A holiday ornament and a chair that needs a new seat may seem like unrelated purchases. At Augusta Training Shop, both are part of the same work.
The longtime nonprofit creates work opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities through handmade goods and restoration services. An Augusta University profile published Nov. 9 puts a fresh spotlight on that community and its executive director, Audrey Murell.
Murell, a 1997 Augusta State University graduate, first came to the organization as an intern in 1996 and became executive director in 2001, according to the profile. The Training Shop dates to 1947.
Two ways to put the work to use
The Training Shop’s current website lists handwoven snowflakes, paintings and other handmade goods. Its linked online shop is the place to check current products, prices and availability.
The other route starts with something a customer already owns. The organization offers furniture repair, refinishing and painting, along with seat weaving, handcaning, sheet-cane replacement and metal polishing.
Its services page describes work on chairs, footstools, benches and other pieces, and invites customers to request estimates. It lists 706-738-1358 and augustatrainingshop@gmail.com, including the option of emailing photographs.
Ask about suitability, cost and turnaround before counting on a repair for the holidays.
More than a seasonal purchase
The AU profile grew out of an October community-engagement visit. It describes the shop as a place where workers’ skills can be seen and valued, not merely a destination for a one-time donation.
That distinction is useful as shopping season approaches. Buying an object and commissioning skilled repair are ordinary transactions. Here, they also connect a customer with a nonprofit’s continuing work.
The organization says proceeds from its restoration services go back into its programs. Customers can review the work and request an estimate before deciding whether a repair fits their needs.
For residents who would rather repair a well-used chair than replace it, or give something made locally, this is a practical place to start.