The Garage (youth center)

THE GARAGE is a non-profit all-ages music venue and recording studio located in Burnsville, Minnesota, a southern suburb of Minneapolis. It is a mutli-functioning facility that not only offers shows on a weekly basis, but is also home to a number of programs centered around the music industry such as: recording engineering, live sound production, arts journalism, concert photography, and venue operations.

Named "Best All Ages Venue" in the Twin Cities by City Pages THE GARAGE has been a launching point for many young artists as well as music industry professionals.

In 1995, the Burnsville city developed the idea to build THE GARAGE as a multi-purpose community center. Although initially voted down, the idea was given momentum when in 1997 grants were obtained to cover the operational costs of a youth center.

THE GARAGE was opened on July 17, 1999 offering after-school and weekend activities for the youth of Burnsville by hosting support groups, learning classes, speakers, awareness benefits, fundraisers, music, concerts and parties. This led to Burnsville students launching the Minnesota Teen Music Association (MTMA), giving teenage musicians responsibility for organizing and implementing THE GARAGE as an all ages venue.

In 2006, a large project was approved, with the donation of three adjoining Burnsville City Council's maintenance garages. This would allow the venue to double in size and add several new areas, including load-in bays and a gym.

From 2006-2012, THE GARAGE flourished as both a music venue but also as an after school option for many of the youth in the Burnsville area. Robust and diverse programming options coupled with large weekend crowds helped cultivate a supportive and strong community.

In the year 2013, the process began of transforming THE GARAGE into a 501c3 nonprofit music venue under the guidance of Twin Cities Catalyst Music. With the City of Burnsville maintaining support of the transition work began towards a sustainable future for the venue.

Renovations to the bathrooms and the addition of a cafe, courteously of the Burnsville Youth Foundation began in the winter of 2014.

Once the changes were complete in July of 2015 THE GARAGE reopened under the management of Twin Cities Catalyst Music as a nonprofit venue bringing equitable access to young people who want to see, experience, and participate in love music.

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Wikipedia