Our Model
To nurture and amplify the voices, creativity, and power of youth by grounding them in Afro-Latin culture so they can advance justice in their communities.
HYDE SQUARE TASK FORCE THEORY OF CHANGE
How our mission, programs, community work, and long-term outcomes connect
HSTF’s theory of change shows how our youth-centered programs and community work help young people deepen their connection to Afro-Latin arts and culture, grow as leaders, and contribute to a stronger Boston’s Latin Quarter.
WHO WE WORK WITH
HSTF engages with youth and community.
Youth
- Predominantly Latine-identified youth
- Youth living and/or attending school in Boston
- Youth interested in learning about Afro-Latin arts and culture, making a difference in their community, education and career support, and wellbeing
- Ages 6–25, with a particular focus on youth aged 13–25
Community
- Members in Boston’s Latin Quarter and beyond
- Artists, in particular Afro-Latin artists
- Partners, including schools, libraries, businesses, and organizations
WHAT WE DO
Key areas and programs
At HSTF, Afro-Latin arts and culture are the foundation for how we support young people, build community, and connect our work across education, wellbeing, civic engagement, and placekeeping.
Placekeeping and Community Engagement
Building community connections and preserving Boston’s Latin Quarter as a center of Afro-Latin culture.
Education and Career Support
Helping youth prepare for school, college, career, and adulthood.
Afro-Latin Arts and Culture
Supporting youth creativity, confidence, and cultural connection through arts and performance.
Wellbeing
Creating spaces where youth feel safe, supported, connected, and ready to grow.
Civic Engagement and Youth Organizing
Helping youth use their voices and take action on issues that affect their communities.
OUR PROGRAMS
Where young people grow as artists and leaders
We engage young people through arts, organizing, and cultural learning—supporting their growth as leaders at every stage.
Ages 6–13
Artes
Culturales
Afro-Latin arts classes in dance, music, and theatre
Grades 8–12
Jóvenes en Acción
Arts, education support, and civic engagement for teens
Grade 11–Young Adults (up to age 25)
Caminos
College and career support and networking to achieve goals
(Ages 15-19)
LSJS Youth
Organizing
Youth-led advocacy and community organizing
(For Schools)
Learn Through Dance
Afro-Latin dance and culture for classrooms
Not exactly sure
where to start?
Explore our programs to find the right fit based on age, interests, and experience.
WHAT WE ACHIEVE
Youth and community outcomes
Youth
- Deepen their connection to Afro-Latin arts and culture
- Become confident changemakers engaged in building just communities
- Gain the confidence and skills necessary to thrive in adulthood, including financial literacy, self-advocacy, and leadership
Community
- Gains greater access to Afro-Latin arts and culture
- Benefits from youth voice, creativity, and action
- Maintains and builds upon its rich Afro-Latin cultural history
HSTF ASSUMES THAT IF WE PROVIDE...
Youth and community outcomes
If We Provide
- High-quality Afro-Latin arts and cultural programming
- Education and career support through adolescence and young adulthood
- Civic engagement education, leadership skills training, and youth organizing opportunities
- Wellbeing activities and support
- Opportunities for community members to build connections through placekeeping activities and community engagement
Then...
- Youth will have a deep appreciation for the arts, become leaders and changemakers, positively impact their communities, and thrive in adulthood
- Youth will develop strong ties with their cultural, racial, and ethnic identity, which can act as a protective factor to the effects of trauma and a source of resilience in adulthood
- Boston’s Latin Quarter will be a strong cultural anchor and a center of Afro-Latin arts and culture
