The Lewis Family Foundation, The BASE hosted nearly 400 community residents, local business leaders, educators and student-athletes under a massive heated tent for a festive evening of BBQ, dancing, games and raffle prizes. Guests were treated to a sneak preview of the state-of-the-art facility, which will include expanded space for year-round baseball and softball training along with academic & career programming. The new headquarters will increase the number of urban youth boys and girls ages 5-19 served from 1,500 to 5,000 in a safe space, with extended hours, 7 days a week.
The power of partnerships was loud and clear, with welcoming remarks from Robert Lewis, Jr. and Juma Crawford, President of the Lewis Family Foundation, a key development partner, along with executive support from Kensington Investment Company and Gensler Associates, lead players in the facility’s design and construction, and the Newmarket Business Association.
Noting that The BASE “inspires people to stand a little taller, be a little better, do a little more,” Sue Sullivan, Executive Director of the Newmarket Business Association, announced her group’s commitment to employ as many BASE grads as possible going forward. Her announcement drew thunderous applause.
In an emotional speech, Robert Lewis vowed that “the new narrative starts today,” as his organization broadens efforts to help young people of color become future community leaders.
Roxbury (zip code 02119) “is an inspiring place to be,” he added. “We would not have moved to any other place.”
Thank you to those who were a part of this wonderful celebration! See you at our Grand Opening in 2019!
