On the Grid : Zumix

"Co-Founders Bob Grove and current Executive Director Madeleine Steczynski founded ZUMIX in 1991 as a response to Boston’s worst wave of youth violence. ZUMIX began as a summer songwriting program with 24 youth, $200, and the simple idea that giving youth something to be passionate about could transform lives and elevate communities. Year-round events are organized to provide East Boston residents with access to top-quality arts and cultural events. In January, 2010, ZUMIX moved into the Engine Company 40 Firehouse after a 5 ½ year $4.6 million capital campaign. Today ZUMIX serves over 500 youth per year through after-school and summer programming and 500 through in-school partnerships. Over 10,000 additional adults, children, and families attend our community events and festivals. ZUMIX is an East Boston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to building our community through music and the arts. Holding the belief that music is the most powerful means of developing adolescent self-identity, their award-winning music and creative technology programming is designed to equip youth with the tools necessary to reach their full potential, while creating a safe space for youth to explore who they are and who they want to be. Through community events, ZUMIX provides access to top-quality arts experiences for a low-income, under-served neighborhood." - Nick DiStefano