Making a Difference Together: Giving Tuesday 2025 and Forge Greensboro

Cone Health’s recent study shows the 27406 zip code has an average life expectancy 10 to 15 years shorter than neighborhoods just five miles away. This disparity reflects gaps in education, income and opportunity. That’s why we partnered with our customers this Giving Tuesday to support Forge Greensboro, a nonprofit space where hands-on learning opens doors to careers in the trades. Located in the heart of this zip code, the Forge expands access to skills training and workforce pathways, helping reduce inequities. 

On December 2, 2025, we donated 8 percent of our gross website sales, totaling $25,175.28, to fund Makerships, training materials, and workforce programs. Every purchase is helping provide tools, instruction and access to a space where residents can build skills and explore careers in the trades.

Your support this Giving Tuesday is helping ensure more people can access the programs, spaces and resources that make a positive difference in residents’ lives.

 

Programs Making a Difference

Makerships
The Makership program helps remove financial barriers to membership by providing scholarships that cover 50 to 100 percent of monthly fees and, for those who qualify, a stipend for classes. They give residents the chance to learn, practice and create without worrying about cost.

Adult Workforce Programs
Adults at Forge Greensboro can earn certifications in trades like welding, machining and electronics. Paid apprenticeships and mentorships help them gain real-world experience, build confidence and connect with local employers.

Youth Programs
Forge Greensboro inspires kids as young as seven, introducing them to trades, STEM skills and creative problem-solving. Students discover hidden talents, gain confidence and see the doors that trades careers can open after high school. 

 

Your Impact

By supporting Forge Greensboro’s mission, adults are earning certifications, learning new skills and finding better jobs. Kids are exploring trades and technology in ways they might never have imagined. Local businesses benefit too, with skilled workers ready to contribute to the community.

Take one recent participant. She used a Makership to complete a welding course, earned her certification, and now works in a local manufacturing shop. She’s earning steady wages and even mentoring others in the program.

As the Forge’s Executive Director Tiffany Jacobs puts it, this donation “will make it possible for us to put real tools in real hands and for individuals to gain experience, develop confidence, and take their first steps toward sustainable, meaningful careers.”

Reflecting on our shared commitment to supporting our Greensboro neighbors, Saf-Gard CMO Ashley Dillon adds: “We’re grateful to our customers for their support this Giving Tuesday and to our partners at The Forge for the meaningful work they do every day to empower and uplift our community.”

For more information or to donate directly, visit Forge Greensboro.