At Benevolent Design Co., our mission extends far beyond building heirloom-quality furniture. Our “why” is rooted in giving back—teaching, empowering, and changing the lives of our veterans through craftsmanship.

We proudly partner with the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program and the Special Operations Care Coalition, offering apprenticeships that teach transitioning service members the art of woodworking and small business operations.

Recently, we introduced our first woodworking course, “Presence in the Woodshop,” in partnership with The Station Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Project. This program goes beyond building furniture—it’s designed to equip participants with the ability to use woodworking as a form of art therapy, encouraging mindfulness, creativity, and healing through craft.

Every purchase made through Benevolent Design Co. directly supports these programs, helping us give back to the men and women who have given so much for our freedom.

A Message From Our Founder

Human emotions, though complex, often come down to two forces: fear and faith. Both are invisible, yet we get to choose which one we focus on. Many of us get stuck in fear — worrying about the future or holding on to the past — and forget how to be truly present.

That’s where woodworking changed my life.

Ten years ago, I was in a low place when I discovered the meditative act of furniture making. Using nearly all my senses to create something tangible helped me find focus, calm, and clarity. It taught me that my past doesn’t define me — that I can imagine, build, and shape my future just like I do with every piece of furniture.

This realization inspired the Presence in the Woodshop course. Growing up in Virginia Beach, I’ve always admired our military community, especially our Special Operations members. Through friends and apprentices, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges they face, particularly around mental health — and I felt called to act.

That calling became reality after attending a Tony Robbins event, where I shared my story. Tony generously contributed funds for our first course, which allowed five SOF participants to build a table from two beautiful black walnut slabs. That table will be auctioned through The Station Foundation, with proceeds supporting future courses, tools, and take-home kits for veterans continuing their craft and healing journey.

At Benevolent Design Co., every build tells a story — of purpose, presence, and possibility. We’re not just shaping wood; we’re helping shape lives.

— Patrick Ryan, Founder & CEO