Newton, Massachusetts is a city with a mean income of about $190,000, according to Data USA, and a 96% graduation rate according to the U.S. News and World Report. Newton, of course, is generally considered a ‘rich’ town. As such, I did not initially think that my town had many problems with poverty. They were never our problems; they were always someone else’s. They were not to be seen in our everyday lives. 

BranchOut! co-founders engage attendees with their STEM trivia game, promoting STEM education and mentorship. BranchOut! was proud to participate in the 3rd Annual Civic Expo  hosted by Burlington Buzz in partnership with the Town of Burlington at Burlington High School. This free, family-friendly event brought together town departments, boards, commissions, and local nonprofits — all under one roof — giving residents a behind-the-scenes look at how Burlington operates and ho

That climb was exhausting, but it pales in comparison to the metaphorical mountain Asian Americans have been forced to scale for centuries. Our history in this country has been one long, steep ascent against a landscape of exclusion.

On February 18th, a group of high school students from the Boston area visited one of Harvard University's research labs in Cambridge. Organized by BranchOut! Boston, this visit offered the students from high schools a firsthand look at the world of scientific research and innovation.

The BranchOut! LA Chapter was founded in 2025 with a simple yet impactful mission: to make science, math, and the arts accessible and engaging for young students. The chapter aims to promote curiosity, build confidence, and prepare students for a future in STEAM. At the same time, the team works to promote cross-cultural understanding from an early age.  At the center of the LA Chapter's work are interactive STEAM activities designed to make learning fun and meaningful. Rathe

This New Year’s Day was freezing cold. Newton City Hall, though, buzzed with life as my BranchOut group and I made our way upstairs through the crowds. The inauguration of Marc Laredo as the 32nd Mayor of Newton, Massachusetts, was about to begin.  The audience in the City Council Chamber included people from all walks of life. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey was there, as was Chief Justice Kimberly Budd of the Supreme Judicial Court, both to the side of the podium. Sever

BranchOut! Boston (Newton, Lexington, and Cambridge Chapters) had the honor of attending the inauguration of the new mayor at Newton City Hall on January 1st, 2026.

On October 18th, the Boston Chapter of BranchOut! had the wonderful opportunity to participate in the vibrant Cambridge Block Party. This lively community event brings neighbors together to celebrate local culture and creativity. We collaborated closely with the Community Art Center, a hub for fostering artistic expression and community engagement.