Young people within Ayer and Shirley have helped set the precedent for changemakers across north central Massachusetts and beyond. Integrated within the middle school’s curriculum, UWYV and social entrepreneurship are not just electives, but cultural standards for those in sixth, seventh and eighth grade. This mentality has proved infectious and continues to spread to those at the high school level, where UWYV completed its second academic year. A combination of supportive principals and committed Champions and Allies, with the intrinsic belief that all individuals are capable of creating positive change, has poised young people in this district to take charge of their futures and their communities. From providing comfort to children in hospitals to creating three-dimensional video games, Ventures from Ayer and Shirley this year provided community-benefiting avenues for a wide spectrum of populations to enjoy.

High School