In downtown State College, The Makery stands as more than just an art studio. It’s a space for creativity, connection, and opportunity. As a nonprofit organization serving the community for 15 years, it has grown into a neighborhood creative hub that supports families, local artists, and young people transitioning out of foster care.

At its core, The Makery is a community art studio offering classes and events for children, families, and adults. Right next door, The Makery Market showcases the work of 55 local and regional artists, featuring handmade clay pieces, jewelry, gifts, knitted hats, mittens, and more. Together, the studio and market create a welcoming space where creativity and local talent thrive.

Unlike traditional retail spaces, it operates entirely as a nonprofit. Most of the market’s proceeds go directly back to the artists, while the remaining funds support young women transitioning out of foster care by providing them with their first job experience in a nurturing, supportive environment.

Through the help and connection with the Centre County Youth Service Bureau and its group home, Stormbreak, which serves women ages 12 to 21. The Makery Market provides employment, mentorship, and a strong sense of community. Supporting the youth through their journey out of foster care is a defining part of their mission.

The studio’s founder, Amy Frank, previously volunteered at Stormbreak and saw firsthand how difficult it can be for a foster youth to maintain employment due to their unfortunate and unstable backgrounds. After her research into national data showed that young people aging out of foster care face significant challenges from housing insecurity and limited job opportunities. In response, The Makery Market created a close-knit environment where youth can build confidence, form relationships, and develop essential life and workplace skills.

Volunteers aged 25 to 50 work closely with apprentices, teaching communication, inventory management, financial literacy, and job responsibilities. Beyond technical skills, the goal is to create a sense of belonging and stability. This transforms the space into more than just a workplace; it becomes a community that fosters a sense of family among everyone involved.

Success is measured not only by employment but by growth, independence, and self-assurance. Within 18 to 21 months, two apprentices have moved into independent housing outside Stormbreak and secured long-term jobs, marking meaningful milestones.

While The Makery believes art is valuable for everyone, it recognizes the unique healing and empowering role creativity can play for anyone. The act of making, whether it’s pottery, painting, baking, or crafting something meaningful, can all offer joy and self-expression.

As Frank explains, “Creativity is more than just ‘art’. It’s about making, experimenting, and finding freedom in the process.”

Looking ahead, The Makery hopes to continue strengthening its presence in State College and other community spaces around Centre County. For now, its focus remains on deepening local connections, collaborating with other nonprofits, and continuing to support youth through creativity and mentorship.

The Makery invites everyone, artists, athletes, minimalists, and other newcomers to visit, explore, and create. In a time when it’s easy to stay home, stream movies, or rely on delivery apps, The Makery reminds the community of the joy found in shared, hands-on experiences.

By nurturing creativity, empowering youth, and building a supportive community, The Makery continues to prove that art, or simply the act of making, can change lives.