Makerbot Support TOM 2018: Local community unites to make a more inclusive Australia!

TOM: Melbourne, partnered with MakerBot to launch TOM Developer Groups!

TOM (Tikkun Olam Makers) is a game changing social impact initiative, a global movement of innovators dedicated to creating extremely affordable technological solutions for the neglected needs of people living with disabilities.

Thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers, TOM: Melbourne will now have a permanent presence with the launch of TOM Developer Groups, the first of its kind in Australia.

Building on the success of the TOM: Melbourne Makeathon, (TOM’s flagship event), Developer Groups are the second phase of the TOM process where teams work regularly on existing TOM Prototypes and help advance them into TOM Products, ready to be disseminated to the global community through an online web platform, available for all in the public domain.

Developer Groups will revolutionise the way in which Makers and problem solvers can use their skills for good, to make a real impact and immediate difference in the lives of people living with disabilities.

Makerbot is very excited and honoured to partner with TOM once again. The level of innovation and collaboration at the Makeathons gives a real glimpse into how we can utilize emerging technologies, like Makerbot 3D printers, to make meaningful and drastic changes in the quality of life for people living with disabilities.

TOM: Melbourne’s Kylie Appel said through a unique collaboration with MakerBot, TOM can demonstrate the power of collective action and technological innovation to really help people live more inclusively. The intention is that all this goodness comes from people in the local community, using their skills for good to make a positive impact.

Some real outcomes from past Makeathons include:

• Portable magnetic ramp stored in a wheelchair to assist in mounting curbs enabling Stacey to travel independently.
• Modified tricycle for Mandy who has two prosthetic arms and legs allowing her to bike ride with her family.
• Golf glove for Beau who became a quadriplegic, enabling him to hold a club whilst swinging and taking clubs in and out of the bag independently.
• Adjustable dog guide harness with Bluetooth functionality for Sif, so she can wear both flat and high heels.