshops at Project Imo’s Idea Forge Creators Space

STEAM Futures is a hands-on workshop series launched by Project Imo to expand access to creative and technical learning for youth ages 8–18.

Hosted at the Idea Forge Creators Space which is our maker space. The series blends art, design, engineering, technology, and media through immersive, project-based experiences that help young people build confidence as makers and problem-solvers.

The program emphasizes learning by doing. Connecting traditional creative skills with modern maker technologies in a supportive, mentor-rich environment.

About the STEAM Futures Workshop Series

The STEAM Futures Workshop Series includes eight half-day, in-person workshops paired with open maker space hours and a culminating community showcase.

Each workshop introduces accessible tools and techniques: such as sewing, digital design, simple machines, electronics, 3D printing, laser engraving, and media creation. All the while encouraging experimentation, iteration, and creative expression.

Youth may attend individual workshops or participate across multiple sessions, building skills over time while exploring a range of STEAM pathways.

Program Structure & Schedule

The STEAM Futures series is designed to balance structured learning with flexible creative time:

  • 8 half-day STEAM Futures workshops (January–February 2026)
  • 8 half-day open maker space sessions for continued project work and practice
  • 1 STEAM Futures Community Showcase (March 2026)
  • Workshops are hosted at Project Imo’s Idea Forge Creators Space in Willimantic, CT

Youth participants attend free of charge, removing common barriers to participation in STEAM learning opportunities.

Tools, Technologies, and Creative Pathways

Throughout the STEAM Futures Workshop Series, participants engage with a wide range of creative tools and maker technologies, including:

  • Sewing machines and textile tools
  • Craft cutters and digital illustration software
  • Simple circuits, LEDs, and motion components
  • 3D printers and introductory modeling tools
  • Laser engraving and cutting equipment
  • Cameras, audio tools, and basic media production setups

These tools are introduced gradually, helping youth connect creative ideas to real-world processes used in design, engineering, and media fields.

Community Access & Program Support

The STEAM Futures Workshop Series is made possible through support from the Liberty Bank Foundation, which ensures youth can participate at no cost, and Eversource, whose support helped equip and enhance the Idea Forge Creators Space.

eversource logo

By investing in both programming and infrastructure, these partners help Project Imo create inclusive learning environments where young people can explore, create, and grow.

For More Information:

Explore more about Project Imo and the Idea Forge Creators Space.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, or Linkedin

Send us a message at teamimo@projectimo.org or fill out a form on out website!

Call us (860) 786-5799 to ask how to get involved.

We are building a brighter future for our youth and our community. Join us in this mission to nurture the next generation of leaders!

UPCOMING STEAM FUTURES WORKSHOPS

Events

Today

List of events in Photo View

]]> PROJECT IMO IS MOVING! https://projectimo.org/project-imo-is-moving/ Sat, 16 Aug 2025 13:45:24 +0000 https://projectimo.org/?p=13509 EXCITING NEWS, WE’RE MOVING!


Project Imo’s Base Camp and Idea Forge Creators Space will be temporarily closed while we move to a larger facility in downtown Willimantic, CT. We will reopen September 1st with our new fall calendar of Idea Forge and Teen Center Hours as well as a HUGE new fall program calendar of community events.


We are thrilled to be moving to 54 North St, Willimantic, CT, 06226 and sharing an exciting new space with our partners at NAFI CT.


During our move, our Idea Forge Creators Space and general open programming will be closed to relocate. Idea Forge members will have limited access to certain workstations. If you have a specific project you’re working on, let us know and we’ll arrange to make the move as minimally disruptive as possible. Your membership will be extended for 2 weeks to accommodate the interruption.


Special programs such as the Windham Prevention Coalition Youth Leadership Council Summit on Monday, August 25th will continue as planned at our Base Camp facility and the space at our amazing partners, The River Room.


To learn more, email teamimo@projectimo.org or call 860-786-5799.


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