Meet Mindful Works
Do you have a story behind your company name?
Mindful Works was chosen to reflect our meditation and yoga products. Our original name was Infinitely Simple, but participants felt that name did not accurately portray our mission and activities.
Tell us, how did you get your start?
Our Executive Director, Susan Williams, saw a need for employment to be part of the recovery process for individuals overcoming mental health challenges. Mindful Works is supervised by The Windhorse Guild and was created in 2015. We provide employment and real wages to our participants as they build skills to prepare them to enter the traditional labor market or pursue educational goals.
We love that! Do you have a favorite part of the maker process?
We love the collaboration that goes into making all of our goods. One person may cut the pattern, and another may sew, and then another may fill. It feels really great when it all comes together and we arrive at a finished piece. It is also wonderful to see the progress made by our participants as they improve their skills and gain confidence.
It is a true team effort. Can you tell us what a typical day is like in the studio for you?
Our day typically starts at 10am, with Program participants clocking in and getting work assignments for the day. Our Shoppe Manager keeps the work flow going as pieces are cut and serged, sewn and filled. Our baking team, The Mindful Bakers, head to the commercial kitchen and work with our Kitchen Manager to create delicious cookies and scones. The atmosphere is lively and buzzing with activity as our program participants learn work skills.
That is inspiring! Speaking of, what inspires you to create?
We are inspired to create different items according to the seasons, as well as color, texture and the beauty of the natural world.
Do you have a favorite item you have made?
That’s a hard question! We have so many items that we love to make. If we had to pick a favorite it might be our Kilim Patchwork Pouf. That seems to be a customer favorite as well.
What will you be bringing to Jackalope Arvada?
We will be bringing some old favorites like our poufs and meditation cushions. We always have festival flags, jewelry pouches and napkins, which make great gifts.
Anything special you would like to add?
By buying our products you are supporting the recovery of individuals overcoming barriers to employment due to mental health challenges.
We can’t wait to see you in person this August 5th & 6th for Jackalope Arvada!
Where to see more of Mindful Works:
Website | www.mindful-works.org
Instagram | @mindfulworksboulder