Happy June from MPDC! As MPDC gets ready to welcome another vibrant summer of programming and events, it is always a joy to kick off the season by celebrating NeighborWorks Week, which started on Saturday, June 3rd. Thank you for joining us as we celebrated NeighborWorks Week 2023, along with nearly 250 NeighborWorks network organizations! We’re grateful for NeighborWorks America’s support and the incredible work they do on behalf of communities throughout the US and Puerto Rico. Click through the hashtag #NWweek on social media to see how other community development organizations like MPDC celebrated this week.
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The Pick-Up Basket Ball was a slam dunk! |
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Many thanks to everyone who attended MPDC's first annual fundraiser for The Dewitt Center, the Pick-Up Basket Ball! Everyone had a great time celebrating the 5th birthday of The Dewitt Center and the fantastic work that happens there every day.
MPDC is grateful to M & T Bank for their event sponsorship and Councilor Julia Mejia for joining us.
You can support the mission of The Dewitt Center here.
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MPDC recieves DHCD funding award |
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In May, the Healey-Driscoll Administration took a significant step toward addressing affordable housing needs in Massachusetts. The administration announced the allocation of $246 million in direct subsidies and state and federal housing tax credits to support the construction and preservation of nearly 1,600 affordable homes across the state. This initiative was led by Governor Maura T. Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Housing and Community Development Secretary Appointee Ed Augustus, and Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox, who joined Lowell City Manager Thomas Golden in revealing the awards for 27 projects in 20 cities and towns.
MPDC's project at 84 Warren Street secured more than $20 million in funding from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). This funding includes both Federal and State Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, as well as other State funds. The 84 Warren project will create 65 new affordable homes and provide 22 homeownership opportunities, catering to individuals and families with restricted incomes.
Another achievement worth celebrating is the completion of the funding request for MPDC's project at 2085 Washington Street. This development has received a total award of over $50 million, enabling the construction of 96 homes, including 32 homeownership opportunities.
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Last call for MPDC'S 2023
Scholarship Program!
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MPDC's Scholarship Program is BACK for 2023 and will award $50,000 in scholarships to fund educational pursuits for those graduating in Spring/Summer of 2023!
Application Deadline: June 16th, 2023 at 5:00 pm
For more information about MPDC’s Scholarship Program, please email Youth Workforce Manager Yhinny Matos or call 617.849.6236.
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Don't miss ARTS ON THE ROX
at Hibernian Hall!
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You are invited to attend
ARTS ON THE ROX
on Friday, June 9th, 2023 at 6:30 pm
at Hibernian Hall
184 Dudley Street
Roxbury, MA 02119
General Admission — $20; Seated Admission — $50
On June 9th, 2023, from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm, MPDC is hosting the eagerly anticipated "Arts on the Rox." Hibernian Hall will transform into a tropical paradise, echoing the rhythm of cultures from Ghana to Panama.
This year's theme, "Tropical Grooves," invites you to express your personal style by wearing your favorite cocktail attire. Be immersed in curated performances drawn from Hibernian Hall's rich history, including our previously sold-out production, "ALIVE," with artist Cornell Coley. Move to the sounds of Afro-Jazz led by Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition winner Darren Barrett. The highlight of the event will be an intimate panel conversation with the visionary leaders of MPDC.
"Arts on the Rox" supports Hibernian Hall's mission to cultivate artistic growth and inspire creative engagement in our community.
If you have questions about this event, please contact Haris Lefteri at [email protected].
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On May 25th, residents and staff gathered for a meaningful event - The Massachusetts Association of CDCs' (MACDC) Lobby Day at the Massachusetts State House. Attendees, including MPDC residents and staff, had the opportunity to voice their concerns, share personal stories, and advocate for important legislation with their District Representatives.
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MPDC invites you to mark your calendars for Saturday, June 24th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM to gather at The Dewitt Center for this year's Annual MPDC Unity Day.
This special event celebrates the wealth of our community and promises an afternoon filled with family fun, valuable resources, engaging activities, uplifting music, and delicious food. Join MPDC staff in the company of local entrepreneurs and community partners for a memorable experience you won't want to miss.
If you want to learn more about Unity Day, contact MPDC's Civic Engagement Coordinator, Allison Anderson - 617.849.6225.
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Commonwealth Corps x MPDC |
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Recently, MPDC was selected as a host site for the 2023-24 Mass Service Alliance Commonwealth Corps program. MPDC will host two full-time corps members within the Community Action Department from August 2023 through June 2024. Learn more about these opportunities here.
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The Dewitt Center had a magnificent May! |
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As the school year draws to a close, the One Love Sports Academy has been addressing the concerns of its students both in school and at home. This month's end-of-session celebration provided a valuable opportunity to bring families and tutors together.
One Love Sports Academy is dedicated to serving the young boys and girls of the 02110 and 02112 communities. With the support of their inspirational tutors, students have had the chance to learn and grow in a nurturing environment.
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The Marcus Anthony Hall Educational Institute is dedicated to empowering individuals who aspire to make a positive impact in their community. With a focus on teaching youth about civic engagement, they strive to increase their skills, knowledge, and ability to create lasting change.
Recently, Professor Jemaradi Karmara and Dr. Philip True generously shared their knowledge of Black History with students. The engaging and enlightening sessions allowed everyone to learn about the history and origins, sparking excitement and curiosity.
The Institute serves predominantly Black and Brown youth aged 14 to 18. Their goal is to foster youth learning by conducting meetings and engaging with elected officials and reporters, equipping them with valuable skills for effective communication and community involvement.
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The Department of Children and Families recently organized an event called Confidence Day, bringing together youth from the community. The event featured workshops and professional development programs aimed at preparing youth for the working world.
During the event, all the students had the opportunity to participate in mock interviews conducted by curated partners. They also used their "passport" to visit four vendor partner tables, gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities. Additionally, City Councilor at Large Julia Mejia provided motivational words to inspire and uplift the attendees.
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'I AM' Health & Wellness Day at MPDC |
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In May, MPDC hosted 'I AM' Health & Wellness Day, a Community Leadership project funded by NeighborWorks America.
Led by dedicated Health & Wellness Coordinator Leslie Stafford, the event focused on promoting self-care and a healthy lifestyle. Guests gathered for a half-mile walk in Roxbury, ending at the Community Garden, where over 75 Garden Club members and their children also participated.
At the garden, the walk transformed into a Passport Tour, with nine different organizations, including Boston Medical Center, American Heart Association, and Whittier Street Health Center. Participants received a passport and had the opportunity to engage in gardening education, blood pressure screenings, diabetes education, and vaccination Q&A sessions—all made possible by dedicated volunteers. The event fostered intergenerational connections, with a strong presence of youth from MPDC.
Throughout the day, the event enhanced social cohesion, reduced social isolation, and increased awareness of the importance of blood pressure monitoring. Healthcare professionals provided valuable health education, while the community enjoyed a healthy BBQ with salads, sandwiches, and even ice cream provided by the Boston Police Department.
The focus of the event was "I AM," which encouraged participants to use their voices to fill in the blank, expressing their uniqueness and identity.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Leslie Stafford and all the collaborators who made this Health & Wellness Day a memorable success!
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MPDC celebrates Homeownership Month |
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MPDC kicked off Homeownership Month at The Dewitt Center with a fun event to provide comprehensive information about homeownership and connect attendees with industry professionals.
The event was well-attended by 20 residents ranging from first-time homebuyers to those interested in rental property investment. MPDC provided information on the Madison Park Next-Door Homeownership Program and featured vendors such as real estate agents, mortgage lenders, and home-buying counselors. Panelists shared valuable insights on financing, navigating the real estate market, and identifying potential red flags during the purchasing process.
Attendees had the opportunity to win raffle baskets and connect with local resources such as housing counseling services, down payment assistance programs, and homebuyer education courses. The event provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the home-buying process and the necessary tools to make informed decisions.
For more information on the Madison Park Next Door Homeownership application and qualification process, please visit MPDC's website or contact LaQuisa Burke at [email protected].
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May 2023 Youth Development Updates |
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MPDC would like to extend special kudos to two outstanding members of our youth community, Jayda Moore and Navianie Johnson. Both recently graduated from Foxboro High School and have been active participants in the MPDC Youth Workforce Program since their freshman year.
Their dedication and hard work have paid off as they embark on their collegiate journeys at Norfolk State University and UMASS Dartmouth.
Congratulations, Jayda and Navianie!
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In May, MPDC celebrated the After School Youth Employment Program and the Opportunity Youth Program's Closeout event, culminating in a successful academic season. With more than 120 guests, including nearly 60 After School Program and Opportunity Employment participants, MPDC celebrated this milestone in style.
Thanks to the generous support of Mass Humanities, the event featured a reading of Frederick Douglass' historic speech followed by an inspiring award ceremony, well-deserved acknowledgments, and a delightful dinner.
A round of applause to all who completed their full internship—a remarkable achievement and congratulations to Jasmine Thai, the prestigious "Above & Beyond" Award recipient!
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MPDC Youth understand the significance of giving back and supporting our communities. MPDC youth and young adults actively contribute by collaborating with the Health + Wellness and The Dewitt Center teams on a near-weekly basis, including packaging and preparing groceries for our immediate neighbors and those beyond our community.
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Thank you to MPDC's May 2023 Newsletter Contributors |
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Allison Anderson
Erica Davis
Griffin Thomas
Haris Lefteri
Kelly Lydon
LaQuisa Burke
Leslie Stafford
Meghan Higgins
Yhinny Matos
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UPCOMING EVENTS & MEETINGS |
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Resident Association Meetings for Madison Park Village are held monthly on Tuesdays.
June 13th
July 11th
August 8th
September 12th
Please join us at The Dewitt Center (122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury) from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
If a meeting is rescheduled, it will be the following Tuesday.
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MPDC x IMSO
Food Pantry @ The Dewitt Center
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WHEN: Every 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY of each month
11:00 am
WHERE: The Dewitt Center
(122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury, MA)
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.
For more information, please contact IMSO at
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Voices of Liberation presents
G's 2 Gents
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WHEN: Saturday, June 10th
11:00 am to 4:00 pm
WHERE: The Guild Works
(260 Washington St, Boston, MA 02121)
Voices of Liberation is back with G’s to Gents for 2023!
G’s 2 Gents is a transformative event bringing together resources to help men take steps toward self-empowerment and personal growth. G’s to Gents III will offer professional clothes, shoes, CORI sealing, record expungement, legal aid, haircuts, professional headshots, resume coaches and printing, job opportunities, as well as tools for mental & physical wellness.
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MPDC's Peer Health Leader Training |
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WHEN: Tuesday, June 13th to Thursday, June 15th
10:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: Orchard Garden
(25 Ambrose Street, Roxbury, MA)
MPDC’s Peer Health Leader Training is a two-day long, comprehensive workshop that provides Roxbury residents with an opportunity to learn more about important community issues such as suicide prevention, health and wellness, injury prevention, and more. Additionally, MPDC partners with local organizations and groups to enhance this unique learning experience for all that are involved.
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OPAT presents Get to Know Commissioner Cox |
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WHEN: Thursday, June 15th
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
WHERE: Bruce C. Bolling Municipal Building
(2300 Washington Street, Roxbury, MA)
The meeting will feature “Get to Know Commissioner Cox” and will allow residents to interact with Boston Police Department Commissioner Cox and learn more about his public safety priorities and strategies. Members of the public can attend in person at the Bolling Building or can join virtually via Zoom. Language interpretation will be provided in person for the event.
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Boston Lyric Opera presents
The Wanderer's Tethering
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WHEN: Saturday, June 18th
4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
WHERE: Hibernian Hall
(184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA)
Boston Poet Laureate Porsha Olayiwola teams up with composer Mason Bynes on The Wanderer’s Tethering, an operetta that explores the complex experiences of people with both African and Black American roots. Through a mix of songs and spoken word performance, the central character Toby navigates between feeling unmoored in her identity and finding the stories and legacies that become her anchors. Bynes’ music includes the merging of Negro spirituals and Igbo folkloric music, reflecting the merging and transformation that Toby goes through in claiming her identity. The concert program, curated by BLO Artistic Advisor Vimbayi Kaziboni, also includes musical selections by Trevor Weston, Jessie Montgomery, and Florence Price. During the program, audiences will also hear from the artists about their inspiration and creative process. This performance features Boston Poet Laureate Porsha Olayiwola, musicians from Castle of our Skins, and BLO Jane & Steven Akin, Emerging Artist Brianna J. Robinson.
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WHEN: Saturday, June 16th
6:45 pm
WHERE: Hibernian Hall
(184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA)
Join 617Peak at Hibernian Hall to experience the works of art 617Peak’s students have been crafting through their Peak Sessions. All proceeds go towards youth programming to help us continue our work in the community!
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WHEN: Saturday, June 24th
11:00 am to 3:00 pm
WHERE: The Dewitt Center
(122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury, MA)
Come together for this year’s Annual MPDC Unity Day, celebrating our community’s wealth! Join entrepreneurs, local businesses, community partners, and MPDC departments for an afternoon full of resources, activities, music, and food.
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Meaningful Occasions' Senior Showcase |
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WHEN: Saturday, July 1st
2:00 pm
WHERE: The Dewitt Center
(122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury, MA)
Featuring senior models showcasing a variety of styles from different decades, this fashion show will reflect the various fashion trends seniors have experienced over the years. From vintage outfits to modern-day techniques, our senior models will walk the runway, showcasing their costumes and accessories as the audience cheers them on.
This event is not only a celebration of style but also an excellent way to promote body positivity and self-confidence among seniors.
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MPDC/BRCO. Makeup Artistry Course |
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WHEN: July 10th to August 31st
Deadline to register is Monday, July 3rd
MPDC's Opportunity Employment Program is now accepting applications for an 8-week makeup artistry course!
The program includes eight pre-recorded online classes, a 22-piece makeup kit, a chance to learn the most popular makeup looks, and more! Each class will be dedicated to learning specific makeup skills. Benefits of the program include certification in makeup artistry, pro discounts, and more!
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Dewitt Center Senior Prom Night |
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WHEN: Saturday, August 5th
4:00 pm
WHERE: The Dewitt Center
(122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury, MA)
The evening promises a fabulous experience, complete with a formal dinner, a live DJ to keep you dancing, a photo booth with entertaining props for capturing fun moments, and much more.
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