The BASE Secures Its Roxbury Home for Good: A Testament to Community Commitment

The BASE, a nonprofit organization that uses sports to build teamwork skills and self-esteem in Boston children, has secured its Roxbury home for good. The organization's leader, Steph Lewis, received a call from the landlord two days before Christmas, informing him that the building was being put up for sale. Instead of searching for a new location, Lewis and his team decided to buy the building, raising $2.5 million, including $1.5 million from the Yawkey Foundation. This is a significant milestone for The BASE, which serves over 800 Boston children and teens every year at no charge. The organization's facility, located at 136 Shirley St. in the Newmarket Square area, is ideal for its programs, which combine sports with mentorship and preparation for college and careers. The location next to the ballfields and basketball court at Clifford Park makes it easy for kids to access the facilities.

But what does this mean for the community? "We could be one of the few Black- and brown-run nonprofits that own property in this city," Lewis said. "We are truly saying to the Roxbury community that we are here to stay." This commitment to the community is a testament to the organization's dedication to the young people it serves. So, what does this mean for the future of The BASE? Lewis hopes to take the money that the organization used to spend on rent and spend it on programs instead. This will allow them to expand their services and reach even more children in the community.

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