Makers Mill honors Program Director Carol Holyoake upon retirement

WOLFEBORO — Makers Mill announces the retirement of Program Director Carol Holyoake, whose decades of leadership, service, and vision have helped shape the organization from its earliest beginnings into the vibrant community makerspace it is today.

Holyoake’s story is deeply intertwined with the origins of Makers Mill. She was present at the original potluck in 2006 where the idea for what would become G.A.L.A. (Global Awareness Local Action) first took shape. She went on to serve as a founding board member and later as an AmeriCorps volunteer, contributing to a wide range of grassroots initiatives focused on sustainability, food systems, and community resilience.

Over the years, Holyoake has played a hands-on role in many of the organization’s most memorable and impactful efforts. From installing solar hot water systems and building community gardens to cooking at First Night Chili and Chowda fundraisers and coordinating Farm to Table Dinners and East of Suez Benefit Nights, her contributions span both the visible and behind-the-scenes work that sustained the organization’s growth.

She was also a key contributor to the organization’s Sustain-A-Raiser program, traveling throughout the region in a vegetable-oil powered truck to help community members install raised garden beds, rain barrels, and compost systems.

Beyond her hands-on work, Holyoake has been instrumental in guiding major organizational decisions. She participated in strategic planning efforts during pivotal transitions, helping shape decisions around staffing, programming, and ultimately the move from a decentralized model to a permanent home.

Holyoake returned to the organization at a critical moment as assistant director during Executive Director Josh Arnold’s paternity leave, helping guide the transition from G.A.L.A. to Makers Mill and supporting the acquisition of the organization’s current makerspace.

For the past four years, Holyoake has served as program director, leading the development and coordination of Makers Mill’s programming. Under her leadership, the organization has grown to offer an average of 30 classes per month and expanded its network of instructors, volunteers, and members. She has played a central role in building the systems and processes that support ongoing program delivery and community engagement.

“Having Carol as a copilot has been a gift,” said Executive Director Josh Arnold. “She has brought balance and thoughtful partnership to the work. I have enjoyed and learned a great deal from working alongside such a dedicated and skillful friend.”

Holyoake’s impact extends beyond programs and operations. She has helped shape governance, support volunteer and staff onboarding, and strengthen the organizational systems that allow Makers Mill to grow sustainably. Known for her patience, diplomacy, and care, she has been a steady and trusted presence throughout periods of change and growth.

Makers Mill plans to host a community celebration in late spring or early summer to honor Holyoake’s many contributions. Details will be announced in the coming weeks. To receive an invitation and stay up to date, join the Makers Mill mailing list at makersmill.org.

The organization’s Board of Directors is currently updating the program director role to reflect evolving organizational needs and will begin a search for new leadership soon.

Holyoake’s legacy is embedded in the foundation, growth, and future of Makers Mill, and her contributions will continue to shape the organization for years to come.