The Welman Project is a nonprofit organization that partners with schools across the Dallas-Fort Worth area, primarily public and charter schools, to provide free resources for teachers and educators. From books to arts and crafts supplies, the Welman Project serves as a creative and sustainable resource that promotes imagination, waste reduction and learning.

The founders, Vanessa Barker and Taylor Willis, wanted to create an easy and accessible way to support teachers in reducing waste. The Welman Project became official in January 2016. Since then, it has been a leading force in sustainability in Fort Worth. The headquarters include the creative warehouse where teachers and educators can find whatever supplies they need for free. 

Donations come from everywhere, from local magazines to coffee shops. These donations truly reflect the importance of the DFW community. 

“​​I think one of the ways that pouring into your community comes back to you tenfold is — I mean, one word-of-mouth recommendation is the best advertising,” Lauren Watson, the development & marketing director at The Welman Project, said.

With more educators from out of town coming to visit and shop at The Welman Project, they decided to make the “Welly Fun Guide.” The guide is a way for the Welman to give back to the community by introducing people to local restaurants and activities.

“I think the fact that we were also able to build so many relationships and steward our community, it’s also going back to our community,” Watson said. 

Companies like Cherry Coffee have built a strong relationship with The Welman Project, and they pour into each other. 

The Welman Project has expanded its brand over the years. It began in a small gymnasium with no AC and a handwritten inventory system. Now, it has turned into a headquarters with a system of organizing and labeling, weekly classes and a hardworking team. In 2021, they moved to their current space, where they expanded with new areas like the Curiosity Shop and Dad’s Garage.

This past summer, they were able to save teachers over $1 million in school supplies through their free educator warehouse. They also received a $16,000 donation from famous actor Alan Tudyk through his foundation, One Love Fund.

The TCU community has also played a big role in the Welman Project’s success. Through the university’s  ReFrog initiative, the campus promotes sustainability by allowing students to donate any of their items at move-out.

“I think ReFrog redirected almost $40,000 worth of material,” Watson said. 

TCU students can contribute by volunteering, donating or spreading awareness.

Students can sign up for a two-hour volunteer shift through Welman’s website to sort donations, create fun arts and crafts projects and assist with community events. Students can also donate school supplies, art materials and even old books.

The Welman Project is hosting its 10th anniversary birthday celebration on Nov. 15, celebrating a decade of creativity and reuse. The free community event will have local vendors and carnival-style crafts.

The celebration will be hosted at the Amphibian Stage and is open to everyone. The event will be a reflection of the Welman Project’s impact over the last decade and highlight its dedication to education and advocating for sustainability.