The Loop Lab’s Loop Dreams Fundraiser Raises $56,000

BOSTON, Mass. – On Oct. 18, more than 150 guests gathered to celebrate diversity in the media arts industry during The Loop Lab’s inaugural Loop Dreams fundraising event. The event showcased the nonprofit’s education and workforce development programs, which create pathways for women and young people of color into the media arts world. Highlights included work by Loop Lab Academy students and projects produced by current apprentices and employed alumni in the Loop Lab Studio.

The evening began with a cocktail reception at the Atrium, featuring remarks by Loop Dreams emcees Kwani Lunis of NBC Boston and Lee Hill of GBH, with DJ Chinua Unites providing music. Guests later transitioned to the Yawkey Theater for a speaking program, during which Loop Lab Founder and Executive Director Christopher Hope shared the nonprofit’s vision to end inequality and racism through digital storytelling.

"Loop Dreams is not just about raising funds. It’s about raising expectations for what young people of color can achieve when given the right resources and support," says Hope. "The inaugural event marked the beginning of a new era for The Loop Lab as we continue to grow, innovate, and empower the next generation of media creators."

Governor Maura T. Healey and City of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu joined the program via special video messages, followed by the presentation of the first-ever Dream Award to State Representative Marjorie Decker. The award ceremony was interspersed with captivating performances by local artists Letta Neely and Alyssa Wang. The night concluded with dessert, dancing, and more tunes by DJ Chinua Unites in the Atrium.

"I am inspired by The Loop Lab and grateful for the opportunities they provide in our community," says Representative Decker. "Chris Hope and his team have created a space where young people of color can develop critical skills in videography, photography, and audio production, opening doors to career paths that are too often out of reach."

The inaugural Loop Dreams fundraiser raised $56,000, which surpassed the nonprofit’s original $55,000 goal. Money raised will directly support The Loop Lab’s mission to train students using state-of-the-art AV and creative technology. These funds will also help expand the Cambridge-based nonprofit’s footprint beyond Boston, creating more employment opportunities for BIPOC individuals in the media arts industry. To make a donation, visit: https://givebutter.com/tllgeneral.

About The Loop Lab

The Loop Lab is a BIPOC-led nonprofit closing opportunity gaps in the media arts industry for women and young people of color through education, employment, and entrepreneurship. Not only are its programs free for all participants, but students are also paid to learn, subsidized for transportation costs, and offered up to 30 college credits upon completion. Since its founding in 2017, The Loop Lab has grown from a neighborhood-based initiative to a multi-community champion for social justice, advancing equity, diversity, and career opportunities in the AV and media arts sectors. For more information, visit: www.looplab.org.

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