Dorill Initiative

Partnerships are essential at Grand Street to help make the best programs and services available to our community. Over the past few years, we've cultivated a partnership with Dorill Initiative, an arts and cultural institution that seamlessly trains At-Promise Youth to tell their raw, authentic stories through high-caliber artistic mastery, bold academic inquiry, intentional self-awareness and civic action. 

Founded by Lower East Side native Tareake Dorill Ramos, Dorill Initiative partners with Grand Street through Project Speak Out Loud (PSOL) to guide LGBTQ+ youth as they tap into their authentic artistic voice. The program brings in guest artists to teach dramatic arts to PSOL members and provides workshops.

But our partnership is more than just trading program offerings. Our collaboration is rooted in ensuring that each organization can make strides towards individual and mutual goals.

"These partnerships address imbalances and ensure all stakeholders feel valued and heard. In a sector where resources are limited, restorative partnerships foster trust and collaboration, allowing for a holistic problem-solving approach that prioritizes community needs." - Tareake Dorill Ramos, Founder and CEO, Dorill Initiative.

The roots of this partnership are not only in the mutual interests and commitment between our organizations, but also in a deep friendship between CEO Tareake Dorill Ramos and Grand St. Settlement CEO Robert Cordero.

“Tareake’s enthusiasm, vibrant spirit, and artistic vision are infectious. By partnering with a passionate team like Dorill Initiative, Grand Street can provide programs that build power with our neighbors in ways that aren’t accessible to our community,” - Robert Cordero, CEO, Grand St. Settlement.

To learn more about the excellent work happening at Dorill Initiative or to enroll in their programs for youth, visit their website at www.dorill.org.