In an area too often deprived of creative amenities, a fresh vision is flourishing—one that prioritizes innovation, local opportunities, and collective growth. The Youth Design Center (YDC), a Brooklyn nonprofit committed to opening new horizons for youth via design and technology, has introduced The Corner by YDC, Brownsville’s inaugural creative coworking, production, and makerspace.
This Saturday, July 26, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM, join the Open House celebration at 112 New Lots Avenue. Attendees can experience youth-hosted tours, interactive demonstrations, and a joyful event showcasing creative community-driven change.
Designed for Brownsville, Crafted by the Community
The Corner is not just another office—it’s a creative headquarters for artists, techies, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to pursue dreams close to home. Reasonable membership prices grant entry to a Media Lab, Fabrication Lab, private meeting pods, and creative tools for businesses and projects.
“This space is what I needed growing up in Brownsville,” said Quardean Lewis-Allen, YDC’s Founder and Executive Director. “We transformed an empty storefront into a dynamic place fostering creation and opportunity, right here at home. The Corner demonstrates that young people and creatives deserve top-tier facilities.”
Transforming Ambition into Action
Lewis-Allen, a Harvard-trained architect and proud Brownsville resident, established Youth Design Center in 2013 to chart new careers for youth from underfunded backgrounds. The Corner marks the next level, set to benefit over 300 local youth and adult creatives annually, providing access to leading tools and collaborative spaces.
Support from Brooklyn Org, Comic Relief US, Comcast NBCUniversal, and key funding by NYC Councilmember Chris Banks made this vision possible.
“None of this could have happened without our partners,” noted Lewis-Allen. “Together, we’re creating more than a physical area; we’re realizing a future built on fairness.”
Open House Highlights
Expect the following on July 26:
– Guided tours by local youth
– Demos of media production and fabrication equipment
– Meet-and-greet with the YDC staff and interns
– Food, music, and networking with neighborhood innovators
WHEN: Saturday, July 26 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: 112 New Lots Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11212
ADMISSION: Free. Everyone is welcome. RSVP: https://youthdesigncenter.org/events
For more details: https://youthdesigncenter.org/thecorner
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