My name is Brittany Robinson Perez and I am 16 years old. I was born and raised in Lowell, Massachusetts and I’m currently a junior at Lowell High School. Lowell is a very diverse place that allows for unity among people from many different places. Although to me it’s a small city, a lot of growth and potential comes out of it.

I became familiar with the United Teen Equality Center (UTEC) through my older sister. I would hear about all the cool things they offered, but I was too young to join. I couldn’t wait for the day that I turned 13 and I could finally become a member. Once I joined I learned all about the eclectic programs they have. I soon joined the step dance team called the Floor Breakaz and the salsa team. I am also a part of the leadership team, design team, work on the fundraising committee and am on the Board of Directors.

Because UTEC is a “by teens, for teens” nonprofit organization, for very adult position there is a teen position. I am currently working in the development department with three adult staff members. My responsibilities include sending out information packets to educate people about UTEC, creating a monthly newsletter that informs the community about UTEC’s events and update about the youth we serve, and data processing to keep track of all our donors and funders. I also help plan house parties to introduce more people to the mission and activities of UTEC.

Being a part of UTEC has made me realize so many different important things over the years. When I was younger, I felt immune to all the stories of people being shot and gangs taking over the city. Attending UTEC has made me realize the true importance of these violent acts and why doing something about it is so necessary. That is why I am proud to volunteer for annuals events held by the UTEC such as peace in Action. [Peace in Action is an annual performance event created by UTEC for teens to express their feelings about violence in their community]. I volunteered as an MC, which allowed me to use my voice to speak up about the problems Lowell faces every day.

Working at UTEC really affects me because I know I’m giving back and doing something good for the community that served me for so long. I just hope that more people become involved with things like Peace in Action in order to better themselves and their community because that is what it has done for me.