Our Story

TOOLBANK serves community-based organizations by providing tools, equipment & expertise to empower their most ambitious goals.

Our Beginnings

The ToolBank concept was created in Atlanta in 1991 with the idea of neighbors helping neighbors by giving their time and loaning their tools to do home repairs for their neighbors in need. In 2008, ToolBank USA was launched to replicate the model and establish ToolBanks throughout the United States. The ToolBank’s signature lending model allows charities to focus on their mission by relying on ToolBanks to provide, store, and repair critically-needed tools and equipment. ToolBanks share their resources with charitable groups so they can equip volunteers to efficiently complete work in less time, with the right tools, at minimal costs. Using ToolBank tools, community-based organizations avoid the expense of purchasing, repairing, and storing tools. Each year, the ToolBank recognizes a ToolBank Affiliate who has been outstanding in furthering the mission and vision of the ToolBank.

Our Mission & Values

OUR MISSION

The mission of the ToolBank is to serve community-based organizations by providing the tools, equipment, and expertise needed to empower their most ambitious goals. Our vision is to equip all communities with tools for change.

TOOLBANK USA VALUES

We are a values-based organization that serves our affiliates, member agencies, volunteers, community partners, associates, and suppliers with open hearts and equity.

RESPECT & INCLUSION

We believe in diverse and inclusive participation in our communities and we intentionally strive to create a welcoming environment for all people, regardless of race, sex, age, gender identity, sexual orientation or creed.

INTEGRITY & TRANSPARENCY

We are committed to the highest standards of personal and professional integrity. We support transparency in our financial and operating standards and commit to accountability.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

We are committed to accessibility, professionalism, and open communication focused on those we serve. Our goal is to exceed the expectations of all member agencies, volunteers, donors, and visitors.

TOOL STEWARDSHIP

We manage ToolBank resources responsibly to maintain inventory value, promote long-term viability, and ensure responsible usage and care of the tools by the borrower.

SAFE USAGE OF TOOLBANK TOOLS

We believe in our responsibility to foster and maintain strong relationships with our member agencies that promote responsible usage and care of ToolBank tools. We acknowledge our duty to practice sound stewardship in all activities with our member agencies related to the promotion of safety and responsible usage and care of the tools.

COMMUNITY BUILDING

We have a responsibility to collaborate with our partners to best support the interests of the communities in which we serve.

Our Leadership

Heidi Thompson

Board President
Home Depot

Jon Hammons

Director
UPS

Jessica Pohto

Director
Adepar

Adam Probst

Board Secretary
Risk Strategies

Leah Lawson

Director
Angelic Organics

Patty Russart

Board Treasurer
ToolBank USA

Calum Payne

Director
CBRE

Our Team

Jim Flory

Executive Director

Jim joined Windy City ToolBank as Executive Director in January of 2022. Prior to joining Windy City, he held the position of Director, South Branch for Team Rubicon. With a solid understanding of nonprofits and working with volunteers, his skill-set will enable us to bring the ToolBank network to Chicago and its surrounding area.

Favorite Tool: Fubar

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Our Investors

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