Frequently Asked Questions

At GRIT, our mission is to reignite curiosity in the skilled trades—the “lost art” of building, fixing, and creating with your hands. Through hands-on experiences in HVAC-R, Electrical, Carpentry, and Plumbing, we connect young people with real tools and real professionals. With the guidance of experienced tradespeople, students get the chance to explore their potential, build confidence, and discover the value of learning by doing.

GRIT Camps are one-day, hands-on experiences for students ages 12–17 to discover the skilled trades. Guided by experienced tradespeople, students explore real skills in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and carpentry—working with actual tools in authentic settings like contractor shops or training facilities.

Hosting a GRIT Camp means recruiting mentors (skilled tradespeople) and students (local youth) for a one-day, hands-on event. Contractors, skilled trades professionals, and trades educators can collaborate to host a GRIT Camp. GRIT provides planning support, training guidance, and essential supplies like PPE and hand tools for students. Contractors who host are encouraged to use their own team of trades professionals. Mentors and hosts review our GRIT Camp Guide, covering 6–7 trade modules that prepare them to lead students safely and effectively. Hosts will meet with Leilani Orr and Ty Branaman, complete background checks, and handle materials, tools, and participant recruitment. GRIT supports you with logistics, admin, and any questions along the way. Camps require 1 mentor per 2 students and max out at 15 students.

GRIT Workshops are short-form, high-impact, hands-on learning experiences designed to connect students and professionals directly with the world of the skilled trades. Led by Ty Branaman, GRIT’s Head of Training, these 1 to 6 hour instructor-led workshops deliver immersive, discussion-driven learning in classrooms, training centers, and industry spaces without the full production of a GRIT Camp. They are ideal for schools, contractors, manufacturers, and training programs seeking real-world skill development and engagement.

Hosting a GRIT Workshop means recruiting students (either local youth or skilled tradespeople depending on the workshop), handling location logistics, and collect materials. The first step of hosting a workshop is meeting with Leilani Orr to discuss in detail what a GRIT workshop would look like with your company. GRIT supports you with logistics, admin, and any questions along the way. Workshops are built to work with 20-50 students per session. Complete this interest form to get started.

Students learn real-world skills like safety practices, blueprint reading, tool use, carpentry, plumbing, brazing, and building electrical circuits—all through hands-on modules led by skilled trades professionals.

Host an Event: We’ll help you plan and launch a GRIT Camp or Workshop in your area. Mentor or Volunteer: Skilled tradespeople can guide students throughout the camp. To ensure a safe learning environment, all mentors must pass a background check before participating. Donate: Charitable Contributions directly support materials, resources, and program expansion. The best starting place is to complete our interest form and we will reach out to you.

Yes. The GRIT Foundation is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN (Tax ID): 33-1405549 IRS Determination Date: October 9, 2024 Public Charity Status: 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) All contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Visit www.thegritfoundation.com to join our mailing list. Email us at: leilani@thegritfoundation.com or abby@thegritfoundation.com