Distressed by gang violence in Lowell, some teenagers wanted to find a safe and neutral place to hang out. With help from community leaders they formed UTEC in 1999 as a center where 13-23 year-olds could find resources, develop new skills (including community organizing), and simply “hang.” UTEC’s core values are “Peace, Positivity, and Empowerment,” and today over 1,000 youths participate in 20 classes ranging from culinary arts, video production and music recording, to GED preparation. Programs have been so popular that UTEC is now developing its own businesses — in PC repair, video production and catering. A Streetworker Team has mediated over 50 gang conflicts and held two peace summits for gang members. UTEC wants to keep growing, but that requires more space; its original location, the parish hall of St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, is no longer available so it has moved into inadequate temporary quarters. With the pro bono services of an architect provided by the Jericho Road Project, UTEC has launched a $4 million capital campaign for a new building. They are ambitious and successful, but they need all the help they can get. If that appeals to you, here is your chance to join them.