Assemble

Assemble envisions a diverse community that creates, connects, and learns through the experience of art and technology. Assemble is an open physical space in an urban neighborhood in Pittsburgh. We unite artists, technologists, and makers with our neighbors of all demographics. Assemble provides a platform for experiential learning, opening creative processes and building confidence through making.

Assemble is a community space for arts and technology located in Garfield, in the East End of Pittsburgh. Assemble unites artists, technologists, and makers with our neighbors of all demographics and provides a platform for experiential learning, open creative processes, and building confidence through making.

Through dedicated daily after school programs, Assemble provides a space for children and adults to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM)-based activities in a fun, relaxed environment. We provide a space for learning, community, and public art to improve the quality of life for Garfield residents.

Since our founding in 2011, we have reached over 20,000 youth in the Pittsburgh area, and each year we serve about 1,800 students through sustained programming. In 2015, we hired our first full-time employee, Nina Barbuto, to lead the organization through the next stage of growth. Nina is leading initiatives to solidify Assemble's financial sustainability; create strategic partnerships in the community; and increase the impact of Assemble's programs on the individuals whom we serve.

While on-site programs are open and accessible to all, Assemble specifically targets low-income minority youth living in Pittsburgh. Through daily out of school time programs held in our space in Garfield and six ongoing in-school and afterschool programs at local public and charter schools, Assemble works to increase STEAM learning opportunities for the children who need it most.

Our specific focus on developing STEAM skills has two main goals, one short-term and one much more long-term: 1.) We want all youth to succeed in school, and to feel confident about participation in science, technology and arts classes. 2.) To give students the necessary skills to participate in the 21st-century workforce. Many of our students report that they do not receive the type of instruction that Assemble offers during their school days. Assemble has committed to filling these educational gaps by ensuring that young people are experiencing fun, interactive, and technically rigorous instruction during out-of-school time.

Testimonials

Osaiah, Jerry, and Richard, three brothers from the neighborhood, were very upset for our last day of Assemble Afterschool this May 28. They came every day they could. Their mother instantly signed them up again for summer camps. This will be their second year coming to summer camps. Last year, we were able to offer a scholarship for all three boys thanks to the support of others. Both their father and mother, have said that they "don't know what we are doing… but our boys love this program!" The boys are able to explore and be exposed to many new topics in STEAM learning. We are excited to have these boys' energy and enthusiasm in our programs.

Assemble's in-house programs, Assemble Afterschool and Assemble Summer Camps, fill a critical void in the Garfield community by providing a free, safe, and educational space for neighborhood residents. There are few free or affordable STEAM programs in the local area, making Assemble's services even more critical. As Kiara, one student, recently said, "This is my favorite after school place."

Another parent shared the following about our same this summer, "My son has such a hard time with social events I was nervous about how he would feel about going to camp.
He loved every second of it, can't wait to get back the next day. Thank you so much for giving him a place that's safe and productive."