United Way Mat-Su Tool Library provides equipment for community

Earlier this year, United Way Mat-Su founded the Tool Library, providing essential tools and equipment for community members eager to undertake outdoor projects that benefit the greater community.

Founder of the project and Development and Outreach Director at United Way Mat-Su, Michelle Harmeling looks forward to the community utilizing what the Tool Library offers.

“The goal of the tool library is to make the implements and infrastructure needed for community projects readily available and to reduce the cost and burden of volunteer groups and agencies,” said Harmeling.

What is it?

The United Way of Mat-Su (UWMS) Tool Library is a catalog of available tools to check out and utilize with the intent of community service and improvement.

Available tools include a ladder, shovels, painting materials, lawn care supplies, a driller and more. On the website, the desired quantity of each tool can be requested depending on what is needed.

Upon filling out an online form submission on the Tool Library website, patrons can request the tools available for the project desired to be completed. The website asks for the tools to be returned during normal business days and hours.

The establishment of the program was made possible through receiving funding from the Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation, as seen on the form submission page.

“We're in a good place as far as our relationship with Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation to hopefully in the next three to five years boost the health and attractiveness of parks and playgrounds in the Valley,” said Harmeling.

Who is it for?

Harmeling is excited about what opportunities the Tool Library poses for volunteer groups looking to do community projects, such as repairing run-down parks, repainting fences and other community-oriented projects.

Whether patrons approach United Way with or without ideas for projects, United Way Mat-Su Tool Library is able to help.

If a proposed project is with the purpose of bettering the Mat-Su, for example, repairing the A-Moosement Park in the heart of Palmer, then the organization is happy to rent out tools from the library.

If a group comes without a project in mind but a willingness to take the tools out and help somewhere, the United Way Mat-Su has ideas and projects to help coordinate and delegate.

“Renovations and improvements are our forte so that we can make places more inviting and safer for kids and ensure that there's a cohesive parks and public spaces situation in the valley,” said Harmeling.

How can you help?

The Tool Library is accepting donations from the public. For example, Harmeling shared how while they have the supplies to paint, they do not have the paint itself. Donations can be delivered to the United Way Mat-Su office on South Alaska Street.

Additionally, they hope to acquire more tools over time to allow for the completion of bigger tasks, such as clearing out public plots of land with the use of weed whackers and lawnmowers.

Whether an individual or a group effort, all help is accepted and appreciated by United Way Mat-Su as the betterment of the community is the ultimate priority.

What’s Ahead?

While the Tool Library is now available for Mat-Su residents, United Way Mat-Su offers an additional number of opportunities for citizens to help within the greater community.

“We're always working behind the scenes on lots of things,” said Harmeling.

For example, on July 30, the Stuff the Bus event will be held at Amazing Grace Academy by the fairgrounds. Mat-Su school district students are welcome to come and receive backpacks, school supplies, clothing and footwear for the upcoming school year.

The United Way Mat-Su website lists upcoming events and how the Mat-Su community can become involved and lend a helping hand, whether they need tools to do so or not.