PITTSFIELD — Youth Alive, the multicultural arts program founded in 1995, celebrated its 30th anniversary this weekend at the Berkshire Innovation Center, honoring decades of dance, music, and mentorship for Berkshire County youth.
The event reunited current participants and alumni who reflected on how the program’s step, hip-hop, African dance, and percussion offerings have helped them find confidence, community, and cultural pride.
Founded by Shirley Edgerton, Youth Alive and its sister mentorship program ROPE continue to uplift young people of color through arts education, leadership development, and global learning opportunities, including cultural exchanges in Africa. As the organization plans for its next chapter, its mission of resilience, empowerment, and multicultural celebration remains firmly at the center.