Carlos' fundraiser for the Truckee Roundhouse

Hi, I’m Carlos, and I’m excited to support the Truckee Roundhouse through the Give Back Tahoe campaign! By now, you probably already know about the Truckee Roundhouse and our amazing mission to make Making accessible to all. But if you are one of the weirdos that doesn't know about us yet, here you go a quick summary of some of the things we do!

1. Memberships, Classes, and Mentorship: Access to five workshops (Wood, Metal, Textiles, Ceramics, Technology) equipped with advanced tools like CNC machines, laser cutters, and 3D printers. Members can work independently or join group classes.

2. Community Events: Inclusive programs, including partnerships with schools and nonprofits, LGBTQIA+ craft events, Annual Maker Show, nd many others

3. Affordability and Accessibility: Subsidized membership rates and scholarships to ensure everyone can explore their creative potential, regardless of financial circumstances.

Head to https://www.truckeeroundhouse.org/ to learn everything you need to know.

Now to the part where I tell you (just a little bit) about me, how I ended up involved with the Roundhouse and where I ask you, with cute cat eyes, to consider donating (whatever amount you can, every $ counts!) to our mission!

(For the lazy, you can get the short version by reading the bolded text ;-) )

This is my first time ever participating in a fundraising campaign, and to be honest, asking for money doesn’t come naturally to me. But asking on behalf of the Truckee Roundhouse makes it so much easier because I know firsthand the incredible impact this space has on the community and people's live—mine included.

I’ve always been drawn to creating things. As an engineer, my “making” happened in the virtual world—lines of code, data, and systems. But I never saw myself as a Maker, at least not in the hands-on, crafting sense. That changed almost three years ago when my husband and I relocated to Tahoe, and I stumbled upon the Truckee Roundhouse. From the moment I joined as a member, I was welcomed into a vibrant, inspiring community. Some of the most creative, empathetic, and brilliant people I’ve ever met volunteer their time and share their knowledge here. 

As someone who has often felt like an outsider—whether growing up as a fat kid, being gay, or navigating the challenges of being an immigrant—I know how rare it is to find a space that embraces you fully. The Truckee Roundhouse is exactly that kind of space. It doesn’t matter if you’re an artist, an engineer, or someone who’s never picked up a tool—everyone is welcomed with open arms and encouraged to explore their (and everyone else's) creativity.

Earlier this year, I was honored to join the board of directors to help preserve and grow what makes the Roundhouse so special. Every donation you make ensures more people can access this incredible space, take classes, and discover the joy of making something with their own hands. 

And hey, did I set my goal high? Maybe! But I know it’s worth the effort and that with your help I can make it happen! Will you help me crush it in my first fundraising campaign?