As Providence Young Makers enter the spring semester, we have many updates about our programming. 

We are thrilled to announce that PVDYM has deepened its relationship with Providence After School Alliance (PASA) and is now partnering with them for three programs: classes are being held at Gilbert Stuart Middle School, South Providence Library, and Wanskuck Library. These programs allow our staff to support programming in the middle schools while also provide the opportunity for youth to get comfortable in their local libraries.

At Gilbert Stuart Middle School, Brenda Adames is teaching the students about circuits. They’re learning how to solder and make robot pins with LED lights. “It’s inspiring to see the students learn and apply their skills to create something new,” Brenda tells us.

At Wanskuck Library, Owen Cuseo is supporting the students as they explore textile arts, including sewing, embroidery, and crocheting. We’re excited to see their creativity and skills in action as they create beautiful and functional pieces.

Students from Roger William Middle School are thrilled about animating using clay. On the first day of class, they came into South Providence Library with great enthusiasm and told Pedro Polanco exactly what they wanted to create and build. It’s heartening to see such creativity and passion among our young makers.

We’re excited to be back to a full staffing level this spring, which means we can offer even more learning opportunities. In addition to the partner programming with PASA, we are able to offer open makerspaces once a week at four different libraries: Wanskuck Library, Knights Memorial Library, Mt. Pleasant Library, and South Providence Library. As always, we could not do it without our cohort of amazing teen interns who provide programing vitality and a near-peer perspective that is priceless to the middle school youth. With our expanded reach, we’re delighted to be able to offer more opportunities for youth across Providence to explore their creativity and build new skills.