Building Confidence, One Piece of Wood at a Time: 'Deeply Ingrained' Inspires Youth

Five years ago, a pandemic-inspired idea sparked a transformative movement in the Indianapolis community. What started as a simple project for a father and his children has blossomed into "Deeply Ingrained," a program offering valuable woodworking skills and life lessons to hundreds of children.

Founded by David Haughs, the program began with a mobile workshop, the Woodshop on Wheels. Haughs was motivated to create woodworking projects for his kids during the pandemic, but as word spread, interest surged, leading him to establish the program.

"Meeting a lot of new people and hearing a lot of new stories... I started to identify the gaps in society and in our community between what some kids have access to and what other kids don't," Haughs said.

Today, Deeply Ingrained partners with summer camps, inner-city community centers, and low-income schools, including Perry Township's James Whitcomb Riley Success Academy. The program has grown to engage up to 1,500 individuals a year, bringing woodworking and mentoring into the lives of those who might otherwise lack such opportunities.

Student Jeremiah shared his experience with the program: "The thing I love the most is the teachers… they're really kind." He noted that different people have different situations and that in different situations, you got to talk to certain people that you trust about your situation."

Haughs expressed how humbling this journey has been, noting that donors are finding them, a testament to the program's growing reputation and impact.

In 2024, Deeply Ingrained took a monumental step forward with the launch of its workforce development program, specifically designed for high school students. Students engage in paid internships supported by the City of Indianapolis's Elevation Grants, aiming to reduce crime.

"Our ultimate goal is to get kids graduated from high school and on the path to a successful career, whether that’s going to college, entering trades, or joining an apprentice program," Haughs said.