About Our Team
Our CEO and Chief Toy Maker - Richard "Poppy" Fairchild
"What we leave behind, is not as important as how we lived it."
Welcome to Poppy's Workshop, where creativity meets compassion, and the heart behind our mission is embodied by our founder and CEO, social entrepreneur Richard "Poppy" Fairchild.
Woodworking Craftsman:
With over 50 years of woodworking expertise, Poppy's journey with woodcraft began in 7th-grade wood shop classes, where a lifelong passion was ignited. His intricate knowledge of the craft has been a driving force behind the creation of hand-made wooden toys that bring joy to children in need.
Dedication to Community Service:
Poppy's commitment to community service spans three decades, including 15 years spent in a full-time role within Family Life Ministries, a non-profit youth ministry and radio network in Bath, New York. Additionally, he has countless hours of additional volunteer and non-profit organization work, including over 2000 hours with the U.S. Civil Air Patrol across seven years, as an officer winning the U.S. President's Volunteer Service Gold Award in 2008. His unwavering dedication to making a positive impact has been a cornerstone of his volunteer career.
Church Planting and Building:
As a founding member and head deacon of two Baptist Church plants, Poppy has played a pivotal role as a church planter, contributing to the establishment and growth of these spiritual communities. His hands-on involvement in building three church buildings, one in Massachusetts and two in the Finger Lakes Region of NY, reflects his dedication to community building.
Inspiration from Grand-Fatherhood:
The inspiration for Poppy's Workshop struck when Richard became a first-time grandfather, he then became a "Poppy", the term used for grandfathers on his maternal side of the family. The joy and wonder he witnesses through the eyes of his grandchild fuels his commitment to spreading that same
joy to children facing adversity.
Professional Background:
In addition to his extensive experience in the non-profit sector, Richard is currently on staff at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO ACT in Norfolk, VA.) the Warfare Development Command. Prior to NATO, Richard was contracted staff for the Joints Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Joints Forces Command, and a contracted trainer for the US Army. His multifaceted background uniquely positions him to lead Poppy's Workshop, combining his professional acumen with a genuine passion for woodworking and community service.
At Poppy's Workshop, we are not just crafting toys; with your help, we are crafting moments of joy and resilience. Richard "Poppy" Fairchild's wealth of experience and compassionate leadership drive our mission to bring comfort, creativity, and the transformative power of play to children facing adversity worldwide.
Join us in this inspiring journey led by a visionary with a heart
dedicated to making a lasting impact.
Primary Toy Tester - Grandson Liam
Meet Liam, our quickly growing up and adorable staff volunteer at Poppy's Workshop! This dynamo has already claimed the title of our official toy tester. Armed with an unbridled enthusiasm for all things that can go in his mouth, Liam fearlessly dives into a world of wooden wonders, giving each creation his rigorous "toddler-approved" test.
With every giggle, laugh, and chubby-handed exploration, he unknowingly becomes the heartbeat of our workshop, infusing each toy with the purest form of joy and curiosity.
In the bustling realm of creativity and craftsmanship, Liam reigns supreme as the pint-sized ambassador of play. His discerning taste and boundless energy keep our team on their toes, ensuring that every hand-made wooden toy passes the stringent Liam Test with flying colors. Who knew that a two and a half year-old could wield such influence in the world of artisanal creations?
Here at Poppy's Workshop, we celebrate the growing team member with the biggest heart, making playtime a serious business (according to Liam, at least)! #LiamsToyTime #PoppyApproved #TinyTester
Meet Our Newest Staff Member: Owen
We’re thrilled to welcome the newest (and certainly the cutest) member of Poppy’s Workshop—Owen, Toy Tester-in-Training!
Though he’s still getting the hang of tummy time, Owen brings fresh energy and big smiles to the shop. His current responsibilities include:
- Supervising naps
- Conducting drool-resistance tests on wooden toys
- Offering gummy grins during sanding breaks
- Reminding us why the work we do matters
He may not be handling the scroll saw just yet, but Owen is already inspiring new designs, softer finishes, and a renewed sense of purpose in every toy we craft.
Welcome to the team, little buddy. You’ve got sawdust in your future!