WHEN: Friday, March 8 to Sunday, March 31, 2024

WHERE: Hibernian Hall

(184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA)

Following one of Actor's Shakespeare Projects’ most acclaimed and successful productions of all time, Seven Guitars, Actors’ Shakespeare Project returns to Hibernian Hall in 2024 for another installment in August Wilson’s American Century Cycle: King Hedley II.

Fresh off of a seven-year stint in prison, King Hedley II (named after his father, who was played by Johnnie Mack in ASP’s Seven Guitars) dreams of going straight. He’s going to open his own video store — even if he has to steal every refrigerator in Pittsburgh to make it happen. Returning home to the Hill District in 1985, King finds that his community is beset by violence, con men, and redlining. As King fights to keep his family afloat, the harsh realities of Reagan’s America threaten to drag him under.

Hailed by Variety in 1999 as “maybe the most passionate work that August Wilson has penned to date,” King Hedley II dives into family tensions and the Black experience in America with Wilson’s signature poeticism and power.

MPDC invites you to chat with Roxbury local and state elected officials in small groups, network with local civic engagement organizations, hear about MPDC's 2024 policy priorities, celebrate the launch of MPDC's Strategic Plan, and break bread with your neighbors and community. 

For more information, please contact Allison Anderson, Civic Engagement Coordinator, at aanderson@madison-park.org.

MPDC's Civic Engagement Team has been hard at work ensuring that more voices are heard as the upcoming Presidential election approaches in November.

Throughout February, MPDC collaborated with Massachusetts Voter Table at various community events, engaging with members, registering voters, and sharing information on civic involvement. In addition to voter registration, MPDC focused on initiatives empowering the community, such as Participatory Budgeting with Better Budget Alliance and Ranked Choice Boston for fairer elections.

The month concluded with a movie night featuring "Amend," highlighting the 14th Amendment's relevance today, inspiring attendees to continue fostering civic engagement and positive change.

This year, MPDC offers young folks the opportunity to apply for The Ralph D. Smith Community Scholarship, The Danette Jones Scholarship, and The Haynes Family Scholarship, with a total of $50,000 to be awarded in scholarships in 2024.

For more information, please contact Yhinny Matos, Youth Workforce Manager, at ymatos@madison-park.org.

In February, MPDC kicked off Fireside Chats, an engaging platform for open discussions on various careers directly related to other departmental staff within MPDC. Thanks to Griffin Thomas, Romario Joseph, Wil Smart, and Laquisa "Q" Burke for their expertise!

The Youth Workforce Team began civics programming with The Marcus Anthony Hall Institute at The Dewitt Center, which included excursions to the Codman Square Library, Fenway Health, and the MA Statehouse. Shout out to Opportunity Youth Employment Program Interns Na'ara Spence and Desean Haynes, who represented MPDC at the Statehouse advocating for equal-paying jobs!

During February school vacation week, youth and staff participated in numerous events, including the Mayor's Youth Summit, the Abundantly Black History Celebration, a Youth Mental Health Podcast Mixer, and an informative session on MPDC's newly launched scholarships.

MPDC welcomes Lili Vornehm, a College for Social Innovation intern, who's already making valuable contributions to the Youth Workforce team.

In February, the Boston Age Strong Commission invited MPDC seniors, staff, and affiliates to view "The Color Purple" in Chestnut Hill. Dressed in vibrant purple attire, seniors gathered at The Dewitt Center, enjoying light refreshments before boarding a packed coach bus for the movie.

Accompanied by seniors from other Boston programs, the group relished being out in the community and socializing. To conclude the trip, all attendees sang and enjoyed each other's company on the journey back to their communities.

The Modern Mentor is bringing a dynamic new program to The Deiwtt Center! With a mission to cultivate a safe space for young ladies in-person and virtually, Modern Mentor empowers 40 participants between the ages of 13 and 24.

Their team of dedicated mentors guides participants in navigating away from negativity, fostering self-confidence, and pursuing their goals with perseverance, courage, and creativity. Over 12 months, the mentorship program will feature workshops covering self-care, financial literacy, violence prevention, and leadership skills.

On Wednesday, February 7th, YW Boston hosted their Lead Boston Program Day at The Dewitt Center. YW Boston is committed to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

The Lead Boston Program Day focused on discussing the topic of class and poverty, examining how participants perceive these issues within society, particularly in Boston. Over 40 professionals convened at The Dewitt Center for the day, where YW staff led them through experiential learning activities. Expert speakers shared insights, and participants engaged in discussions, collectively exploring various aspects of class and poverty.

The event provided a valuable platform for participants to exchange perspectives and deepen their understanding of these complex issues, aiming to foster positive change within the community.

Hibernian Hall celebrated Heart Health Awareness Month in February by hosting its "Fitness Series" event led by mind-body coach Tariq Pinkston. "Fitness Series" is a wellness journey offering a unique blend of activities designed to rejuvenate mind and body. The event was open to all ages and levels, and it included sessions on motivation, fitness, meditation, breathwork, and cardio drums. Refreshments were available to keep our audiences hydrated and energized, with lively music to keep spirits high.

In February, the B-2 (Roxbury) Community Service Office officers facilitated a trip to Northeastern University for residents to participate in MPDC's Meal Prep and Participation (MPP) classes. Led by certified nutritionists, the program offered valuable lessons on meal preparation, preservation, and healthy cooking techniques. Participants were encouraged to attend all four sessions to receive a swag bag and a certificate of completion.

Attending the MPP classes provided residents with practical knowledge on reducing sodium intake and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables. The class also explored various cooking techniques using vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor without relying on salt.

This initiative was conducted in collaboration with Leslie Stafford, MPDC's Health Equity and Wellness Educator, WinnCompanies, and Northeastern University's Office of City and Community Engagement.

To celebrate Black History Month, Leslie Stafford visited the MPDC properties to listen to the stories from the residents about their reflections on Black History. During her visit, Leslie had the honor of meeting with Peggy Holt, a recent recipient of MPDC's Community Catalyst award, to engage in a heartfelt conversation about the impact of Martin Luther King Jr.

Peggy shared her memories and reflections on Dr. King's influence, highlighting his role in advancing freedom and equality. As a leader, Dr. King's teachings inspire Peggy, reminding her to advocate for our communities and stand up for justice.

Sitting down with Peggy to hear her memorable moments of Dr. King was a powerful Black History Month experience, highlighting the importance of honoring the past while striving for a brighter future.

WHEN: Every 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY of each month

WHERE: The Dewitt Center

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.

myimso@yahoo.com or call 617.442.2805.

DEADLINE TO APPLY:

Saturday, June 1st

WHEN: Wednesdays and Thursdays

WHEN: Mondays from January 8 to March 25

WHERE: The Dewitt Center

(122 Dewitt Drive, Roxbury, MA)

Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of African dance, connecting with its roots and storytelling through movement. All levels of experience are welcome! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or taking your first steps, this event is designed for everyone.