Community Build & Brews
Hammers & Ales is our annual fundraiser event featuring a half-day community and corporate volunteer experience where participants use ToolBank materials, tools, and instructions to hand-build outdoor furniture and placemaking features that we donate to dozens of local community groups in need.
Your team of volunteers can contribute to safe and vibrant public spaces throughout Richmond and beyond by hand-building a park bench, picnic table, or planter bench. The outdoor furniture and placemaking features will be donated to groups Richmond Public Schools, Boys and Girls Club of Richmond, Henrico County Public Schools, or any other choice our groups decide. Build for a cause when you register your team for Hammers & Ales.
Celebrating our 11th year of unity and impact at Hammers & Ales
For over ten years, our city has come together to build more than just furniture – we've built connections and a stronger community, year after year.
This is a chance to be a part of something truly special. This unique give-back experience revolves around teams coming together to hand-build outdoor furniture of your choice, selecting from either picnic tables, storage benches, adirondack chairs, garden benches, park benches, or garden troughs. We provide everything: the materials, the tools, and the know-how.
Alongside tools, ToolBank provides tents for storage and breaks from the sun, games & activity zones for team leisure, and a selection of craft beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and delicious offerings from local food trucks. Every builder gets a commemorative t-shirt with all ages and abilities welcome - no experience necessary.
All proceeds from Hammers & Ales will fuel our
Tools for Change
program, which tackles resource scarcity head-on. By providing affordable tool rentals at just 6% of the tool’s value per week, we empower local nonprofits and community groups to maximize their impact. Since 2015, the Tools for Change program has delivered a $12 million community investment in Richmond, achieved through the combined power of volunteer labor and reduced tool expenses.
Raise a glass, gather your crew around, and cheers to building a stronger Richmond, together at Hammers & Ales!
Big Builds,
Cold Brews,
& Community Impact
Now in its 11th year, Hammers & Ales continues to set the standard for what community investment looks like in Richmond.
Join us on September 18th, 2026 for a half-day build experience that brings corporate teams and community volunteers together to create real, tangible change — one piece of outdoor furniture at a time.
Reserve your spot and help us write the next chapter of Richmond's most beloved community build event.
Hands-on team building! Build outdoor furniture for RVA Parks & HCPS. We've got the tools and materials, you bring the team.
Elevate your brand! Partner with us as a sponsor and unlock unique activations tailored to your budget, showcasing your commitment to community.
Give back with your time! Join our volunteer team and be a vital part of making Hammers & Ales a success, even without a financial commitment.
2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
We understand that every sponsor has unique goals and budgets. That's why our building projects are designed to be scalable. Whether you're looking for a large-scale partnership or a more focused contribution, we can customize a sponsorship package that aligns perfectly with your financial requirements. We’re here to maximize your impact!
2026 Sponsors & Build Teams
Committed to driving lasting change in our community.
City skyline
Blurred Lines
Birthday Sparks
Fashion Magazine
Why Hammers & Ales?
Hammers & Ales is more than just an event; it's a unique opportunity to drive lasting change in Richmond and provide a valuable team-building experience for your company.
On September 18th 2026, our event at the ToolBank’s warehouse offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at our mission and operations. It's a chance to strengthen partnerships and directly impact Richmond communities with minimal organization needed from your team.
Want more details about the experience? View our latest
blog post for what to expect at Hammers & Ales.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there restrooms at the event site?
Yes, we have climate controlled restrooms inside the ToolBank (there will be plenty of signage to guide attendees)
Will food and beverages be available for participants, or should we plan accordingly?
Yes, once you purchase your tickets, it includes an open bar (21+) and catered food from partner (all incentives, event t-shirts, and tickets will be scanned at our Welcome tent on the day of the event)
Are there any recommendations on what participants should wear (closed-toe shoes, work clothes, gloves, etc.)?
We recommend close-toed shoes, wearing a comfortable outfit, bringing sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle
Are there any items participants should bring with them?
Nothing is required, howver you are welcome to bring anything you need to make you and your team comfortable
Are there any safety considerations, weather-related recommendations, or other details we should be aware of before arriving?
Your instructor will go over a brief tool training and safety briefing once we start the "build". Weather and emergency protocols are in place to ensure safety for all participants. There will be "team tents" to block excessive sun and any weather conditions as well
Thank You to Our 2024 - 2025
Sponsors
Connect with us
Whether you’re looking to partner with us, have specific questions about
Hammers & Ales, or simply want to learn more about how the ToolBank, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact our development manager for any questions you may have - Colton@richmondtoolbank.org