Today we’d like to introduce you to Hailey Moschella.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Hailey. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Life began anew for me when I moved to the area in 2015. My son was nearing his first birthday and I began building my community through coordinating O+ Festival in Haverhill, an organization which values art and wellness as equally important entities in strengthening our collective well-being. I became immersed in the bountiful culture of a city I quickly adopted as my home. I was connected with another recent transplant who enthusiastically jumped into the intensive role of O+ art coordinator. Recognizing in one another the same passion we held for building community, Sarah LoVasco and I knew we were going to work together in other capacities. Just a few months later, an opportunity arose that we couldn’t pass up. The Switchboard was born out of an eagerness to be connected to others and a desire to be a connecting force for others.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The establishment of The Switchboard has been the smoothest road I’ve been on in awhile. It’s been met with few tribulations and a great deal of support. Having folks in our corner believing in our success has been integral in launching something new, new to us and new to our community.
The Switchboard – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
The Switchboard is a community driven gallery, workshop and event space. The goal is to connect the people of Haverhill through arts-based programming. There are a lot of artists and makers in Haverhill but not a lot of places for them to showcase their work and create with others. Our rotating gallery wall and retail area highlight the work of those who contribute a great gift to our community. Our bi-weekly workshops give folks a chance to be in a physical space with others, while learning a craft or trade. Surrounded with people, hands busy, exchanging ideas, the space comes alive. We know the time is now to unite, and we look forward to seeing what The Switchboard will grow to become.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Embarking on something new, beyond our realm of comprehension, opens up a world of education. I feel most successful after putting myself in new, often uncomfortable, risk-taking learning environments that leave me with a strength to continue thriving and also to continue learning from the plethora of mistakes and challenges we’re faced with. Success isn’t found from achievements but rather from continuously setting goals and exploring the unknown.
Contact Info:
- Address: 43 Washington Street
Haverhill, MA 01832 - Website: theswitchboardhaverhill.com
- Email: theswitchboardhaverhill@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/switchboard_haverhill/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/switchboardhaverhill/
Image Credit:
Betsy Harder
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
