Building More Than Birdhouses: How Lindsay Holcombe Turned Creativity into Community Impact
When passion meets purpose, extraordinary things happen. That’s exactly what our participants experienced when Lindsay Holcombe walked through our doors.
A Workshop That Inspired
We recently hosted Lindsay from If You Had Wings, Inc., and the visit exceeded all expectations. Lindsay brought more than just woodworking skills—she brought inspiration and a generous spirit that energized everyone in the room.
During the workshop, Lindsay talked through and demonstrated her entire creative process. First, our participants learned about cutting and sanding techniques. Next, they moved on to how the pieces are assembled. Finally, personal touches could be added through stenciling. Watching her demonstration was impressive. However, seeing our participants light up as they created their own keepsake crafts was truly priceless.
From Pandemic to Purpose
Lindsay’s journey to our workshop began during one of the most challenging times in recent history. In April 2020, COVID-19 shut down the restaurant where she worked. Rather than waiting for things to return to normal, Lindsay asked herself a powerful question: What can I do to help my community?
Soon after, she reached out to her friend Stephen Todd for support. Together, with help from family and staff members they created If You Had Wings, Inc. Since then, the team has been designing, building, painting, and marketing one-of-a-kind birdhouses. Additionally, in 2023, they expanded their offerings to include hand-painted Christmas ornaments.
A Mission of 100% Giving
What makes Lindsay’s work especially meaningful is her commitment to giving back. Remarkably, she donates 100% of proceeds from her sales to organizations like Able to Serve. Furthermore, her focus remains clear—she prioritizes nonprofits that celebrate, encourage, support, and empower children and adults with disabilities.
As a result, the impact has been substantial. To date, If You Had Wings, Inc. has donated over $49,000 to area and national nonprofit groups. Consequently, that’s $49,000 in changed lives, expanded opportunities, and strengthened communities—all built one birdhouse at a time.
Building Confidence and Connection
These moments of hands-on learning remind us what community truly means. It’s not just about receiving support—it’s about sharing talents, building confidence, and discovering new possibilities together. Lindsay’s commitment to giving back while pursuing her craft represents exactly the kind of community partnership that creates real impact. Unlike traditional charity models, she sees our participants as fellow creators, learners, and community members worthy of investment.
A Legacy of Generosity
Thank you, Lindsay, for investing your time and talent in our community. Through your example, you prove that combining skills with purpose makes a difference in ways that ripple far beyond a single day.
Although you came to teach birdhouse building, you left us with something far more valuable. Specifically, you reminded us that each person has gifts to share. In addition, you showed us that giving back doesn’t require wealth—just creativity and commitment. Ultimately, the most beautiful things we build aren’t always made of wood. Rather, they’re made of connection, possibility, and belief in one another.
Get Involved
To learn more about If You Had Wings, Inc., visit their website or follow @ifyouhadwings on social media. By purchasing a one-of-a-kind birdhouse or ornament, you’ll support nonprofits serving individuals with disabilities—because 100% of proceeds go directly to these important causes.
