Youth Design Center Awarded $100,000 Spark Prize by Brooklyn Org
Photo: Creative Apprenticeship Program 2023 Summer Cohort Graduation
We are thrilled to announce that Youth Design Center has been awarded the prestigious $100,000 Spark Prize by Brooklyn Org for our impactful work in closing the racial wealth gap for creative youth in Brooklyn. This honor is a testament to our commitment to fostering positive change in our community and empowering the next generation of creative minds.
In their recent article "5 Brooklyn Nonprofits Igniting Change in 2024: Our $100,000 Spark Prize Winners", Brooklyn Org highlights the outstanding efforts of Youth Design Center and our fellow winners. It's an insightful read that sheds light on the transformative work happening across Brooklyn.
Closing the Racial Wealth Gap
At Youth Design Center, we believe in the transformational power of creativity to break barriers and create opportunities. The racial wealth gap remains a significant challenge, and our organization is dedicated to addressing this issue by providing resources, mentorship, and support to creative youth in Brooklyn and beyond.
The Spark Prize from Brooklyn Org will enable us to renovate our new maker space in Brownsville to expand our programs, reach more aspiring young creatives, and make a lasting impact on the racial wealth gap in our community. We are grateful for this recognition and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We extend our deepest gratitude to Brooklyn Org for their commitment to supporting organizations that drive positive change. This Spark Prize is not just a financial boost; it's a vote of confidence in our mission and the incredible potential of the youth we serve.
We also want to express our appreciation to everyone who has been a part of Youth Design Center’s journey—our dedicated Board, team, partners, mentors, and, most importantly, the creative youth who inspire us every day.
From our Founder and Executive Director, Quardean Lewis-Allen:
"Youth Design Center extends heartfelt gratitude to Brooklyn Org for recognizing our unwavering dedication to bridging the racial wealth gap among youth in the vibrant Brownsville community and throughout the Borough. As we celebrate a decade of youth-led design excellence, this timely Prize marks a pivotal moment, fueling the evolution of our new maker space into a cutting-edge facility for creative exploration, truly befitting the aspirations of our youth. We feel privileged to have Brooklyn Org woven into the fabric of our narrative, serving as the catalyst for this significant milestone."
Join Us on This Journey
As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to join us on our mission to close the racial wealth gap for creative youth. Follow our journey on social media, share our story, and explore ways you can contribute to making a difference.
Thank you for being a part of Youth Design Center’s community. Together, we can spark positive change and empower the next generation of creative leaders.
Stay tuned for more updates, and let's continue making a difference!
Join us in celebrating this incredible milestone at the 2024 Spark Breakfast on March 5th at the Brooklyn Museum. Tickets + Info
