Through woodworking and mentorship, Deeply Ingrained helps youth build relationships, grow in character, and find purpose—cultivating creativity, confidence, and a path toward a brighter future.
Founded in 2020 during COVID-19, Deeply Ingrained began when Dave Haughs — an engineer and lifelong woodworker — started distributing free weekly woodworking projects to Indianapolis families. What started as an act of community care grew into something much larger.
Today we run mobile workshops, youth mentorship and workforce development programs, and paid teen internships — all at zero direct cost to participants. Our programs are grounded in the Positive Youth Development framework because the wood is just the vehicle. The goal is building people.
Three ways we bring woodworking and mentorship to youth and communities across Indianapolis—all at no direct cost to participants.
A fully equipped 24-foot mobile workshop that brings tools, projects, and knowledge to schools, community centers, and events.
Book a workshop →A paid mentorship program where teens build woodworking, workplace, and life skills through hands-on learning. Real skills, real responsibility, real career pathways.
Learn more →A pathway building core skills, confidence, and self-awareness. Gaining the knowledge to create a practical plan for their future.
Check out the program →Every purchase supports Deeply Ingrained’s youth programs. Shop purposefully made goods, creative projects, and merchandise while helping young people build skills and confidence.
Every gift helps provide hands-on learning, quality materials, and supportive mentoring for young people across Indianapolis.
Donate Now →Share your time and skills through workshop assistance, youth mentoring, tutoring, or other ways that match your interests and experiences.
Sign Up to Volunteer →Partner with Deeply Ingrained to expand hands-on learning and mentoring opportunities for young people across Indianapolis.
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