The sound of hammers and laughter echoed through the woodshop at Farmingdale High School on Jan. 28, as people supported by Day Services joined students for a woodworking project designed to build skills, confidence, and connection.  

From the moment they entered the woodshop, people expressed excitement and curiosity about the project ahead. Paired with advanced woodworking students, they learned how to safely use hammers and nail guns to assemble birdhouses—one to keep and another for Wheatley Farms and Arts Center.  

“I’m going to give it to my brother-in-law,” Richard Spizziri said of his first birdhouse.

Richard worked alongside Farmingdale High School students Chris Hill and Ryan Kearney.  

“Richard is a natural,” Ryan said. “He did great.”

What began as a learning experience quickly turned into easy conversation, shared laughter, and thoughtful discussions about how to complete the birdhouses from kits the woodshop classes constructed before the visit. Students with advanced woodshop experience served as mentors. After practicing with the students on the first birdhouse, people in Day Services took the lead building birdhouses from the kits. The adults’ confidence grew as they hammered and picked the right number of nails to secure their project together. 

Corey Sterler, Farmingdale High School Technology Teacher, emphasized that the workshop was intentionally structured to ensure everyone felt supported and capable. 

“It really has to do with the kids,” said Corey. “They’re the ones that make this happen. This is because somewhere along the line, somebody helped them like this and they’re giving back, moving everything forward.” 

Once completed, everyone gathered for a shared lunch, celebrating the finished crafts and the connections made throughout the day. The gathering marked another step in a growing partnership between the district and AHRC Nassau, centered on inclusion and community engagement.

“We are thrilled to see our partnership with AHRC Nassau continue to flourish,” said Paul Defendini, Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools. “Opportunities like this allow us to create meaningful, inclusive experiences that bring our community together.”

In the coming months, Lynne Brewer, AHRC Nassau Community Liaison, is actively working with the district to plan more activities to promote skill development, inclusion, and awareness.