MPDC Awarded MGH Community Health Impact Funds |
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MPDC is pleased to announce that it has received Massachusetts General Hospital, part of the Mass General Brigham health system, Community Health Impact Funds. With these funds, MPDC will pilot Lease to Legacy, an innovative homeownership advancement model utilizing a new financing tool that will create a clear pathway for low- and moderate-income MPDC tenants to build savings toward a down payment over the course of two years.
MPDC is thrilled to introduce this new model for homeownership advancement, which will simultaneously address the shortage of affordable rental units by opening income-restricted MPDC rental units as current tenants transition into their own homes. Lease to Legacy is an exciting facet of MPDC’s new strategic plan, which outlines a three-year commitment to advancing asset and community wealth-building for MPDC residents and the Roxbury neighborhood.
“Housing insecurity and substandard housing are strongly linked to health conditions like cardiovascular disease, asthma, and chronic stress,” said David Brown, MD, Mass General Brigham’s President, Academic Medical Centers. “We are so pleased for the opportunity to invest in and partner with these community-based organizations offering life- and health-altering solutions to the housing crisis in Suffolk County.”
“The housing crisis in our state and across the country is felt most acutely in historically marginalized communities,” said Leslie Aldrich, MPH, Mass General Brigham’s Executive Director for Community Health. “The 22 proposals chosen reflect an equitable, multi-pronged approach to benefitting those most impacted by housing insecurity—unhoused populations, LGBTQ+, immigrants, domestic violence survivors, communities of color, and more.”
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Save the Date for SPARKS! 2024 |
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You are cordially invited to
Sparks!
A starry night in Nubian Square
MPDC’s Annual Fundraising Gala
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Hibernian Hall Ballroom
184 Dudley Street
Roxbury, MA 02119
Tickets on sale soon!
Madison Park Development Corporation welcomes you to a festive, creative, black-tie optional gala at historic Hibernian Hall! Enjoy an evening of building community through meaningful awards, exciting performances, a delicious dinner, locally made beverages, and, of course, dancing!
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In Case You Missed It...
MPDC ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGE
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In June, the Board of Directors of Madison Park Development Corporation (MPDC) announced that Leslie Reid would leave her role as Chief Executive Officer. After nearly five years of leadership, her last day with MPDC was July 12th, 2024.
The Board of Directors has appointed Dr. Ingrid Tucker as Acting CEO to ensure stability and continuity in MPDC’s operations during the transition.
Dr. Tucker joined MPDC in July 2021, bringing over 30 years of educational leadership and a life-long commitment to social justice. Dr. Tucker said, “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Leslie over the past few years, and I have gained tremendous insight into the mission, vision, and legacy of MPDC. I am honored and humbled to work collaboratively with the Board, staff, residents, and community partners as we continue transforming lives and creating opportunities and agency. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to serve the community where I have a resolute connection and deep roots.”
Malik Aziz, MPDC’s Board President, said of the leadership transition, “It has been a privilege to have Leslie Reid as our CEO for the past five years. She has been a highly capable leader who helped guide MPDC through very turbulent times, established a strong leadership team, built a robust development pipeline, and implemented a three-year strategic plan. We have laid the groundwork for a smooth transition, and the Board looks forward to new leadership as we begin the next chapter of Madison Park Development Corporation’s story. We thank her for her dedicated service and wish her the best.”
“I leave Madison Park with mixed emotions,” said Reid. “I am proud that we have been able to continue to invest in and expand our real estate efforts, Community Action programming, Hibernian Hall, and The Dewitt Center. I am especially proud of MPDC’s pioneering investments in addressing obstacles to homeownership and advancing the organization’s work on asset and wealth-building opportunities for members of our community. Acting as a steward of MPDC’s important legacy and working with Roxbury residents and stakeholders has been the highlight of my career. The organization is well positioned to continue its very meaningful impact.”
The Board will engage in a selection process for the new CEO over the next several months.
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The Dewitt Center
Late Spring/Early Summer Recap
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Back in May, WinnResidential hosted its Annual Mother's Day Brunch for MPDC residents. The event was a success, with a fantastic turnout from the MPDC community.
Residents enjoyed an afternoon filled with lively music from a talented local band, food from ZAZ Restaurant, and lots of fun.
The highlight of the day was a special visit from Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, who stopped by to share warm and inspiring words with all the mothers present, adding a touch of honor and appreciation to the event.
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Also in May, The Dewitt Center, in partnership with Michael Bivins, hosted another unforgettable Mother's Day Brunch. The event brought together mothers from Orchard Gardens, affectionately known as "OP," who grew up with Michael Bivins and played a role in his upbringing.
The event honored the mothers for their unwavering dedication and love. Attendees shared touching stories and gratitude, whether their mothers were present, living far away, or had passed on.
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These dedicated learners completed a rigorous 20-week English course and will advance to Level 2. Their hard work and determination have paid off, and The Dewitt Center wishes them continued success in their studies.
A special shoutout goes to the instructors who set the bar high, expecting their students to succeed and level up. Their support has been instrumental in helping these students achieve their goals.
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Throughout the program, participants engaged in numerous activities, including field trips to the State House and City Hall, attending press conferences, and hearing from prominent guest speakers, including Mayor Michelle Wu.
MAHEI's program focused on training and teaching youth and young adults how to advocate, organize, research, and become civically engaged. Participants learned how government works, their true history, and how to speak up and speak out for themselves. This comprehensive approach has equipped these young individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
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A Busy Season for OYEP/AYEP/YWF |
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As the Opportunity Youth Employment Program (OYEP) moves through an exciting season of growth and collaboration, the team is thrilled to share some of the activities and achievements of the past few months. MPDC's youth, staff, and partners have been working tirelessly to make a positive impact in the community. Here are some highlights that showcase the dedication and spirit of OYEP.
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Marcus Anthony Educational Institute: Eight youth and an assistant from OYEP have been actively participating every Saturday since January.
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Promotion: Congratulations to Na’ara of OYEP on her promotion to Lead Assistant for the Marcus Anthony Educational Institute.
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Spring Break Collaboration: Six youth from the After School Employment Program (AYEP) and OYEP teamed up with Dress For Success to visit the Brahmin Factory Design Corporation, where each received a purse.
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Youth Summit: Twelve AYEP and OYEP participants attended the Neighborhood Network Center's (NNC) Youth Summit in April, creating a resource van initiative and presenting it to NNC staff and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.
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Budget Summit: MPDC was honored to represent youth and young adults at Councilor Henry Santana’s budget summit, with presentations by Wil Smart and Yhinny Matos to over 40 attendees at City Hall.
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Job Fairs: Youth Workforce (YWC) attended the Boston Latin Academy’s Summer Jobs Fair and participated in the City of Boston’s Job and Resource Fair, where they met Councilor Henry Santana, now mentoring OYEP youth and becoming a summer host site.
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Graduation: In the spring, three former OYEP participants received their high school diplomas while Lilian Vorhnem, Youth Workforce intern from the College For Social Innovation, graduated and delivered a speech highlighting our organization. Thank you Lilian for all of your hard work!
MPDC is proud of its collaborations and the achievements of youth and staff. Thank you for your continued support!
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MPDC Staffer Awarded for Excellence in
Black Achievement
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In June, the Metropolitan District of the Church of God in Christ honored Rev. Wilbur Smart, seen here with Senior leadership from MPDC, Acting CEO Ingrid Tucker, and Director of Community Action Lyndon Vincent, with an award for Excellence in Black Achievement.
His unwavering commitment to guiding the younger generation is further demonstrated through his role as President of the Massachusetts First Jurisdiction Church of God in Christ Jurisdictional Youth and Young Adult Department. Married to his high school sweetheart, Evangelist Charlynne Mines, for 31 years and father to two amazing daughters, Chalayna and Tyla Smart, Rev. Smart continuously strives to uplift and inspire others through his faith and tireless work.
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Inspiring updates from OEP |
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Healthcare Support Services Training Program
The Opportunity Employment Program Team is pleased to announce the successful completion of our Healthcare Support Services Training Program! Over eight weeks, nine dedicated trainees worked tirelessly, and their efforts culminated in a joyous celebration. The trainees proudly presented the highlights of their journey, showcasing the invaluable skills they have acquired to become stronger candidates in the healthcare field. Now, as they embark on the next phase of their careers, they are eagerly applying for positions at Boston Children's Hospital.
Pop-Up Potluck and Clothing Drive
The OEP team also hosted a student-led Pop-Up Potluck and professional clothing drive. This successful event was an opportunity for everyone to come together, enjoy some food, and acquire professional clothing. It was a great moment of community and support.
No Trauma, No Drama
In May, OEP held the 8th installment of No Trauma, No Drama, a youth-led mental health forum. MPDC youth participants from OEP and the Youth Advocacy Program collaborated with Mass in Motion to identify and discuss mental health challenges and barriers. The event included self-care activities led by the youth and a panel discussion with six community mental health professionals, providing a platform for youth to voice their needs and perspectives.
Hibernian Hall hosted the LRC Youth Health Forum, where young adult participants expressed their journeys with mental health through art, workshops, and discussions. The panel featured two OEP participants, one OEP Makeup Artistry graduate, and a current HiSet student, who debuted her first workshop on resilience and mental health, sharing personal experiences and uplifting attendees.
Early Summer Celebrations
Pride Celebration: OEP hosted a Pride celebration, during which youth workforce participants created jewelry, flags, signs, and apparel for Boston's Pride Parade. They also learned about the rich history and culture of the LGBTQ+ community in the US, celebrating their journey and ongoing struggle for equality and freedom.
Juneteenth Celebration: OEP's annual Juneteenth celebration allowed students to explore the profound connection between African Americans and botany before, during, and after slavery. They also learned about the significance of Juneteenth and the brief but impactful Afro-American Golden Age that followed.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement with OEP!
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MPDC Resource Development Updates |
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Healthy Places By Design: Activating Boston
Boston Children's Hospital
MPDC is grateful for its selection as a funded partner on the new Boston Children's Hospital "Youth Leaders for Mental Health and Behavioral Health" initiative, which will provide critical support for activities designed and led by youth to explore pressing issues affecting their mental health. Learn more about MPDC's project here!
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Fifteen Cents on the Dollar |
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In May, MPDC co-hosted an event with authors Louise Story and Ebony Reed at Hibernian Hall. The diverse crowd included Roxbury residents and officials from the Boston Federal Reserve, as well as The Boston Foundation. Louise and Ebony kindly donated 100 books sourced from Frugal Bookstore to MPDC residents.
Leslie Reid, the former MPDC CEO, challenged the term “financial literacy,” advocating for more “financial energy” to help families build wealth despite bureaucratic obstacles. Des Allen of the Boston Federal Reserve emphasized the need for Black wealth building beyond housing. Courtney Brunson of The Boston Foundation highlighted the importance of accurate data on racial wealth gaps to inform policy. Alfia Turner, a Roxbury resident, shared her journey toward financial stability, inspiring the audience with her determination to "fill that gap."
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Join MPDC to Engage
Civically in the Community!
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Your Representative and Advocacy 101 Training
In preparation for the annual MACDC Lobby Day at the Massachusetts State House, the MPDC community and staff gathered with other community development organizations. Throughout the afternoon, they engaged in meaningful discussions with our representatives and senators.
Community Celebrations and Advocacy
At World Asthma Day in Nubian Square, MPDC celebrated with local organizations focused on climate justice and other environmental efforts.
Get Out the Vote Volunteers Needed!
MPDC is recruiting volunteers for this year’s election cycle.
If you or your organization is interested in helping get out the vote in the Roxbury community,
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Roxbury Sunflower Project Updates |
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From tiny seedlings, giant sunflowers will grow! Volunteers appeared from the neighborhood as folks who were just walking or biking stopped to see what RSP was up to. Also on hand were Emely, Maggie, Adam, Taija-Rayne, and Ashley from the Rose Kennedy Greenway; Jen Coyne and Clare from Martin's Park; Lilly from Speak for the Trees; and, of course, RSP founder Ekua Holmes facilitated the run for coffee, juice, and treats.
It took dedication for Kai Holmes to remove the thick weeds carefully and by hand from last year's RSP planting, revealing several strong and healthy sunflowers.
Lilian Bonilla-Reyes, Mekhi Edge of Speak for the Trees, and RSP founder Ekua Holmes were on hand to water thirsty sunflowers in June. It's a big job that requires hoses and hands, but water is the necessary ingredient to grow beautiful, radiant sunflowers on this lot.
The new shed built by WORC2 is a big help to the project, as RSP can store tools and supplies or step into a little shade on a sunny day. Soon, it will be vibrantly painted with the colors of summer!
The site is looking great! Plans are being made for a low fence, more planting beds, and community art activities later this month.
Stay updated on this initiative here.
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MPDC x American Heart Association |
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The American Heart Association has partnered with MPDC's Health Equity and Community Wellness Program to enhance community safety by equipping MPDC with an automatic external defibrillator (AED) and providing essential hands-on CPR training.
Each year, over 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States, with a survival rate of only 10% due to the lack of immediate CPR or AED intervention. Prompt CPR and AED use can significantly increase a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival, potentially doubling or tripling the survival rate.
This initiative is made possible through the generous support of local philanthropists Tom and Dorene McCourt. Their contribution has enabled the American Heart Association to provide MPDC with:
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CPR & First Aid Anywhere Training Kit: Comprehensive training tools for adult and child CPR, AED usage, and choking emergency response.
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Cardiac Emergency Response Plan: A strategic guide to reducing cardiac arrest fatalities in various settings, including schools, workplaces, and community organizations.
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20 Child CPR Anytime Training Kits: These kits contain resources to teach CPR, AED awareness, and choking relief to children in approximately 20 minutes.
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Heartsaver First Aid CPR AED Course Funding: Training for up to 15 MPDC staff members to become certified in first aid, CPR, and AED use.
“The American Heart Association is thrilled to partner with Madison Park Development Corporation to make life-saving resources more accessible to our community,” said Karen Whitefield, executive of the American Heart Association in Boston. “This is a crucial step in empowering people to act swiftly in the event of a cardiac emergency. Together, we are creating a safer, more prepared Boston.”
For more information about this initiative,
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Thank you to MPDC's
Newsletter Contributors
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Allison Anderson
Alondra Delgado
Arianna Guiseppone
Carlos Taveras
Erica Davis
Haris Lefteri
Joshua McLinden
Kelly Lydon
Meghan Higgins
Wilbur Smart
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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 get in touch with IMSO at
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The Dewitt Center Jazz Festival |
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WHEN: Thursday, August 1st
4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
WHERE: The Dewitt Center
(122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury, MA)
Featuring The Makanda Project, Spoken Word, Live Music, and more!
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Roxbury Roots Two-Year Anniversary |
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WHEN: Saturday, August 10th
6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
WHERE: Hibernian Hall
(184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA)
Join Hibernian Hall for a night of gathering and live storytelling around the campfire. "Roxbury Roots" is back by popular demand after its first successful year!
Allow the night to take you through a great range of human experiences filled with laughter, tears, and truth. Each story is unique, and each voice is authentic. Stick around for food, refreshments, and lots of prizes.
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HBCU Tour Information Sessions |
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WHEN: Wednesday, August 14th from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wednesday, September 25th from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
WHERE: MPDC Offices
(184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA)
MPDC is pleased to announce that we will host a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Tour during Winter Break from February 17th to 21st, 2025!
Historically, Black colleges and universities have been academic, social, and spiritual safe havens for students seeking an intimate and purposeful college experience. HBCUs provide a diverse, inclusive, and supportive educational experience that has a life-long impact on student confidence, achievement, and belonging.
We want to provide this unique opportunity to Black and Brown students so they may consider all viable college options!
We will be hosting two HBCU Tour Information Sessions at MPDC which will be a great opportunity for students and parents seeking to learn more about HBCUs and expand their college choices! We look forward to seeing you!
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