Interview with YouthBuild Boston's Executive Director, Danyson Tavares!

For the past few years, Pear Associates has had the pleasure of working with YouthBuild Boston (YBB). YBB is on a mission to support young people of color navigate positive pathways to self-sufficiency, neighborhood responsibility, and careers in construction and design industry. Our wrap around supports help the client achieve their grant writing, fundraising, and marketing goals.

To celebrate a monumental grant win to fund their Building Trades Exploration and Pre-Apprentice programs, Pear interviewed YBB’s new Executive Director, Danyson Tavares !

What does YBB mean to you?

"YouthBuild Boston (YBB) is more than just an organization; it represents a beacon of hope and opportunity for youth in our community. It is a place where young people can gain the skills, education, and support needed to build sustainable careers in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. For me, YBB embodies the mission of empowering the next generation through hands-on training, community engagement, and the transformative power of design and construction. It’s a space where we can directly impact lives, foster growth, and contribute to the development of vibrant, resilient communities."

What have you valued most about your work with the Pear team?

"Working with Pear Associates has been incredibly valuable for YBB. What I’ve appreciated most is their comprehensive and strategic approach to fundraising and development. They have provided us with critical support in grant writing, fundraising, and database management, which has significantly enhanced our capacity to secure and manage funding. Pear’s team brings a wealth of experience and expertise, and their ability to integrate seamlessly with our internal team has been instrumental in advancing our development goals. Their guidance has allowed us to focus more on our mission, knowing that our fundraising efforts are in capable hands."

What is one thing you would say to a new Executive Director who is wondering if Pear is the right fit for them?

"To a new Executive Director considering Pear Associates, I would say this: Pear is an excellent partner if you are looking for a team that combines strategic vision with practical, hands-on support. They understand the unique challenges of nonprofit fundraising and are adept at tailoring their services to meet your specific needs. Pear’s team is not just about providing services; they are about building capacity within your organization, ensuring sustainable growth, and helping you achieve your mission. If you are looking for a partner who will work closely with you, provide actionable insights, and deliver tangible results, Pear is the right fit."

As we welcome summer, what is one thing you are most looking forward to this season? "This summer, I am most looking forward to the opportunity to engage more deeply with our community through various YBB initiatives and events. Summer is a vibrant time for us, with many programs and projects in full swing. I’m excited about the prospect of seeing our students apply their skills in real-world settings, particularly through our community construction projects. Additionally, I look forward to the potential progress in our plans for the new youth empowerment center, which promises to be a transformative space for the youth in Roxbury and beyond. Summer brings a sense of renewal and growth, and I am eager to see the positive impacts of our work during this season."