How We’re Starting
In Phase 1, Milford Makes comes to life through pop-up programs and mobile creative experiences—small, intentional gatherings that allow us to collect materials, invite the community in, and learn what works before establishing a permanent home.
They’re simple, hands-on experiences designed to bring people together, spark creativity, and make making feel accessible—no experience required.
What We Do
Milford Makes keeps materials in motion through a simple, repeatable cycle:
Collect/Re-Collect
We gather donated art, craft, and reusable materials from the community—giving overlooked supplies a second life instead of sending them to the landfill.
Sort + Store
Materials are thoughtfully sorted and organized so they’re easy to use, easy to share, and ready to support creative projects of all kinds.
Create + Learn
We host hands-on programs and pop-up makerspaces where people of all ages can explore creativity using donated materials—no experience required.
Share Materials
We redistribute materials back into the community through free access for educators and low-cost options for the public, keeping creativity affordable and accessible.
Why This Matters
Creative materials are often wasted, outgrown, or forgotten. At the same time, many people want to make things but lack access, confidence, or a place to start.
Milford Makes exists to close that gap by turning excess into opportunity and making creativity a shared, community experience.
Where We’re Going
The long-term vision for Milford Makes is a permanent creative reuse and learning space in Milford—one that supports individuals, families, educators, and community organizations year-round.
Phase 1 pop-ups help us get there thoughtfully, sustainably, and in conversation with the community we’re building this for.
People who want to create but don’t know where to begin.
Educators looking for accessible classroom materials.
Families and individuals seeking creative connection.
Anyone who believes creativity should be shared, not scarce.
Our Board of Directors
Jen Conlon, President and Founder
Jen Conlon is a graphic designer, lifelong crafter, and founder of Milford Makes. Growing up in Milford, creativity was woven into everyday life through a mother who sewed, crocheted, and was always trying something new. Jen returned to Milford over 14 years ago with her two sons and remains deeply connected to the community. A former member of the Milford Education Foundation Board of Directors, she believes creativity thrives when people have access to materials, encouragement, and welcoming spaces to learn. Her current creative obsessions include English Paper Piecing quilts, junk journaling, and giving forgotten craft supplies a second life.
Liz Garypie, Vice President
Liz Garypie is a lifelong maker, knitter, and founder of the Milford Makers Meet Up group, created in 2025 to provide a welcoming space where local creatives can gather, make, and connect. As the owner of E.G. Insights, LLC, Liz helps individuals and teams navigate growth, change, and leadership development. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in engineering and organizational transformation, she combines strategic thinking with a deep belief in the power of creativity and community. Liz is passionate about creating spaces where people can learn, share skills, and build connections through making.
Jill Powers, Secretary
bio to come.
Wylie Blake, Board Member at Large
Growing up as a figure skater, Wylie was blessed to have a creative mom who sewed all her awesome costumes and ignited her interest in making cool things. As a campus minister for community service at Fairfield University, she helped students and faculty engage in meaningful volunteer opportunities. She is excited to work with Milford Makes volunteers to help find ways to reuse materials, learn new techniques and have fun crafting.
