annually
Through woodworking and mentorship, Deeply Ingrained helps youth build relationships, grow in character, and find purpose—cultivating creativity, confidence, and practical pathways toward a brighter future.
Built from the
community up.
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 employment for teens and young adults, 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.
Our Programs
Three core programs bring woodworking and mentorship to youth and communities across Indianapolis, plus camps and in-school classes, all at no direct cost to participants.
A fully equipped mobile workshop that brings tools, projects, and knowledge to libraries, parks, schools, summer camps, community centers, nonprofits, and events.
Book a workshop →A paid mentorship program where teens and young adults build woodworking, workplace, and life skills through hands-on learning. Real skills, real responsibility, real career pathways.
Learn more →Our program for justice-involved youth, building core skills, confidence, self-awareness, and the knowledge to create a practical plan for the future.
Check out the program →Handmade in
Indianapolis.
Every purchase supports Deeply Ingrained’s youth programs. Shop purposefully made goods, creative projects, and merchandise while helping young people build skills and confidence.
The organizations that make it possible
There's a place for you here.
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.
Learn More →Partner with Deeply Ingrained to expand hands-on learning and mentoring opportunities for young people across Indianapolis.
View Sponsorship Info →