We are proud to once again share with you the comprehensive community development efforts MPDC undertook in 2022 as we further advanced our mission of fostering a vibrant, healthy Roxbury neighborhood that supports the well-being and advancement of all.

In 2022, MPDC continued to see important growth within our wealth and community-building programming while achieving major milestones on multiple housing projects. MPDC's robust pipeline of upcoming affordable housing opportunities has been deliberately developed to address a wide range of needs, from deeply affordable rental housing to new opportunities for low and moderate-income residents seeking to purchase their first home.

Excitingly, MPDC was part of the winning project team to receive designation of the city-owned Parcel 3. In partnership with HYM and My City at Peace, this project will bring over 300 new units of affordable rental and homeownership housing, thousands of square feet of lab and commercial space, a new home for the King Boston Museum and Policy Center, as well as more than 2,000 new jobs. That this will all be occurring at a site that has been vacant for decades due to the destructive urban renewal policies that catalyzed MPDC’s formation nearly 60 years ago is a beautiful conclusion and a powerful testament to the vision of our founders, the efforts of committed MPDC leaders over the last 57 years and the resilience of our community.

Despite the hardships that our community has faced due to the extraordinarily challenging social and economic conditions we continue to grapple with, MPDC recognizes the once-in-a-generation opportunities ahead of us to make meaningful and lasting change; to reimagine systems and foster communities that can work for everyone. We also know we cannot do this transformative work without our remarkable Roxbury community, particularly our residents.

Madison Park Development Corporation welcomes you to a festive creative black tie (*OPTIONAL*) gala at Hibernian Hall! Enjoy an evening of bubbles with a beverage menu focused on supporting BIPOC-owned and operated companies (shout out to The Urban Grape!) and building community through meaningful awards, exciting performances, nearly a dozen local food vendors, and, of course, dancing!

We are also excited to once again be able to offer all of our sponsors Community Investment Tax Credits (CITC). Through the CITC program, donors who contribute to community development organizations like MPDC can receive a 50% state tax rebate on donations of $1,000 or more.

On August 17th, MPDC youth, The Center for Teen Empowerment, and the Youth Innovators from Mass In Motion came together with over 100 participants for the 6th installment of No Trauma No Drama (NTND). This empowering evening featured art and sensory therapy activities, original songs, and heartfelt spoken word performances by eight youth, all sharing their personal journeys with mental health. NTND also delved into coping and meditation practices, promoting healthy, sustainable ways to handle trauma.

During NTND, youth unveiled the inaugural Gun Violence Prevention Art Showcase. The showcase explored and defined what gun violence meant to them and their community through music, art, and poetry. Before the showcase, participants had the opportunity to craft their pieces at MPDC while engaging in thoughtful conversations with licensed clinicians about their experiences with gun violence and its impact on their lives and neighborhoods.

Also in August, The Opportunity Employment Program (OEP) celebrated the Early Education Pathways Program's (EEP) conclusion, where participants earned CPR/First Aid Certificates.

During the program, participants embarked on a journey for six weeks, exploring various early education pathways, including Center-Based Education, Home-Based Early Education, and Paraprofessional roles within the Boston Public Schools.

MPDC's commitment to these graduates continues. OEP is dedicated to providing individualized post-program services, ensuring ongoing support as they pursue their career exploration.

Discover a wealth of inspiration on MPDC's Mental Health Instagram (@mpdcmentalhealth). Follow for motivational quotes, moving poems, and insightful anecdotes from OEP students!

All summer, SummerRox, organized by MPDC's Community Support Team, gathered children aged 6 to 14 for active play, teamwork, and connection, all while beating the heat with cold water, fruit snacks, and shade tents.

The thrill of team activities such as kickball and dodgeball brought youthful energy to the forefront. These classic games kept youth physically engaged, fostered friendships, and celebrated the importance of teamwork.

On August 19th, Hibernian Hall marked a significant milestone with the first anniversary of its event, "Roxbury Roots." This celebratory evening featured five remarkable speakers: Nicholas Josey, Officer Joey Key, Tariq Pinkston, Devon McNeil, and Kurt Faustin, who shared their profound insights into Roxbury's history and personal experiences.

The speakers touched upon various topics, from Roxbury's historical significance to deeply personal stories that shed light on pivotal moments in their lives. As a surprise treat, Hibernian Hall's Technical Director, Asad Hardwick, shared an inspiring story, adding to the rich tapestry of narratives.

Following the enlightening talks, a spirited Q&A session allowed attendees to engage directly with the speakers. Ultimately, "Roxbury Roots" emerged as a resounding success, leaving attendees both informed and inspired. The event continues to beacon of community unity, celebrating Roxbury's past, present,

"Blind Date": A contemporary love story between Bettina, a sighted graphic designer, and Ezra, a blind college professor. The drama unfolds as they navigate societal perceptions and family expectations. Written by Thelma Hilton Pierce.

When: October 12, 13, 14 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Where: Hibernian Hall

Cost: General Admission — $15; Seniors & Students — $10

On Saturday, August 19th, MPDC proudly joined forces with the New Beginnings Reentry Services Community Resource Fair at MPDC's newly acquired site at 639 Warren Street. This event brought together over forty organizations, creating a vibrant atmosphere of community-building and knowledge-sharing. The Fair aimed to provide essential support to formerly incarcerated individuals as they reintegrate into society after prison.

The stage came alive with the talents of musicians and performers, including the heartwarming performance by an 8-year-old granddaughter of a formerly incarcerated woman. Local politicians, alongside MPDC Vice President of Real Estate Intiya Ambrogi-Isaza and Deputy Director Dr. Ingrid Tucker, joined the event, making it a day of unity and inspiration for all in attendance. It was a beautiful day to come together and strengthen our community!

We value your input! If you're a community member and have ideas on what MPDC should build on the 639 Warren site, please take a moment to share your thoughts by filling out a survey about the project here.

This family-friendly after-work event, hosted by Ekua Holmes and the Roxbury Sunflower Project in collaboration with MPDC and other organizations, promises an evening of music, food, and words from community leaders.

For any questions about this event, contact Ekua and Josh.

August was an exciting month filled with youth civic engagement and ongoing efforts surrounding Participatory Budgeting. More than 30 enthusiastic young individuals came together to grasp the significance of advocacy through storytelling. During Youth Action Day, they learned to effectively engage and share vital information with their neighbors.

Harvard Medical students delved into the rich history and the relentless efforts of community members over the decades to empower and advocate for their needs. These students also had the privilege of participating in MPDC's Civic Engagement Session "99 Problems," where they could actively listen to ongoing community initiatives.

What is Participatory Budgeting? It's a yearly process comprising several stages that aim to centralize a vision for a people-centered approach to budgeting, ultimately contributing to a more democratic budget. In 2021, the Better Budget ballot initiative passed, and in 2023, an initial request of 1% of the City budget ($40 million) turned into a significant victory of $4 million to pilot this process. You can learn more at betterbudgetalliance.org. 

For more information, contact Allison Anderson / 617-386-2025

The Dewitt Center has lots planned for this Fall!

Check out the latest catalog and #DoItAtTheDewitt here.

On Saturday, August 8th, the Dewitt Center hosted a VERY special occasion - the 2023 Senior Prom. The gym was magically transformed into an elegant, themed night, creating an enchanting atmosphere where 60 seniors from Madison Park Village and neighboring communities gathered.

On Friday, August 4th, The Dewitt Center hosted Confidence Day, organized by Dress for Success Boston, in partnership with MPDC. This inspiring event was designed for young women between 14 and 21. Over 70 young women gathered to embark on a journey of self-discovery and professionalism.

As a delightful conclusion to Confidence Day, each participant went home with free professional attire, jewelry, undergarments, and toiletries.

Every Tuesday and Thursday this summer, The Dewitt Center staff, in collaboration with WINNCompanies, brought the thrill of sports to life with the Dewitt 3x3 Summer League. The league was open to MPDC residents and youth aged 14 and up from the wider community.

The Dewitt Center's dedicated staff members wore multiple hats for the league, serving as referees, coaches, and scorekeepers, ensuring that every game runs smoothly. But it doesn't stop there – Dewitt Center Members and MPDC Youth helped distribute water, keep track of game statistics, and run the concession stand during the games.

Dreaming of owning your own home? It's a big goal! Compass Working Capital's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is designed to make your homeownership dreams a reality.

Down Payment Power: Most mortgage lenders require a down payment. Saving now helps you meet this requirement, get better loan terms, and lower monthly payments.

Safety Net: Unexpected homeownership costs can pop up. With savings, you're prepared for closing costs, inspections, and repairs.

Building Equity: As you make mortgage payments, your home equity grows. Think of it as savings for future home improvements, paying off debts, or buying another property.

Learn more or apply for FSS here. If you have questions or need more information, contact Compass at

info@joinfss.org / 833-377-0773.

You can also visit the MPDC website or contact Laquisa Burke to learn about Madison Park Next Door (MPND) to learn about homeownership opportunities for MPDC residents.

WHEN: Every 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY of each month

WHERE: The Dewitt Center

The Dewitt Center and the Islamic Multi-Service Organization (IMSO) host monthly food pantries. Canned goods, fruit, pasta, spaghetti, and more will be available for pickup! Supplies are limited.

myimso@yahoo.com or call 617.442.2805.

WHEN: RESCHEDULED

Saturday, September 30th

WHERE: Haynes House Parking Lot

(located at 735 Shawmut Ave., Roxbury, MA 02119)

Join WinnResidental and Connected Communities for their annual Multicultural Festival at MPDC’s Haynes House. Enjoy games, music, live entertainment, food trucks, and more!

WHEN: Saturday, September 30

6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

WHERE: Hibernian Hall

(located at 184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA 02119)

Awaken Christ Church will be celebrating its 7th Year Anniversary with a powerful word from Pastor Baroness Martin and extraordinary praise and worship.

WHEN: October 2nd to November 30th

WHERE: The Dewitt Center

WHEN: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from October 17th to November 16th

WHERE: MPDC Offices

This exclusive, paid opportunity allows individuals to jumpstart their careers at Boston Children's Hospital, receive in-person and online employment support/resources, and get hands-on experience alongside patient professionals.

WHEN: Saturday, November 11th

WHERE: Hibernian Hall

UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF's support, become highly qualified college graduates and ensure that their member institution network is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.