One of IDEA’s Employment and Income Generating Projects (EIGPs) is the construction shop, now officially named Hammer and Nails Livelihood Center, Inc. (HNLC). The majority of its employees were once our deaf-student beneficiaries. Now, the number of our deaf graduates is undeniably increasing and it comes with IDEA’s increasing need to find employment for the skilled Deaf. IDEA is seeking ways to make our graduates more self-reliant. Thus, HNLC is developing more services such as electronics/refrigeration/appliance repair, furniture and upholstery, landscaping, masonry, automotive services, welding, painting, carpentry, and many more skills. Therefore, more deaf individuals are given the opportunity to be in a job to support themselves after school. Our students will be equipped with more vocational skills since the IDEA shop also serves as our vocational training center. HNLC services are not only working for IDEA establishments but they are also accepting contracts outside of IDEA.
Take a look at this video of what’s inside Hammer and Nails Livelihood Center, Inc.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmU1NKQqPlI&rel=0
Dennis Drake with Hammer & Nails Construction Crew
Hammer & Nails Livelihood Center, Inc. Front View