In a Brooklyn neighborhood often lacking creative resources, a bold initiative is blossoming—emphasizing innovation, opportunity, and unity. The Youth Design Center (YDC), a nonprofit organization committed to helping local youth excel in design and technology, has recently launched The Corner by YDC, marking Brownsville’s first creative coworking, production, and maker facility.
This Saturday, July 26, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, all are invited to a special Open House at 112 New Lots Avenue. The event will offer young-led tours, hands-on activities, and a vibrant showcase of how creativity can energize community growth.
A Neighborhood Space, Built For and By Brownsville
The Corner extends beyond being a workspace—it’s a launchpad for designers, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and tech leaders aiming to manifest their ambitions nearby. Affordable membership grants access to a Media Lab, Fabrication Lab, meeting spaces, and resources essential for content and business development.
“I wished for a place like this growing up in Brownsville,” said Quardean Lewis-Allen, Founder and Executive Director of YDC. “We’ve reinvented a formerly vacant location into a hub where creativity and economic empowerment thrive right here. This proves young talent and working creatives deserve top-quality environments.”
An Idea Realized
Lewis-Allen, a Harvard-trained architect and native of Brownsville, started Youth Design Center in 2013 to pave pathways in design and tech for youth in under-resourced communities. The Corner amplifies this mission, aiming to engage 300+ youth and adults annually, offering access to modern tools and shared space.
The project drew support from Brooklyn Org, Comic Relief US, and Comcast NBCUniversal, plus essential equipment funding by NYC Councilmember Chris Banks.
“It wouldn’t have been possible without our supporters,” Lewis-Allen added. “Together, we’re building both a space and a vision for a more equal future.”
Open House Information
At the July 26 Open House, you’ll find:
– Youth-driven tours of the new coworking and production spaces
– Interactive demonstrations of media and fabrication equipment
– Opportunities to meet the YDC team and their interns
– Music, refreshments, and an energizing networking atmosphere
WHEN: Saturday, July 26 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
WHERE: 112 New Lots Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11212
ADMISSION: Free entry for all. No RSVP necessary but encouraged at https://youthdesigncenter.org/events
Discover more about The Corner: https://youthdesigncenter.org/thecorner
