Program Summary

WE UP “Trash to Treasure” is a hands-on creative reuse and design program that introduces participants to sustainable making, tool literacy, and collaborative problem-solving through the transformation of discarded and low-cost materials into functional art. Over six weeks, participants design and construct a custom canvas—progressing from concept development and material selection to construction, finishing, and public exhibition.

The program blends environmental education with practical skill-building, teaching safe tool use, basic construction techniques, and creative expression while reinforcing teamwork, planning, and confidence. By reframing “waste” as a resource, Trash to Treasure promotes sustainability, creativity, and agency through making.

Program Description

Structure: 6-week, project-based creative reuse program
Location: Timbuktu ATL, Atlanta, GA
Participants: 12 Youth, ages
Staff: Program Coordinator, Skilled Maker/Instructors, Youth Intern(s)

Program Highlights 

• Creative Reuse and Sustainability Education
• Hands-on tool literacy and construction skills
• Team collaboration and peer learning
• Functional Art Creation
• Public Exhibition of Completed Works

Curriculum Highlights

• Design Thinking and Creative Planning- Participants begin by gathering inspiration and developing original concepts, translating their ideas into sketches for a custom lamp design. Emphasis is placed on thoughtful material selection, creative reuse, and understanding how reclaimed materials can be transformed into functional and expressive objects.
• Tool Literacy and Safety- Instruction emphasizes personal safety, responsible tool handling, and shared workspace accountability throughout the build process.
• Tools and Techniques- Participants gain hands-on experience using adhesives and sealants, screws and drills, hammers and nails, blades and saws, and painting and surface-finishing techniques. These skills support both structural integrity and aesthetic quality in their final projects.
• Construction and Fabrication- The program encourages iterative design, allowing participants to troubleshoot challenges and refine their work as they build.
• Finishing and Aesthetic Expression
  Participants complete their projects through painting, staining, sealing, and embellishment, learning how to balance personal style with functional design. This final phase reinforces attention to detail, craftsmanship, and creative confidence.

Program Schedule

• Week 1: Introduction

• • • Team activity: build together using Dollar Tree Jenga Kits & wood glue
    • Tool safety training and proper usage instruction

• Week 2: Planning & Material Gathering 

• • • Finalizing Design Concepts
    • Sourcing & Selecting Materials

• Week 3: Construction

• • • Building Lamp Structures
    • Guided tool use and assembly

• Week 4: Painting & Finishing

• • • Surface preparation
    • Painting, Staining, and Sealing techniques

• Week 5: Accessories & Embellishment

• • • Final Design Adjustments

• Week 6: Exhibition & Showcase

• • Participant Reflection & Community Viewing

Project Goals and Objectives

Goal 1: Promote environmental awareness through creative reuse

• Objective 1.1: Engage all participants in transforming discarded or low-cost materials into functional art pieces.

Goal 2: Build practical tool and construction skills

• Objective 2.1: Train participants in safe, proper use of basic hand and power tools.

Goal 3: Strengthen creativity, confidence, and collaboration

• Objective 3.1: Support participants in completing an original lamp design through teamwork and guided instruction.

By Program Completion

• Skill Development (>85%): Participants demonstrate safe tool use, basic construction techniques, and design planning skills.

• Environmental Stewardship (>80%): Increased understanding of reuse, waste reduction, and sustainable material practices.

• Creative Confidence (>85%): Participants complete a functional, self-designed lamp and articulate their creative process.

• Stakeholder Satisfaction (>90%): Positive feedback from participants, instructors, and community viewers.

Evaluation Plan

• Pre/post participant surveys measuring confidence, skill acquisition, and sustainability awareness
• Instructor observation of tool use and project completion
• Documentation through photos and exhibition records
• Participant reflection and feedback following the final showcase