ADRIAN — High school students from the Lenawee Intermediate School District building trades program recently used their skills to benefit the community by constructing and donating three picnic tables and two benches for Share the Warmth of Lenawee, a local homeless shelter.
The project not only provided a practical contribution to the shelter’s outdoor space, but also showcased the students’ craftsmanship and commitment to giving back.
The building trades class at LISD offers students hands-on experience in carpentry and construction, preparing them for careers in the skilled trades. Under the guidance of instructor Scott Biggs, the students learned not only how to work with tools and materials but also how to use their skills to benefit others.
“This project provided students with the opportunity to put their classroom skills into action in a real-world setting,” Biggs said. “They not only learned how to build something functional and durable, but they also saw the positive impact that their work could have on people in need.”
The tables and benches were constructed from high-quality materials to withstand outdoor weather and heavy use. The students followed detailed plans to create sturdy, long-lasting pieces that would serve the needs of the homeless community in Lenawee County.
Share the Warmth of Lenawee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The outdoor seating will provide a comfortable place for shelter residents to enjoy meals, socialize, or simply relax in the fresh air.
Shannon DeSloover, executive director of Share the Warmth of Lenawee, expressed her gratitude for the students’ contribution.
“This donation is a true gift for our guests. It’s not just about the tables and benches — it’s about the thoughtfulness and effort behind them,” DeSloover said. “We are so grateful to these students for their hard work and for making our outdoor space more welcoming and functional for the people we serve.”
The students gained experience in woodworking and construction, but they also learned about the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness. Many students found the project to be an eye-opening experience.
“It feels really good to know that something we built is going to help people who really need it,” said Joshua Thomas, a Tech Center student from Adrian High School. “This project taught me a lot about teamwork, craftsmanship, and the impact we can have on others.”
The building of the picnic tables and benches was a culmination of several weeks of work, with students involved in every step of the process — from measuring and cutting wood to assembling the pieces and finishing the surfaces. The effort required collaboration and problem-solving.
“These young people are developing not only as skilled tradespeople but as community-minded individuals,” Biggs said. “I’m very proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
