For Immediate Release
February 13, 2007
Contact: Yi Chin Chen, Director of Lifelong Learning and Economic Development
Email: yichin@hydesquare.org,
Tel: 617-524-8303 ext. 303
Middle School Entrepreneurs Host Grand Opening of Businesses
On Thursday, February 15th from 6:30 to 8 pm students in the Hyde Square Task Force After School Program at the Mary E. Curley Middle School will host a Grand Opening event to showcase their newly created small businesses.
Part of the Hyde Square Task
Force Paths to College and Careers Program, students in grades six
through eight have used a $200 start-up investment to transform
entrepreneurial ideas into solid business ventures, participating in
weekly training, and designing logos and marketing strategies. Martin
King, an eighth grade participant states, “The Entrepreneurship Clubs
give me ideas about what I want to do when I grow up.” The students
have formed three clubs: Dynamic Arts,
specializing in handmade arts and crafts; Cookie Monsterz, a
baking business; and Money Maker$, which offers creative
services and event planning. Money Maker$ is hosting the Grand
Opening event this Thursday. Attendees will be able to purchase Cookie
Monsterz chocolate chip cookies and beautiful hand-made jewelry
pieces by Dynamic Arts.
The
student entrepreneurs have partnered with local businesses to market
their product/service to the community. Sweet Finnish, a local bakery
in Jamaica Plain, has sponsored the Cookie Monsterz. According
to Sweet Finnish owner Ulla Monestime, “I am impressed with the
business plan they presented and the energy they have about taking on
future challenges when they first approached me. Not many 13 year-olds
have the same kind of motivation and enthusiasm!” Monestime and Sweet
Finnish allow
Cookie Monsterz to use the commercial kitchen and supervises the
youth as they make their pastries.
The Cheverus School is located at 30 Sunnyside Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.
The Curley After School Program is a partnership between the Hyde Square Task Force and the Mary E. Curley Middle School in Jamaica Plain. The Hyde Square Task Force’s Paths to College and Career Program is a college and career exploration program for youth between the ages of 12 to 21 that focuses on innovative approach to positive youth development.
About the Hyde Square Task Force, Inc.: Through arts and culture, leadership and organizing initiatives, the Hyde Square Task Force develops the skills of youth so they are empowered to enhance their own lives and build a strong and vibrant urban community. For more information please visit: http://www.hydesquare.org.