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What We Learned From CYD Organizations During COVID-19

Erik Holmgren, Program Manager

Young man with a buzz cut, glasses, a colorful face mask, wearing a tie-dyed hoodie
Youth reflecting on the changing the world. Photograph by a young artist with Elevated Thought.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, 74 Creative Youth Development organizations in Massachusetts were forced to pivot, without preparation or training, to remote programming. These organizations faced a unique set of challenges in working with communities which were disproportionately affected by the virus and with young people who were already experiencing significant and systemic challenges in their lives.

Mass Cultural Council has compiled final report data from FY20 YouthReach and SerHacer grant recipients to offer an analysis of what this cohort went through during the first months of the pandemic. This report:

  • Details the pivots made by CYD programs during COVID-19
  • Provides an overview of the needs of the field going forward
  • Outlines some of the steps funders may take to partner with these organizations as they move their essential work ahead in communities throughout Massachusetts.

Read the Full Report


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