Downcity voices
Our community of students, educators, and neighborhood partners is the heart of our organization. We measure our impact through collaborative dialog and reflection.
CESIBEL MELGAR, Met School Intern, unveiling the Spaziano Elementary Collaborative Learning Space, designed by Met School students with DownCity Design, 2017
“As I started my internship I’m pretty sure my clothes and makeup threw everyone off. Being the only girl was difficult because it felt as if I could not talk to anyone. It was Melita’s encouragement that helped me break out of my shell and prove that I was just as capable as anyone else. I developed confidence. I spoke up... I encouraged teamwork, and then the surprise came. Out of 16 students, I was voted project manager, and this meant that I was in charge. I developed leadership skills that I never knew I had. I learned so much at DownCity Design and I’m incredibly proud of the project that we’ve created. And to all the women and girls out there, I encourage you to be confident and take chances.”
Cesibel working on site at the Spazziano Collaborative Learning Space
Completed Spazziano Collaborative Learning Space in use
“I’m a part of DownCity Design because I have a passion for building and I fell in love with the program. ”
“I’m a part of DownCity Design because it is a place where I can always learn something new.”
“I went through the gauntlet of teaching middle schoolers as a design educator & I’m invested in the mission. ”
“I’m a part of DownCity Design because DCD helps people plan for themselves, from the ground up. ”