At Grand River Makerspace, we believe access to tools, learning, and creative community shouldn’t be limited by finances alone.

The Community Participation Membership Program offers a reduced-rate membership for individuals who are willing to contribute scheduled volunteer time that helps keep the makerspace running, welcoming, and sustainable.

This program is designed for people who want to be actively involved in the space — not just as members, but as contributors to the community.

While financial need is not a requirement to participate, priority may be given to applicants for whom reduced-rate access meaningfully lowers a barrier to participation.

How the Program Works

Participants in this program receive:

Reduced monthly membership:
$32/month

In exchange for:

16 hours of scheduled volunteer service per month

Volunteer shifts are coordinated in advance and may include:

• Front desk & member check-in

• Tours for walk-ins

• Tool and space cleaning

• Workshop or event setup & teardown

• General organization and support

• Other tasks that help keep the space operating smoothly

This is a membership program, not casual volunteering — participants receive full member access while actively meeting program requirements.

Eligibility & Expectations

To be considered, applicants must:

• Be 18 years or older

• Demonstrate a strong interest in contributing to the makerspace community

• Explain how a reduced-rate membership supports their continued participation

• Be able to reliably complete 16 scheduled volunteer hours per month

• Commit to a respectful, welcoming, and responsible makerspace culture

Financial hardship is not a determining factor, but may be considered as part of the overall application when program capacity is limited.

Participant Responsibilities

Participants are expected to:

• Follow all makerspace policies and safety procedures

• Complete assigned shifts on time

• Communicate clearly with volunteer coordinators

Failure to complete required hours may result in:

• Paying the difference between the reduced rate and the standard membership for that month, or

• Removal from the program if requirements are repeatedly unmet

Application & Selection

• Applications may be submitted directly or by invitation

• All applications are reviewed by the Board or a designated committee

• Program spots are limited and acceptance is not guaranteed

• Availability may change based on operational needs

📄 Full program details and expectations are outlined in the application PDF below.

👉 Download the Community Participation Membership Program PDF

Ready to Apply?

If this program sounds like a good fit, we invite you to apply.

👉 Complete the application form below