Dozens of middle and high school students gather daily at The Garage Community and Youth Center, a converted car repair shop in Chester County, Pennsylvania. The center provides academic support, arts and cultural programs, meals, gyms for physical wellness, a makerspace for creative activities, and weekly community service projects.
Kristin Proto, a University of Pittsburgh alumna and executive director of The Garage, manages the center’s operations. She leads initiatives such as the Career Compass program—a paid summer internship that connects youths aged 16 to 18 with mentors and career opportunities while focusing on life and leadership skills.
The Garage began operating nearly 20 years ago in Kennett Square to serve mainly Latino youths whose families work in local mushroom fields. It has since expanded with an additional site in Avondale. Each year, the center serves about 500 students, many of whom are first-generation Americans. Former participants often return as staff members or volunteers.
Proto joined The Garage about ten years ago after shifting her career path from engineering to education and community service. After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh with studies in history, political science, religion, and Asian studies, she participated in AmeriCorps in Pittsburgh teaching English to immigrants and refugees.
Reflecting on her role at The Garage, Proto said: “Trust is everything. Families allow us to serve their kids because we’ve been here, we’re of the community and they know we’ll walk with them. For a lot of students, The Garage is a place that helps them imagine a future.”
The story was featured in Pitt Magazine’s Winter ’26 issue as part of its coverage on University of Pittsburgh alumni making an impact across Pennsylvania.
