Main Streets-Allston Village

Allston Village Main Streets is a volunteer-driven nonprofit that supports the Allston Village business district. Its goal is a thriving, safe and friendly commercial area, and it works toward that by helping neighborhood businesses, beautifying the district and promoting Allston’s health, cultural and artistic life. The neighborhood is a young, artistic and diverse corridor centered on food and entertainment, and the organization works to keep it a lively destination for residents and visitors.

Founded in 1996, the group provides technical assistance to new and existing businesses, finds grants for maintenance and design improvements, hosts events that draw people into Allston and advocates for the neighborhood. A small staff plans and runs its programs with help from volunteers and community partners. Executive director Steve Marcelin brings grassroots experience running tree lightings, farmers markets and cultural festivals, and program manager Genesis Lara has a background in event production from MassArt.

What to Know

• It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
• Volunteers can join committees for events and promotions, design and beautification, or diversity and advocacy.
• Community partners help fund its programs.
• The organization is part of the Boston Main Streets network.