Community

Annual Summer Kickoff: Bigger Than Us

Launched in 2024, the Annual Summer Kickoff: Bigger Than Us was created to celebrate a powerful moment in the lives of young people across Boston and beyond the close of the school year and the beginning of summer. What started as a community gathering has quickly grown into a meaningful annual tradition rooted in joy, connection, and purpose.

More than just an event, the Summer Kickoff is a space where community, culture, and care come together. Each year, we center a theme that reflects the needs of our community. In 2025, we are proud to spotlight Mental Wellness creating intentional space for healing, reflection, and support.

This event is designed to uplift youth and families by blending celebration with resources. From live music, performances, and art to basketball tournaments and games, we honor the creativity and energy of our community. At the same time, we provide access to free health services, wellness resources, and holistic care ensuring that mental, emotional, and physical well-being are all part of the experience.

The Summer Kickoff is about creating a safe and welcoming environment where people can show up fully as themselves. It’s a place to relax, to connect, and to feel seen. Through reflection spaces, community conversations, and shared experiences, we remind one another that healing doesn’t happen in isolation, it happens together.

At its core, this event is about more than a single day. It’s about building stronger relationships, amplifying youth voices, supporting local businesses and artists, and investing in a healthier, more connected future.

Because at the end of the day, this is and always will be—Bigger Than Us!

Annual Winter Drive

The Annual Winter Drive is a youth-led community service initiative powered by our Youth In Charge members, young leaders committed to making a direct impact where it matters most. Each year, they take the lead in organizing, collecting, and distributing essential resources to individuals and families across our community.

With the support of our dedicated youth development staff, participants are equipped with the tools, guidance, and structure needed to plan and execute a successful drive. Staff work alongside youth throughout the process offering mentorship, leadership development, and hands-on support when needed while ensuring that young people remain at the forefront of decision-making.

Together, they coordinate the collection of fresh produce, non-perishable foods, hygiene kits, toys, and household essentials. What makes the Winter Drive especially meaningful is its personal touch: door-to-door deliveries to elderly residents and families who may not have access to transportation, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most. On the day of distribution, staff are also present to assist with logistics, help manage deliveries, and ensure everything runs smoothly.

More than a donation effort, the Winter Drive is about connection. It bridges generations, strengthens community bonds, and brings warmth during a season when many can feel isolated. For recipients, it’s a reminder that they are seen and supported. For our youth, it’s a powerful opportunity to step into leadership, practice empathy, and experience the impact of giving back firsthand.

At its core, this initiative is designed to instill a lifelong commitment to community engagement. Youth gain real-world skills in organization, teamwork, and service while building confidence and a deeper sense of purpose.

The Annual Winter Drive is not just about meeting immediate needs—it’s about building a culture of care, compassion, and collective responsibility. It’s about showing that when young people are empowered and supported, they can lead meaningful change in their communities.

Fatherhood Program

 Strong families begin with engaged fathers. The Fatherhood Program empowers Somali men to take active roles in their families and communities by building leadership skills, strengthening parenting practices, and creating space for their voices to be heard. Grounded in cultural values and community connection, the program supports fathers in fostering healthy relationships, promoting positive discipline, and contributing to the well-being of future generations.

Our Commitment:

Active Fatherhood: Increase father involvement in children’s education, emotional development, and family communication.
Leadership Development: Build a cohort of father leaders who serve as mentors, facilitators, and advocates within their communities.
Family Strengthening: Support culturally grounded parenting practices aligned with shared values and positive discipline.
Community Voice: Create platforms for Somali fathers to influence community priorities, policies, and service systems.