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Annual MakeHaven Member Meeting

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Annual MakeHaven Member Meeting

Reflecting on 2025 & Building the Future

 

Join us for our annual member gathering. This is your chance to see the "inner workings" of MakeHaven, celebrate a year of successes, and talk directly with the Board of Directors and committee members about where we are headed next.

The format this year is designed for dialogue. After a brief high-level state of the organization, we will move into topical breakout stations where you can dive into the details, provide feedback, and learn what is happening in our committees.


The Agenda

1. Director’s Keynote: The State of the Space

Presented by J.R. Logan (10 minutes) A high-level look at the "Big Picture" metrics from 2025 and our strategic direction for the coming year.

2. Breakout Sessions - Topical (2 x 20 minute sessions)

We will transition into four dedicated stations hosted by committee leaders. Grab a snack, rotate through the stations, and bring your questions and ideas. It is suggested reference space data at makehaven.org/kpis  and our plan at makehaven.org/plan/2030. Topics align with our standing committees:

Each group should select a scribe to take notes.

In person attendees:

  • Facility, Safety, and Accessibility: The Tool Lending Library move, shop layout improvements, and space accessibility.
    (Meet in: Metal Shop Table)

  • Resource Development and Finance:: Moving toward sustainable fundraising initiatives and long-term goals. Budget transparency and long-term financial sustainability.
    (Meet in: Startup Room Across from Store)

  • Outreach & Member Retention and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Growth strategies and enhancing the current member experience and Community engagement strategies and ensuring a welcoming environment for all.
    (Meet in: front seating area)

  • Education and Programming: Workshops, badge stats, and new learning pathways.
    (Meet in: Back tables)

Online Attendees:

  •  Open Eneded Group discussion covering all areas online. 

Discussion Guide: 

Breakout Discussion Prompts

Please focus your conversation around these three questions:

  1. What priorities should MakeHaven focus on over the next 3–5 years?

  2. Is there one change that could improve the member experience in the next 6–12 months?

  3. Is there an operational change or improvement you would be willing to help lead?

Each group should identify a scribe and record:

  • 1 Strategic Priority

  • 1 Near-Term Improvement

  • 1 Member-Led Action Idea

Optional reference materials (for those who want deeper context):

 


 

3. Community Reconvene (10 Minute debreif)

We’ll gather back together as a full group to share the most interesting ideas from the stations and answer any final "big picture" questions.


Important Details

  • Quiet Shop: For the comfort of all attendees, please no loud machinery use during the meeting hours.

  • Hybrid Access: A dedicated online host will ensure virtual attendees can participate in the presentation and submit questions. The online group will continue with its own moderated breakout discussion.

  • Advance Questions: If you submnit questions in advacne we will have oppounity to be more thoughtful, and collect data. Please feedback via member survey.

When
Thursday March 5th, 2026 from  6:00 PM to  7:30 PM
Location
MakeHaven
770 Chapel Street
New Haven, CT 06510
United States
Participation
Participation Method
In Person - Main Space $0.00
Online Participation $0.00

Notices

Learn about our event policies, such as cancellations and inclement weather: Event Policies Page
Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about workshops and events Event and Workshop FAQ.

 

Accessibility

Our facilities undergo periodic reviews to maximize ADA compliance. We offer accessible bathrooms, elevators, and wide walkways. In tool usage, we aim for universal access and work individually to adapt tools for safe usage as necessary. If you anticipate needing an adaptation to participate in this event or have further questions, please contact us at events@makehaven.org.