2008
Music Club House Grand Opening
Join us on Friday, April 4 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm for the Grand Opening and Community Kick-Off Celebration of the Hyde Square Task Force's new HSTF Music Clubhouse.
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Look at our renovated practice room and recording suite
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Listen to live performances by local youth and well-known JP musicians
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Learn about the new music education and community building activities of Hyde Square Task Force and how you can get involved!
Meet Dave Szebeda, our new Music Manager while you enjoy tasty snacks and light refreshments and tour our new program facilities at the Cheverus Building.
The HSTF Music Clubhouse is an initiative to engage youth ages 10-18 through hands-on music education, performance and community-building activities at our newly-renovated practice and recording space at the Cheverus. The HSTF Music Clubhouse is made possible in part by a grant from the Music & Youth Initiative and the in-kind support of Berklee College of Music.
Click here to view / download a flyer in Adobe PDF format:
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in English (95kB)
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in Spanish (95kB)
DONATE NOW TO SUPPORT THIS EXCITING NEW PROGRAM!
For more information, please contact Dave Szebeda at (617) 524-8303 or via email at dave@hydesquare.org
Ritmo en Accion receive "Coming Up Taller" Award
The Hyde Square Task Force is proud to announce that it is a Coming Up Taller Award winner for its Ritmo en Accion Afro-Latin and contemporary dance program. Youth and adult representatives of the program traveled to Washington, D.C. for a ceremony on Monday, January 28 where they accepted the award, presented at the White House by first lady Laura Bush. The Coming Up Taller award, given by the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, is the nation's highest honor for out of school arts and humanities programs, recognizing not just excellence in arts, but effectiveness at providing life-altering opportunities to youth who are coming of age in communities where they face limited choices.
CONGRATULATIONS RITMO!!!
Click here to read about Ritmo's award in the Boston Globe.
Click here to learn more about the Coming Up Taller Awards.
Click here to watch the video of Ritmo en Accion performing at the White House.
Learn Thru Dance Students Showcase Their Skills
HSTF’s LTD program brings professional dancers into the Kennedy School during the school day to teach Afro-Latin and contemporary dance, but students don’t just learn dance steps and technique, they Learn Thru Dance—that’s what LTD stands for. A companion literacy curriculum uses dance to motivate students to work on their writing through poetry, spoken word, essays and more.
As their 4-month LTD session drew to a close, 4 fourth grade classes, exhibited their skills in a showcase for the rest of their student body, school staff and their parents. Students introduced each performance by sharing what they’d learned about the history and origins of that dance. The classes studied and presented a variety of styles including contemporary Reggaeton and the more traditional Salsa, Merengue, Cha Cha Cha and Bachata. The show ended with a surprise performance by instructors, Burju and Victor of HYM Dance Company, Boston’s premier Latin dance company. In February the 5th grade classes begin their own session of LTD which will culminate at the end of the year with a showcase that will be part of their graduation ceremonies.
For more information about LTD please contact Brenda at
(617) 524-8303 x 323, brenda@hydesquare.org
Executive Director Claudio Martinez Appointed to Boston School Committee
On Monday, January 7th, HSTF’s Executive Director Claudio Martinez was sworn in as a new member of the Boston School Committee, the seven-member board which governs and sets policy for 145 Boston Public Schools. Mayor Menino offered praise for the appointed members, calling them “extraordinary citizens who have devoted their careers to supporting children and families” and “highly respected role models.” Throughout his time as Executive Director of the Hyde Square Task Force, Claudio has been active in the field of education in Boston; he is a member of the Boston Foundation’s Education Advisory Committee, and currently sits on the boards of Boston After School and Beyond and the Latino After School Steering Committee, among others. Many Hyde Square Task Force youth, alumni, and staff members attended the swearing in ceremony to show their support for Claudio and celebrate this accomplishment.
Click here to view the photo gallery of Claudio Martinez’s Appointment to Boston School Committee.
Three Kings Visit the Kennedy!
In celebration of the traditional Latino holiday El Dia de los Reyes, or Three Kings Day, students in the Kennedy and Curley After School Programs were visited by “three kings” on Friday, January 4th. The kings - community adults dressed as the Three Wisemen of Christian tradition – came bearing gifts and books donated by locally owned businesses. Children in the programs interviewed the kings and also participated in fun literacy activities and games. Three Kings Day is one of HSTF’s annual community events, an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our students while promoting a message of literacy among local students.
To learn more about HSTF After School programs, contact Ana at (617) 524-8303 x 324 or at ana@hydesquare.org
Click here to view the photo gallery of the Three Kings Day at the Kennedy After School Program.
2007
Introducing: M.I.S.T.E.R.
Men in Search of Truth and Empowering Response (MISTER) is a discussion and personal development group for young men of the Hyde Square Task Force. MISTER began in the spring of 2007 as a way for these youth to develop an understanding of themselves and their role in the community, as well as within the organization. They strive to make themselves role models for others by supporting important causes, raising awareness about the many issues Black, Latino, and Asian youth face today, and finding meaningful and real solutions to these issues. MISTER participants pride themselves on becoming leaders at the Hyde Square Task Force and among their peers. Taking a leadership role for the first time as a group, MISTER will be hosting HSTF's annual Youth Holiday Party, to be held on December 21st. MISTER members will be responsible for preparing decorations, entertainment, and activities for all HSTF youth team members.
For more information on MISTER, contact Guy at (617) 524-8303 x 302 or guy@hydesquare.org
Kennedy Kids Learn Thru Dance
This year, 4th and 5th grade students at the Kennedy Elementary School continue to participate in Learn Thru Dance (LTD), HSTF's in-school and after-school dance and literacy program. Learn Thru Dance brings professional dance instructors into the classroom, where they teach Afro-Latin and contemporary dance combined with related literacy activities. This year, four classes will work with dance instructors Victor Perez and Burju Hurturk, one more than was taught the previous year. The after-school component of LTD will be run by HSTF alum and former Youth Literacy Tutor, Catherine Medina. In early February, LTD students will give their first performance, showcasing their new dance skills for parents, teachers, and classmates.
For more information on Learn Thru Dance, contact Brenda at (617) 524-8303 x 323 or brenda@hydesquare.org
Youth Programs Have Started
September and October mark the beginning of all HSTF youth programming for the school year. Hyde Square Task Force youth programs serve hundreds of youth each year. To hold our growing programs, we have recently expanded into 4,000 square feet of community space in the Cheverus School, just steps from our main office on Centre Street. Renovations are underway and will soon be complete on a dance studio, music practice space, and a fully equipped computer lab which will help us to reach up to 100 new youth this year.
Click here to view/download directions to our new space and The Cheverus.
To learn more about our youth leadership and education programs, click here to visit our Programs page.
HSTF Youth Get out the Vote
On Monday, October 15, all HSTF youth participated in a neighborhood voter registration initiative. Through the Coalition to Educate, Mobilize and Vote! (CEMV) a collaboration between the Hyde Square Task Force, City Life/Vida Urbana, and the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Council , young people canvassed Hyde/Jackson Square, knocking on doors and offering residents the opportunity to become registered voters. This effort comes in preparation for November elections, and encourages residents to take action on political issues that affect our community. CEMV has been operating for the past six years, and in 2006 alone helped to increase voter turnout in the Hyde/Jackson Square neighborhood by over thirty-five percent.
To learn more about CEMV, please contact Chrismaldi at (617) 524-8303 x 325 or chrismaldi@hydesquare.org
To learn more about CEMV, click here to visit our Organizing Page
Show your support for Civics in Boston Public High Schools!
The youth of the Hyde Square Task Force on Thursday October 18th at 5:00 pm at City Hall for a Hearing on Civics Class in Boston Public Schools. The hearing, which will be held in the City Council Chambers on the 5th floor of City Hall, comes in response to hearing order drafted by HSTF youth with the help of City Councilor Chuck Turner. The HSTF youth-led Civics Campaign seeks to alert city officials and the Boston Public School System to the need for a high school curriculum that prepares students to be active participants in a democratic society.
If you cannot make it to the hearing, there are still things you can do to help: call the Mayor’s Office (617-635-4500) to ask that Civics Class be made a requirement for Boston high school students in the 11th and 12th grades. Help us to ensure that ALL Boston youth receive an education that allows them to politically aware, involved, and engaged!
Click here to read more about our Campaign for Civics in the Boston Public Schools.
Click here to read the Hearing Order drafted by Hyde Square Task Force youth.
Click here to download our Learn Your Rights flyer.
For more information, contact Chrismaldi at 617-524-8303 x 325 or chrismaldi@hydesquare.org
PCCP Alumni Mix it Up!
On Thursday, August 23rd HSTF’s Paths to College and Careers Program (PCCP) hosted its first Alumni Mixer at our newly acquired space in the Cheverus School. The event brought together a dozen PCCP members, from the class of 2003 to the future Freshman Class of 2011, to reconnect before returning to school. The mixer, planned by new PCCP Coordinator Peter Barros, gave alumni the opportunity to socialize, discuss their college experience, and offer advice to the youth in attendance! Another PCCP Alumni Event will be held over the coming Thanksgiving break.
For more information, contact Peter at (617) 524-8303 x313 or peter@hydesquare.org.
Youth Community Organizers Attend City Council Hearing on Civics
As part of HSTF youth’s effort to improve the quality of education that they receive, our Youth Community Organizers had created a campaign to add a civics component to public high school curriculums across Boston. Their next step in this effort is a hearing with the Boston City Council to stress the need for a civics curriculum that prepares students for an active role in a democratic society. The hearing, which will be held at City Hall on Thursday, October 18, comes in response to a hearing order drafted by the YCO’s with the help of City Councilors Chuck Turner and John Tobin.
For more information, contact Chrismaldi at (617) 524-8303 x325 or chrismaldi@hydesquare.org.
HSTF Youth Artists featured during Jamaica Plain Open Studios
On Saturday, September 29th and Sunday, September 30th, the Hyde Square Task Force participated in Jamaica Plain Open Studios, a community-wide event showcasing local artists. This year, HSTF will feature the work of our youth muralists, photographers, dancers, and musicians at our office, 375 Centre Street. Please come out to see the creativity and talent of our youth on display! We also encourage visitors to stop by the Jackson Square T-Station and see how our Youth Community Muralists have transformed the space using public art.
For more information, contact Paul at (617) 524-8303 x 321 or paul@hydesquare.org.
For more information on Jamaica Plain Open Studios, visit www.jpopenstudios.com.
Ritmo en Acción announced as a Coming Up Taller Semi-Finalist!
For the second year in a row, the Hyde Square Task Force was a Coming Up Taller Semi-finalist for its celebrated Ritmo en Acción/Rhythm in Action dance program. In all of its programs, HSTF utilizes a uniquely effective youth and community development model. Youth learn skills in their program area of choice, and as they gain confidence and mastery, share their skills with younger youth and contribute to their community. The Coming Up Taller Award from the President's Committee on Arts and the Humanities is the nation's highest honor for after school and out of school arts and humanities programs. The announcement of the 15 finalists nationwide is expected in late 2007 or early 2008.
For more information, contact Brenda at (617) 524-8303 x 323 or brenda@hydesquare.org.
The Green Team
This summer, seven Hyde Square Task Force youth worked in collaboration with the Mount Pleasant Home to make Jamaica Plain green! This unique summer employment opportunity allowed teens to gain experience in landscaping while learning environmental science. As they planted trees and other vegetation, youth learned about urban agriculture and ecology. Participants also built relationships with those living in the Mount Pleasant Home, connecting with the residents to form a more solid community. At the end of the summer, Green Team member Nancy Cardona, age 15, said “"I love working with the Mount Pleasant Home residents! I learned that we don't only learn from them, but they learn from us too – just like Dottie Ryan (a resident) says!"
For more information, contact Jaime at (617) 524-8303 x 328 or jaime.lederer@gmail.com.
Job Openings!
Don't miss this opportunity to work for the Hyde Square Task Force!
HSTF currently has openings for Office Manager, Paths to College and Careers Program Coordinator and Music Clubhouse Manager. As office manager, you'll help run an exciting, fast-paced office, and have opportunities for professional development and advancement! As Grant Writer, you'll write proposals and do other development work to bring in the funds that make our programs possible! Music Clubhouse Manager you'll play a key role in kicking off a brand new program that is being offered in collaboration with Berklee College of Music!
Spend a Night Out with HSTF!
Step Out in Hyde Square for refreshments and a variety of fun activities for teens, kids and families including: A “One Stage, One Mic” Teen Music and Dance Concert, Kids Fun Night and Family Dance Night.
Click to view our calendar for more details…
READY, SET... CLICK!
A few months ago the Hyde Square Task Force entered a competition through an organization called RE-ZOOM, where we needed to click every day on their website in hopes of winning a $5,000 regional prize... well, WE WON! Thanks to your clicking, and those of our colleagues and supporters, friends and family.
Starting MONDAY, JULY 9, we have a chance to win an additional $100,000 through a national "clicking" contest. We are competing against 20 other non-profits nationwide - but our tech savvy and broad base of supporters gives us a distinct advantage over many of our competitors.
Fun (and learning) in the Summertime!
Spaces are still available in our Arts in the Summer Program for grades 1 – 5 (must be at least 6 years old) and our Youth Summer Enrichment Program for youth entering grades 6 – 8. Programs run from July 9th through August 17th from 9 – 3 (or extended hours 9- 4:30). The cost for the Arts Program is $75/week for regular hours or $100/week for extended hours. There is no charge for Youth Summer Enrichment, though a refundable $50 deposit is required. Any Youth Summer Enrichment Participant may stay for extended hours for a charge of $25/week if he/she has a sibling in the Arts in the Summer program. Sibling discounts are available!
For more information, contact Ana or Jesse at (617) 524 – 8303.
Click to view/download the flyer for our Arts in the Summer Program (Adobe PDF 60KB)
Click to view/download a flyer for our Summer Enrichment Program (Adobe PDF 64KB)
Click to download registration form (Abobe PDF 132KB)
H-CAP Youth Release new CHILL Health Guide
Please join us this Friday, June 29th, from 4-6 pm, as the Health Careers Ambassadors Program (H-CAP) Youth Team of the Hyde Square Task Force host their second annual Book Release Party for H-CAP's C.H.I.L.L. Health Guide. The guide is planned, written and designed by H-CAP youth, a group of 16 low-income and minority youth, ages 14-21, from Jamaica Plain, Roxbury and across Boston. “C.H.I.L.L.”, the name the youth chose for the guide, stands for "Community Health In Living and Learning."
This year the guide will focus on nutrition and fitness, and include information on health risks related to poor nutrition and lack of fitness, as well as practical information on how to eat healthy and stay fit. Participants chose nutrition and fitness as topics in response to the epidemic of obesity and related illnesses among urban youth, and especially low-income, Latino and African American youth.
For more information about the event, the guide, or the H-CAP program, please contact Guy Armand or Jaime Lederer at the Hyde Square Task Force, 617-524-8303, or via email at: guy@hydesquare.org; jaime.lederer@gmail.com
Click here to download a Book Release Flyer in Adobe PDF format (327 KB).
HSTF Annual Meeting - Please Join Us!
The Annual Meeting is an opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments, celebrate with our community members, supporters and friends, and look forward to new challenges and possibilities. The HSTF Annual Meeting will be held this year on May 31st from 5:30 – 8 pm under a tent (rain or shine) on the campus of the Blessed Sacrament Church at 365 Centre Street in Jamaica Plain (map it!). There will be food, music, and fun for all ages. The program will begin at 6:30 and will include: dance and spoken word performances by our talented youth; awards for exemplary community action by our partners State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez, Sociedad Latina, and the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation; and of course, the election of HSTF’s Board of Directors. Beginning at 5:30 we will offer tours of the Cheverus Building, which will soon be home to HSTF’s expanding programs. We hope to see you there!
For more information about our Annual Meeting, contact Paul at (617) 524-8303 x 321 or via email at paul@hydesquare.org.
Click here to view/download the 2006 Annual Meeting flyer (Adobe PDF 108KB)
Ritmo en Acción Cultural Showcase
Please join the Hyde Square Task Force this month as Ritmo en Acción Youth Dancers present a variety of Latin and hip hop inspired dance routines for the community in a dance showcase! The Ritmo en Acción Cultural Showcase will celebrate the diverse cultures of the Jamaica Plain/Roxbury community through multiple forms of Latin dance. The evening will include group routines, solo performances, and an appearance by premier Latin dance company, Hacha y Machete Dance Stylists. The Cultural Showcase will take place Sunday, May 20 from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm in the English High School Auditorium, located at 144 McBride St. in Jamaica Plain. Admission to this event is free and open to the public.
For more information on the Cultural Showcase or to learn more about Ritmo en Acción, please contact Brenda at (617) 524-8303 x 323 or brenda@hydesquare.org.
Click here to view/download the REA Cultural Showcase flyer (Adobe PDF 112 KB)
YLT's Present "Think Before You Judge Me"
Hyde Square Task Force’s Youth Literacy Tutors (YLTs) was hosting an evening of spoken word, poetry, and theater performances dealing with the issue of stereotypes. The event, titled Think Before You Judge Me, was developed entirely by HSTF youth, who created their own spoken word pieces, poems and skits to perform for the community. With the help of local spoken word sensation and former HSTF youth leafer Sofia Snow and members of the New Orleans Women's Artist Collective, a group of New Orleans – based poets, the YLTs have designed a program that includes audience participation as well as performance. The goal of this performance is to raise awareness of the stereotypes that exist in society and how they affect our everyday lives. Think Before You Judge Me will take place on Monday, May 14 from 6:00-8:00 pm at the Connolly Branch Library at 433 Centre Street in Jamaica Plain. Admission is free and open to the public, we encourage you to attend!
For more information on Think Before You Judge Me or the Youth Literacy Tutors Program, please contact Abe at (617) 524-8303 x 325 or abe@hydesquare.org
Click here to download our Think Before You Judge Me flyer (Adobe PDF 120KB)
Join the Hyde Square Task Force at Wake up the Earth!
On Saturday, May 5th the Hyde Square Task Force offeredinformation on programs and upcoming events at the Wake Up the Earth! Festival at Southwest Corridor Park adjacent to the Stony Brook T-Station in Jamaica Plain. The festival, which was from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, is a celebration of community and culture featuring food, live music, and a variety of performances by local artists. In addition to our information table, HSTF will also be selling handmade jewelry and baked goods produced by our Youth Entrepreneurship Clubs.
For more information about Wake Up the Earth! please contact Jesús at (617) 524-8303 x 304 or jesus@hydesquare.org
For more information about the Youth Entrepreneurship clubs, contact Yi Chin at (617) 524-8303 x 303 or yichin@hydesquare.org
HSTF Youth Join Beaver Country Teens to Break Down Barriers
Together with the Social Action Leaders and Student Council from Beaver Country Day School of Chestnut Hill, MA, the HSTF Youth Advisory Council has planned and implemented the first of several all-day trainings on diversity and leadership. These events are attended by all members of the Hyde Square Task Force’s youth teams and many students from the Beaver Country Day School. The first full-day training on February 3rd focused on learning about diversity and forming connections between the two groups. Participating youth felt that the day’s activities succeeded in creating greater understanding and cooperation among the teens. The next meeting with Beaver Country students, hosted by the Hyde Square Task Force, is scheduled for April 28th and will be centered on leadership development and motivating youth to create social change.
For more information on the Youth Advisory Council or this event, contact Jesús at (617) 524-8303 x 304 or at jesus@hydesquare.org.
H-CAP Presents at Urban Agriculture Conference
On Saturday, April 14, HSTF’s Health Careers Ambassadors presented at the Food Project’s 3rd Annual Urban Agriculture Conference entitled “Farming the City: Changing the Way We Think About Food, Hunger and Health.” During the conference, which was held at Roxbury Community College, H-CAP youth spoke on their research dealing with supermarket disparities. Their presentation focused on case studies that H-CAP has conducted, comparing the selection and availability of healthy foods in Jamaica Plain’s Super Stop & Shop with the same supermarket chain in Dedham, a suburb of Boston. The findings of this study are intended to raise awareness about the lack of health and nutrition resources in the immigrant and minority communities that we serve.
For more information on the Health Careers Ambassadors Program, or H-CAP, please contact Yi Chin at (617) 524-8303 x303 or yichin@hydesquare.org
Reaching more youth through collaboration
On April 12, the Berklee College of Music Student Salsa Ensemble played before a packed assembly at the J.K. Kennedy Elementary School in Jamaica Plain. Children and teachers were bouncing in their seats and dancing in the aisles. Twenty minutes before the end of the performance, children were invited up onstage to join in the performance. The elementary school students enthusiastically joined in with the college ensemble as drummers, keyboard players and singers. And young dancers – 4th & 5th graders trained through the Hyde Square Task Force’s new Kennedy In-School Dance Initiative – showed off their newly-acquired salsa footwork.
The Milky Way Hosts a Night In Support of the Hyde Square Task Force
This Wednesday, March 7th, the Milky Way Lounge & Lanes is sponsoring a free DJ night benefiting the Hyde Square Task Force. A variety of local bands will be performing; styles of music include punk, indie and classic rock, as well as hip hop. Admission to the event is free; Milky Way booking and promotions manager has suggested those who attend make a $3.00 donation. All of the proceeds will be given Hyde Square Task Force programs. Please come out and enjoy some live music while supporting the Hyde Square Task Force and the community we serve! The Milky Way Lounge & Lanes is located at 405 Centre Street in Jamaica Plain.
Click here for more information on the Milky Way Lounge & Lanes
Vote for the Hyde Square Task Force!
Re-Zoom, an online organization whose mission is “redefining life for an ageless generation,” is recognizing non-profits that have had a significant impact in the communities they serve. Re-Zoom’s nationwide A Better World grant relies on community members to vote for an organization they believe is creating positive change in the lives of others. The Hyde Square Task Force has been nominated on the regional level, making us eligible for a $5,000 grant based on the number of votes we receive from friends and supporters. In addition, regional nominees with the most votes will be eligible to win ReZoom’s national A Better World grant of $100,000.
Curley E-Clubs Grand Opening a Success!
On Thursday February 15th, the Curley After School Entrepreneurship Clubs celebrated their new business ventures with a successful kick-off event. The Money Maker$, a creative service club, planned and hosted the event which showcased handmade jewelry created by the Dynamic Arts Club and chocolate chip cookies baked by the Cookie Monsterz. Each club also gave a brief presentation detailing their efforts in starting the businesses, and describing what they have learned as young entrepreneurs. The event was attended by Hyde Square Task Force youth, staff and families, as well as local press. Since the Grand Opening, the Cookie Monsterz have been invited to sell their baked goods at local restaurants City Feed and Supply and Bella Luna. Cookies made by the club will be available at both locations on March 10th. The Dynamic Arts group has been hired by the JPNDC to create community-based designs on potted plants as gifts for new home owners in Jamaica Plain. The Money Maker$ are currently organizing a basketball tournament that will take place at the Curley Middle School, scheduled to take place at the end of March. We would like to thank all of our supporters in the community for helping to make the Curley Entrepreneurship Clubs possible!
For more information on the Curley Entrepreneurship Clubs, contact Yi Chin at 617-524-8303 x303 or yichin@hydesquare.org.
For more information on the Curley After School program, contact Ana at 617-524-8303 x324 or ana@hydesquare.org.
Click for information about the Curley Entrepreneurship Clubs in Adobe PDF format
Click to view the Pledge Form in Adobe PDF format
JP Trees and Earthworks Invite Jamaica Plain Residents to Go Green
JP Trees, a local organization, is collaborating with EarthWorks to encourage the planting of “setback” trees on privately owned property near public rights of way throughout Jamaica Plain. JP Trees and Earthworks have volunteered to plant setback trees in the yards of Jamaica Plain property owners during the months of March, April, and May. There is no cost to residents for the trees; EarthWorks only asks that those who allow trees to be planted on their property be willing to care for them. The setback tree program is an effort to create a healthy and sustainable urban community and increase the communal benefits of trees.
Mozart Mural Receives National Endowment for the Arts Award
The Hyde Square Task Force Youth Community Muralists program has been awarded a prestigious National Endowment for the Arts Challenge America Grant. This mural project, lead by internationally recognized muralist Roberto Chao along with HSTF youth, is an effort to promote peace, raise consciousness, and celebrate the cultural diversity of Hyde/Jackson Square. The youth-designed and created mural in Mozart Park will be a nationally recognized example of youth leadership and celebration of community.
For more information on the Youth Community Muralists program, contact Jesús at 617-524-8303 x304 or jesus@hydesquare.org.
Learn more about the National Endowment for the Arts: www.nea.gov.
Task Force Teens Bring Youth Organizing to Harvard
As part of a class in Education Organizing, Harvard Graduate School of Education students Meredith Mira, Thomas Nikundiwe, and Keith Catone spent the fall semester learning from youth community organizers at the Hyde Square Task Force. These graduate students worked with the YCOs once a week during the semester, providing support as educators while becoming familiar with youth organizing. At the end of the semester teens Victor Martinez, Kenny Emiliano, and Ruben Oviedo were invited to present the Youth Community Organizers' Campaign to End Sexual Harassment, along with other aspects of youth organizing, to Harvard Professor Mark Warren's Education Organizing class. This opportunity allowed the YCOs to share their knowledge of youth organizing with the Harvard students, many of whom are future school principals, superintendents, and policy analysts.
For more information on the Youth Community Organizers, or the Campaign to End Sexual Harassment, contact Maanav at 617-524-8303 x305 or maanav@hydesquare.org.
HSTF Executive Director Elected to Boston Foundation Board of Directors
HSTF Executive Director Claudio Martinez has been named to the Boston Foundation Board of Directors. Rev. Ray Hammond, Chair of the Boston Foundation Board, calls Claudio a "community leader with vision" and says "his record of accomplishment with the Hyde Square Task Force puts him at the forefront of the city's new emerging leaders." The Boston Foundation is one of the oldest community foundations in the United States, and is a civic leader in the Greater Boston area.
Click here to read the official press release
JFK Students Get Excited About Dance!
This December, a group of fourth graders enrolled in the HSTF/ Kennedy In-School Dance Initiative impressed teachers and families with their newly developed dance skills in a school-wide performance. The in-school dance program, which is the result of a partnership between the Hyde Square Task Force and the Kennedy Elementary School, is taught by professional instructors from Boston's premier Latin dance company, Hacha y Machete. The program allows fourth and fifth graders to study multiple forms of Latin dance while integrating a literacy component into the curriculum. Weekly dance classes promote physical activity, cultural appreciation, literacy, and self-confidence among elementary school students. One of the students who participated in the program said of the experience, "I feel great because I'm moving around all the time and learn new steps and learn to not be that shy."
For more information on the Kennedy in-school dance program, contact Brenda at 617-524-8303 x323 or brenda@hydesquare.org.
Kids at the Curley Become Entrepreneurs!
Click for information about the Curley Entrepreneurship Clubs
This year students at the Curley Middle School after school program are becoming small business owners. Using a two hundred dollar HSTF investment, students in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades are exploring the basics of entrepreneurship, from designing logos and marketing strategies, to partnering with local businesses to sell their products. Under the guidance of HSTF intern Joshua Livingston, the students have formed three clubs: The Dynamic Arts Club, which makes jewelry from recycled material; the Cookie Monsterz, a baking business; and the Money Maker$, which offers creative services such as hosting the kick-off celebration for the three clubs. This program was inspired by the middle school youth who expressed interest in working and earning money, and is an extension of the Hyde Square Task Force Paths to College and Career Program.
For more information on the Paths to College and Career Program, contact Yi Chin at 617-524-8303 x303 or yichin@hydesquare.org. For more information on the Curley After School program, contact Ana at 617-524-8303 x324 or ana@hydesquare.org.
South African Artists at the Task Force
In an exciting cultural exchange through the Berkana Institute, Hyde Square Task Force teens and staff have partnered with SoMoHo or Soweto Mountains of Hope, a South African organization that uses the arts to promote environmental stewardship and community development. Each week, HSTF staff and youth meet with representatives from SoMoHo to learn about recyclable art making and how it ties into community renewal.
The SoMoHo partnership is part of Hyde Square Task Force’s growing international vision, which will include additional cultural exchanges in upcoming months.
View photos of SoMoHo, HSTF staff and youth in action!
Click here for more information on SoMoHo’s work in South Africa.
YCO's Turn Out the Vote
As voter turnout numbers rolled in on election night, it became clear that the intensive get out the vote efforts of Hyde Square Task Force Youth Community Organizers through the Coalition to Educate, Mobilize, and Vote (CEMV) had been successful – in some of the CEMV precincts, voter turnout increase nearly 30% from the last election! We would also like to thank the many community volunteers who helped us get out the vote, including employees from Comcast and IXIS Asset Management Advisors Group.
View the full report on voter turnout. (.xls document)
2006
Task Force Named Best Nonprofit in Jamaica Plain
Thank you to all of our supporters who voted to name Hyde Square Task Force and our long time collaborator, the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation, Jamaica Plain’s two Best Nonprofit Organizations in the Jamaica Plain Gazette’s 2006 annual poll. Congratulations to our hard-working staff and youth!
View a complete list of the Task Force’s awards and recognition.
Arts Explodes at the Task Force!
From the visual to the performing arts, Task Force teens are taking their creativity to the next level. A new member of the Hunt Alternatives Fund's ARTWorks for Kids coalition, on September 30, Ritmo en Acción will participate in the Blooming Art: Nurturing the Future event, where donors, youth arts service providers, and young artists will celebrate the power of art to change lives. This summer, Task Force Youth Community Muralists completed the exciting third phase of the Jackson Square T station mural project, a unique partnership between the MBTA and Hyde Square Task Force.
You can learn more about these efforts as we open our doors this weekend as a part of Jamaica Plain Open Studios. On Saturday, September 30 (12 pm - 5 pm) meet our teen muralists and view their work, On Sunday, October 1 see Ritmo en Acción perform and talk to the dancers about their work teaching salsa and contemporary dance styles to other area youth. For more information please contact Paul at 617-524-8303 x321 or paul@hydesquare.org .
Click here to watch Ritmo perform in Mozart Park
Click here to view Phase III of the Jackson Mural Project
A Successful Summer - thanks to all our supporters!
As fall approaches we want to say thank you to all of our individual supporters (you know who you are!), who contributed over $3000 to our Hyde Square Task Force summer programs and helped us provide to new opportunities for hundreds of youth this summer! In addition to a wide range of literacy and dance-focused summer enrichment programs for youth and teens during regular hours, HSTF also provided opportunities after hours, including our Evenings In Mozart Park series, and our new Youth Dance After Hours. Our thanks also to the Summer Safety Funder Collaborative and Children's Hospital, whose financial support contributed to our summer success.
View a slideshow from Evenings in Mozart Park.
View a complete list of our funders.
Click here to learn how you can contribute!
Youth Form Inter-generational Bonds, Build Skills
In a new partnership between Hyde Square Task Force and Mount Pleasant Home, eleven area youth are forging strong connections with Mount Pleasant’s elderly residents as they work as urban landscapers, clearing the grounds of the home to complete the first phase of Mount Pleasant’s urban landscaping. In this exciting summer initiative, local youth learn about urban ecology, the history of the Emerald Necklace, safety with tools or equipment, potential environmental dangers like poison ivy or erosion, and landscaping as a career. For more information on the Mount Pleasant partnership, please call Yi Chin at (617) 524-8303 x303 or email her at: yichin@hydesquare.org.
View photos & read more about the Mount Pleasant partnership
Task Force Board President named Patriots' MVP
This summer, the New England Patriots presented Board President Nelson Arroyo with a Community MVP Award. This award honors individuals who exemplify leadership, dedication and a commitment to improving the communities in which they live through volunteerism. The Kraft family and the New England Patriots chose this award for Nelson because of his many years of service to Hyde/Jackson Square and the JP and Roxbury communities.
Summer Programming Combats Youth Violence
Thanks to the Summer Safety Funder Collaborative and Children's Hospital, the Hyde Square Task Force was provided funds to help keep Jamaica Plain and Roxbury safe and fun for youth and their families this summer. In addition to a wide range of literacy and dance-focused summer enrichment programs for youth and teens during regular hours, HSTF will also operate programs after hours, including Evenings In Mozart Park, Wednesdays at 5pm on Mozart & Centre Streets in Jamaica Plain, and exciting new Youth Dance After Hours.
Read a Summer Safety Funder Collaborative press release
Click here for Evenings In Mozart schedule (Adobe PDF, 108 kB)
2006 Meeting Celebrates 15 Years of Youth Achievement
Hundreds of youth and families came out to celebrate with Hyde Square Task Force on a rainy Saturday, June 10, on the grounds of the Blessed Sacrament Church. After a key note speech by Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, attendees listened to live music from DiLe, ate delicious food and watched high quality presentations and performances by all teens from Hyde Square Task Force Youth Teams and Kennedy and Curley After School youth.
Click to view a complete list of our local supporters & volunteers!
Click here to view pictures from our Annual Meeting.
Health Careers Ambassadors Release CHILL Resource Guide
The HSTF Health Careers Ambassadors Program (H-CAP) celebrated a year of hard work and creative energy at a book release party on June 20, where they presented the long-awaited Community Health Information Living and Learning (CHILL), a public health outreach tool to educate youth about important health issues. The event was featured in the June 30 issue of BWH Bulletin, a publication of Brigham and Women's Hospital. For more information on the CHILL Guide or H-CAP, please call Yi Chin at (617) 524-8303 x303 or email her at: yichin@hydesquare.org.
Youth Community Organizers Present BPS Survey Results
On Tuesday, June 6, at The Nurse’s Hall at the Massachusetts State House, HSTF Youth Community Organizers released powerful results of a recent survey of over 500 high school students on the issue of sexual harassment in the Boston Public High Schools. According to Maanav Thakore, a HSTF Community Organizer, “The study clearly demonstrates that sexual harassment is a serious civil rights issue that deeply affects the health and well-being of our city’s young people.” For more information on the Campaign Against Sexual Harrassment or Youth Community Organizing, contact Maanav at (617) 524-8303 x305 or email him at: maanav@hydesquare.org.
View Survey Results (Adobe PDF, 112 kB)
Help us reach more youth than ever before - donate now!
This summer we are expanding our regular programming to engage even more youth and families in safe, community-building activities such as our new Youth Dance After Hours initiative that will reach out to 65 teens across the community and engage them in dance workshops and performance, or our newly-expanded Evenings in Mozart Park community events series which will provide weekly arts and recreational activities in Mozart Park and Hyde Square's Jefferson Field.
As media reports sound the alarm about rising violence this summer, we invite you instead to be part of the solution: join us in reaching out to more youth and families than ever before through these constructive and community-enhancing efforts. Your financial support will help keep our program fees low and enable us to hire dozens of area teens as counselors, teachers, artists, and organizers!
Click here to visit the "Donate" page on our website.
Ritmo en Acción a Coming Up Taller Semifinalist
The Hyde Square Task Force is pleased to announce that the Ritmo en Acción dance team has been selected as a Coming Up Taller Semifinalist by the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. Selected from over 350 nominees as one of 50 semifinalists, this honor distinguished Ritmo en Acción as “one of the top arts- and humanities-based programs in the country serving youth beyond the school hours,” according to the Committee leadership.
Ritmo en Acción - semifinalista para distinción nacional
El Comité de Hyde Square tiene el orgullo de anunciar que el Comité presidencial para las artes y humanidades seleccionó al grupo de baile Ritmo en Acción como semifinalista para recibir la distinción Coming Up Taller. De 350 grupos nominados, Ritmo en Acción tuvo el honor de distinguirse como uno de los 50 semifinalistas por ser “uno de los mejores programas de artes y humanidades del país que le ofrece servicios a los jóvenes después de horas de clase”, según la dirigencia del comité.
Youth Reach "Pinnacle" in Spring Retreat
On Thursday, April 20th, teens from our different youth leadership teams came together for a day-long retreat at the Grand Circle Corporation's Pinnacle Leadership Center in Kensington, New Hampshire. The youth spent the day involved in team building activities, including a high-altitude ropes course! These activities forced teens “out of their comfort zone” and taught them “how to support each other,” according to H-CAP Coordinator Yi-Chin Chen. The teens finished the afternoon by engaging in a 45 minute “SWOT” analysis (Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats) as part of an organization-wide strategic planning process. The youth retreat provides a valuable opportunity for members of our different youth teams to mingle and socialize.
We thank the Grand Circle Corporation for hosting our youth!
Click here to view pictures from our Spring Youth Retreat.
2005
Youth Leadership Curriculum Updated
Last summer, Task Force teens and staff came together in a series of intensive meetings (guided by an experienced youth development consultant) to describe the many skills and competencies youth gain as participants of our youth leadership programs. The five competency levels described in our new Core Leadership Curriculum Handbook acknowledge the different level of skills of a teen new to our programs with one who has become a “Changemaker.” Attainment of different levels of achievement are determined by youth self-evaluation and periodic review by each youth team's supersivor.
Click here to view/download our updated Youth Curriculum Handbook in Adobe PDF format (file size: 420 kB)
Phase II of Jackson Mural Project Unveiled
On Thursday, October 13th, teens from the Hyde Square Task Force unveiled 10 large pieces of artwork inside the Jackson Square T Station along the Orange Line. The large multi-shaped panels celebrate the rich multi-culturalism of the Hyde/Jackson Square area - one of Boston’s most diverse neighborhoods. Part of an ongoing youth campaign against violence in the Jackson Square area, this two-year mural project was a unique collaboration between the Hyde Square Task Force and its youth group; the office of State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez; and the MBTA. With the guidance of internationally known muralist and community artist Roberto Chao, youth from Jamaica Plain and Roxbury worked together to create a more friendly, inviting, and safer transit environment for customers and passersby.
Teens rally in Jamaica Plain to stop sexual harrassment
On August 25th, teens rallied in Jamaica Plain against the sexual harassment they frequently experience on community streets and in their schools, asking for their community’s support to end the offensive behavior. The group designed post cards which say “please treat me with respect” and which provide a list of actions considered harassment. They are distributing them to area residents and stores in the Hyde Square area. The event was covered widely in the Boston press.
Task Force teens placed at four local health centers
On October 24, 2005, the Hyde Square Task Force officially announced the beginning of the Health Careers Ambassadors Project, or H-CAP. Funded through a two-year grant from the Workforce Investment Act (administered by Boston's Office for Jobs & Community Services), H-CAP aims to help youth explore different career opportunities within the health care industry. Local youth between the ages of 14 to 21 are placed in health care internships in which they gain hand-on experiences in a health care setting. Through their involvement with the program, the youth participate in job readiness trainings, job shadows of different health care professionals, and technical trainings to strengthen the skills needed to work in the health care field. Currently, H-CAP is in collaboration with Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center, Brookside Community Health Center, Dimock Community Health Center, and Martha Eliot Community Health Center.
Boston Tobacco Advocacy Project Awards Ceremony
Please join us at Boston City Hall on Thursday, September 15th as we celebrate the accomplishments of the Youth Community Organizers of Sociedad Latina, the Hyde Square Task Force and Whittier Street Health Center in their successful policy work to protect young people from becoming the next generation of smokers!! Thank you BTAP for your commitment and fearlessness, we are extremely proud!!
View/download a bilingual flyer...
Read more about BTAP's recent accomplishments...
2005 Jamaica Plain World's Fair
The 17th Annual Jamaica Plain World's Fair will be held on Sunday, September 11th along Centre St. in the Hyde Square nieghborhood of Jamaica Plain. Please join us for this free event!
View/download a bilingual flyer...
Get Out the Vote!
The Hyde Square Task Force and the Coalition to Educate, Mobilize and Vote are looking for volunteers to work on Get Out The Vote efforts in Jamaica Plain this fall. Volunteer opportunities include door knocking, staffing information tables at upcoming festivals, phone banking, and other related activities. For more information please contact Jesús Gerena at 617-524-8303 x304 or via email at jesus@hydesquare.org.
College-Bound Program Seeking Mentors
Piloted last year, the College Bound Mentoring Program is designed to provide high school seniors with the individual attention that is needed to survive the college application process. The program matches trained community and college volunteers with a Hyde Square Task Force senior for the whole academic year to support him/her with:
- researching different schools
- completing the applications
- editing personal statements
- finding scholarships
The program requires a minimum of a 2 hour commitment per week beginning September through June, and potentials mentors will be asked to attend a 2 hour training prior to the matching. Interested applicants should contact Yi Chin Chen as soon as possible via email at yichin@hydesquare.org, or at the office 617-524-8303 ext. 303.
Learn more about our Paths to College & Careers Program.
A Summer Evening of Youth Performance
On Wednesday, August 3, the Hyde Square Task Force held an "Evening in Mozart Park" to celebrate the talents and diversity of local youth.
View photos from "Evenings in Mozart"
Read a Press Release about this event
Celebrating Youth & Programs at the Annual Meeting
On June 9th, the Hyde Square Task Force held its Annual Meeting outdoors at the Kennedy Elementary School. Nearly 500 youth, family & community members came together for this spirited event, which featured original spoken word, hip-hop and dance performances by Task Force participants from our after school programs for elementary and middle school students and our teen leadership programs.
Youth Achieve Victory in Jackson Square!!!
The Hyde Square Task Force youth arrived at a major milestone and achieved an unprecedented victory on June 1st when Mayor Menino and Boston Redevelopment Authority Director Mark Maloney announced that the Jackson Partners, Inc. Development Team was chosen to develop the several acres of vacant and underutilized land surrounding the Jackson Square T Station, on the border of Jamaica Plain and Roxbury.
HSTF Executive Director on Barr Sabbatical
Executive Director Claudio Martinez, recently named a Fellow of the Barr Foundation, has begun a three-month sabbatical as of June 1st. Claudio began his sabbatical by embarking on a professional development trip to South Africa, together with eleven other recently-named Barr Fellows. Jesús Gerena, recently named Director of Community Development & Organizing, and Brenda Rodriguez-Andújar, who was recently appointed Director of School Based and Cultural Programs, have been serving as Interim Co-Directors during Claudio's three-month absence and have taken on many of his responsibilities during in his absense. Board President Nelson Arroyo, together with other members of the Task Force Board of Directors, have worked closely with program staff to ensure a smooth transition.
Learn more about the Barr Fellows Program.
NDC recognizes Task Force Youth Organizers
The Hyde Square Task Force Youth Community Organizers (YCOs) were presented with a community leadership award in front of several hundred local residents at the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation's Annual Meeting on May 12th. JPNDC staff stated that the youth were being recognized for their leadership and activism around the issues of safety in the Jackson Square area, voter registration and voter turnout in the last several elections. The key role of the youth organizers in the proposed $200 million Jackson Square Development was also highlighted.
State Senator Diane Wilkerson, the keynote speaker at the event, also praised the Task Force teen organizers. Senator Wilkerson noted the need to recognize the youth and their great work in the community. She also noted that there will be a youth and family center built in Jackson Square thanks to the effort of the youth organizers in leading the community process.
Learn more about the YCO's.
HSTF Youth Organizer Honored
BENTLEY College recently named Youth Organizer Lashay Shepard as one of the TOMORROW 25. The international leadership competition was launched by Bentley to identify exemplary leaders of tomorrow. Chosen from hundreds of nominations from around the world, the 25 winners will receive national recognition and interact with high-profile leaders at the inaugural Bentley Leadership Forum in cooperation with TIME magazine set to take place on May 10. The Tomorrow 25 students will also appear in a national ad in TIME magazine as part of Bentley's national campaign.
Celebrating Teen Literacy :: In The News
On Monday, May 9th at the Connolly Branch Library in Jamaica Plain, the Youth Literacy Tutors (YLT's) of the Hyde Square Task Force presented an evening in celebration of literacy. The evening featured a reading by Dominican-born writer Junot Diaz, author of the critically-acclaimed short story collection "Drown", as well as related readings and performances by the YLT's. A book-signing (co-sponsored by Rhythm & Muse booksellers) followed the event, with a portion of proceeds going to benefit the Task Forces youth literacy programs.
Team-Building at the Spring Youth Retreat ::Highlights
On March 16 & 17, more than 30 teens from the Hyde Square Task Force came together for the 2005 Spring Youth Retreat, held this year at the Warren Conference Center in Ashland, MA. For two days, the teens learned more about each other and one another's programs through team-building activities and youth-led presentations. To view photos of the retreat, click on "Team-Building at the Spring Youth Retreat," above.
Proposal for a New Jackson Square::Highlights
Jackson Square Partners, a partnership of the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation, Urban Edge and the Hyde Square Task Force, presented recently-completed proposal for the development of Jackson Square to a crowd of more than 400 at Roxbury Community College on Wednesday, February 9th, 2005. To read a press release describing the new proposal, click on "Proposal for a New Jackson Square," above.
"Discovering Community" Initiative::Highlights
The Hyde Square Task Force recently received $15,000 from The Met Life Foundation to help build stronger ties between the students & staff of the Mary E. Curley Middle School and the community. This initiative builds on the work of the Curley Consortium, a collaboration between Curley staff and the after school & social service providers that work with the Curley school community. To learn more about the effort, please contact Curley After School Coordinator Ana Almeida at (617) 524-8303 x324 or via email at ana@hydesquare.org .
Three Kings Message of Peace::Highlights
On January 5th, 2005, Youth Community Organizers from the Hyde Square Task Force in Jamaica Plain brought a message of peace to commuters at the Jacckson Square T Station in Jamaica Plain. READ MORE >>
Youth Score Anti-Smoking Victory::In the News
On December 8th, 2004, the Boston City Council passed tough new legislation that would revoke the licenses of stores selling cigarettes and other tobacco products to minors. The new law passed thanks to the vigorous advocacy efforts of the Boston Tobacco Advocacy & Prevention Coalition, or BTAP, a group of teens from the Sociedad Latina, the Hyde Square Task Force, & the Whittier Street Health Center. READ MORE >>
Annual Appeal a Success!::Highlights
Over the past month we have received donations from more than 100 individual donors. With amounts ranging from $10 to $500 (and one extraordinary contribution of $2500!), we raised over $8000 UPDATE in our annual year-end appeal. THANK YOU! Your support helps us run our programs and demonstrate our strong base of community support to our corporate, government and foundation funders. FIND OUT MORE about how you can contribute your time and/or financial support to the Task Force >>
2004
An Award-Winning Coalition::Highlights
On November 17th, the Task Force was recognized by the Boston Foundation for its efforts to increase minority voter participation as a part of the Coalition to Educate, Mobilize, & Vote!, or CEMV, a collaboration with partners City Life/Vida Urbana and the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation. Our collective work in voter registration & mobilization has helped increase voter turnout in the last three elections by 80%, 65%, and 55%, respectively, in the largely low-income and minority precincts surrounding the Hyde/Jackson & Egleston Squares.
Task Force Teen Elected to Chair Neighborhood Council Youth Affairs Committee::Highlights
Congratulations to Task Force Board President Nelson Arroyo for his recent election as chairman of the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Council. Other noteworthy appointments include Jesús Gerena, the Task Force's Community Organizer, who was elected vice-chair, and Gian Gonzalez, a teen Youth Community Organizer at the Task Force, who is the newly-elected chairman of the Council's Youth Affairs Committee.
MCC Grant Award::Highlights
On September 13, 2004, the Hyde Square Task Force's youth dance troupe, Ritmo en Acción, became one of 14 new grant recipients through the Massachusetts Cultural Council's prestigious "YouthReach" arts education program.
Ritmo in Action::Highlights
Jazmin Bernabel braced for a tough sell. Sure, a virtually free trip to Paris with her salsa group...
Jackson Square Mural Project::Highlights
Neighborhood youth work with local mural artist Roberto Chao to help “increase the peace” in Jackson Square.