Learn and grow through the woodworking apprenticeship program

Since retiring two years ago, Hershey Fitleberg has been a faithful member of the woodworking team five days a week. ”I was always a weekend warrior and loved working with my hands, but I never thought I would have the opportunity to hone my woodworking skills with the state-of-the-art tools and equipment available at the Cummings Centre,” says Hershey.

What does he produce?

From challah boards and Menorahs to a variety of children’s toys and furniture, serving bowls and so much more, Hershey and the team produce dozens of items for sale in the gift shop and at the annual Craft Fair. “There is tremendous satisfaction in knowing that the monies raised from the sale of our work are put back into the Centre so we can all benefit,” points out Hershey.

The Woodshop Apprenticeship Program

Hershey oversees the Woodshop Apprenticeship Program, where small groups of men, and increasingly more women, learn woodworking skills over a 6-week period. “I have discovered that I love teaching and sharing my knowledge with others,” says Hershey. “Watching my students uncover talents they did not know they had is so gratifying.“

– Hershey Fitleberg

The Cummings Centre’s mission is to empower and enhance the quality of life of adults age 50 and over by providing dynamic and innovative programs, social services, and volunteer opportunities in a vibrant, respectful, inclusive and compassionate environment. Building on its Jewish heritage, Cummings embraces people from all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.