Congratulations to Mark J. Ianello on His Retirement

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mark J. Ianello, Chief Administrative and Finance Officer of the City of Lawrence, on his retirement! Thank you for your 14 years of dedication and service in this role. Mark has shared his expertise as a guest speaker in our "Know Your City" series. We wish him all the best for a happy and fulfilling retirement!

United Insights: Closing the Gap

Massachusetts has significant income inequality, with the top 80th percentile earning 5.5 times more than the bottom 20th percentile. United Way is addressing this by supporting Lawrence CommunityWorks, MIDAS, Boston Builds Credit, Compass Working Capital, EMPath, Urban Edge, and its own programs.

These organizations focus on income growth, financial literacy, and wealth building. United Way also advocates for policies like guaranteed income and baby bonds, works on the Secure 2.0 Act, and tracks progress with Root Cause. Community involvement is encouraged through advocacy and awareness.

Merrimack Valley YMCA Opens a New Child Care Center

The Merrimack Valley YMCA, in partnership with Andover and South Church, has opened a new child care center, now offering infant care.

“This expansion provides families with high-quality care,” said YMCA CEO Francis J. Kenneally.

Now enrolling!

Lawrence, Haverhill Projects Awarded $5M in State Housing Incentives

Massachusetts awarded $27 million through the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) to support housing projects in Gateway Cities, including developments in Lawrence and Haverhill. The funding, part of an expanded HDIP program under Gov. Maura Healey’s tax package, aims to create 709 new housing units across nine cities, revitalizing old mills and commercial properties.

Notable recipients include the 24-unit "theJAV" project in Lawrence and Essex Street Lofts in Haverhill. In total, HDIP awards in 2024 will support 1,256 new units. Officials emphasize the program’s role in increasing housing supply, affordability, and economic development.

ALX100 Celebración Tour

"You are invited to join us in Salem for the next stop of the ALX100 Celebración Tour! This event is free to attend and everyone is welcome but you must register in advance — it’ll be a fantastic evening of connection and LatinXcellence, and you’re invited!

The evening celebration will feature live music by ALX100 honoree, Patiño Vazquez and his band, Los Sugar Kings. We'll also enjoy food by Latina-owned Magic Empanadas and of course, the chance to celebrate with members of the ALX community and ALX100 honorees!"

ALX100 Salem Celebration

Thursday, February 6

6:30 - 9:00 pm

Peabody Essex Museum

161 Essex Street

Salem, MA 01105

(Register by February 4th)

Merrimack Valley Credit Union hosts First-Time Home Buyers seminar

Complimentary Virtual Seminar

• "Learn the process of buying a home from preapproval to closing
• Understand the importance of good credit
• Find out about the different programs and mortgages that are available to first-time home buyers"

First-Time Home Buyers Seminar

Tuesday, February, 11

6:00 - 7:30 pm

Online via Zoom

ACT Lawrence presents Youth Workforce Development Cohort

"ACT Lawrence is bringing you our workforce development cohort, designed for youth ages 17-24. This program provides the tools, resources, and support necessary for success in today’s workforce.

Participants will have access to:

• Skill Building: Explore essential job skills through workshops.
• Mentorship: Connect with experienced professionals for guidance and advice.
• Job Placement Support: Workshops to learn how to create a standout resume that highlights skills and experiences!

We encourage you to share this opportunity with the youth in your network, as it’s a great way for them to gain experience, build their resumes, and take the next step toward a successful career."

Fresh Finds All Season Long: Winter Farmer’s Market

"Our farmers markets are a staple all year round, and with the weather changing, you can expect to see new additions to the available fruits and veggies with wonderful seasonal produce like sweet potatoes, apples, broccoli, and squash from Riverdale Farm, wonderful pastries and loaves of bread from Purple Carrot Bread Company, and honey from our favorite local apiary Soney Bees. Our 2024-2025 winter market will be held twice a month in the lobby of the same building as our office at 50 Island Street, Entrance B. until May 25th.  

We Accept / Aceptamos: Cash, Debit, Credit, EBT/SNAP/Food Stamps, HIP, WIC, Senior Coupons, and Groundwork Lawrence coupons."