Join us at The Meta: Pa’lante’s Youth Leadership Hub
The Meta is open Monday through Friday, from 3 – 7 PM for youth ages 13-19. If you just need to chill and get some food and support or play video games, we got you. If you’re ready, we also have pathways for you to grow as a leader and make changes in your community, and even to get paid while you’re doing it. FAQs below!
Why the Meta?
Hear what people are saying about our drop-in center created by and for Holyoke youth!
an awakening after learning about a new
issue and can get involved to fight for justice.
I feel powerful, I really can make
decisions and have a say.”
Jasmine, Grade 10
Pa’lante Peer Leader“There is space here, to show up as you are, honor those who have come before you and clear a path for those who come after.
It has been amazing for my two older children (age 13 + age 17) to find a place to belong and a way to be involved.”
Kia Burton-King
Parent & Pa’lante Board MemberI have fun and it’s a place where I can relax, where there’s always something to do, and no one is forcing you to do anything.
You get to make choices for yourself. And smoothies!”
Janeyah, Grade 12
Class of ’25Member Registration – Required for All Youth
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is it called the Meta?
A. We don’t want to just keep doing what’s been done. We’re called Pa’lante Transformative Justice for a reason. Just like a caterpillar goes through a metamorphosis, we believe that both youth and our society have a responsibility to keep growing and changing for the better.
Q. Is it mad awkward the first time you visit the Meta?
A. Not at all! Aleyx, one of our alumni staff, greets everyone and will answer any questions you have. We’ll invite you to join in on whatever we’re doing that day, and we will also respect if you just want a quiet and peaceful place to be. We trust you to decide what you need.
Q. You mentioned snacks. What kind of snacks are we talking about?
A. Good snacks! We have a fully stocked kitchen so you can cook for yourself too. And through a partnership with the Food Bank of Western Mass, we now have groceries you can take home.
Q. What’s a community closet?
A. A spot with resources for youth such as seasonal clothing, toiletries, health and beauty products, and even shoes FOR FREE. Want to contribute ? Here are some of the items youth have requested!
Q. How much does it cost to join?
A. Nothing! It’s free. We are funded by grants and donations. Want to support our work? Check out www.PalanteHolyoke.org/donate
Q. I have an idea for a workshop! Who do I talk to about making it happen?
A. Reach out to Aleyx, the drop-in coordinator at Aleyx@PalanteHolyoke.org. If there are interested youth, we will do our best to make it happen!
Q. Who are the adults in the Meta?
A. Aleyx Bernard is our Meta drop-in coordinator. Backing him up is our Co-Executive Director, Luke Woodward who is a licensed Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with adolescents. We also have alumni fellows and staff on site serving as near-peer mentors. Check out our staff page to learn more about our team.