Thank You for Your Support of Urban Media Arts

Thank you for Supporting UMA

Dear UMA Members and Friends,

As the year comes to a close, we’ve been reflecting on the many people who have helped shape Urban Media Arts over the years—and you’re very much part of that story. Even if it’s been a while since you’ve been connected, your past membership or financial contribution helped build the creative, welcoming space UMA is today. 

This year, our studios were alive with collaboration and community. Youth media makers created films together in our workshops. Young women in the YWCA produced powerful podcasts and roundtable conversations on issues affecting their generation. Middle school students from Housing Families learned leadership and teamwork by creating their own shows. Local creatives launched projects like Couch Quest, a community-driven gaming show, while poets filled Studio A twice a month through the Contro-Verse open mic—creating a performance space that hadn’t existed in Malden before. New partners like Malden River Works began using media to document environmental advocacy and community visioning. 

These moments are why UMA exists—and why members matter so much. 

Like many community organizations, UMA continues to navigate changes in funding and the rising costs of maintaining an accessible, up-to-date facility. Rejoining as a member is one of the most meaningful ways to support this work. Membership provides steady, reliable support that helps us plan, expand youth programs, maintain equipment, and keep our doors open to creators of all ages and backgrounds. 

If UMA has ever inspired you, supported your work, or felt like a place you belonged, we invite you to rejoin us today. Your renewed membership—at any level—helps ensure that Malden continues to have a home for creative expression, civic storytelling, and community connection. 

Thank you for being part of UMA’s journey. We would love to welcome you back in the new year.  If you would like to celebrate our 38th year in operations with a one time gift you can contribute here.

Warmly, 

Felicia Ryan 

P.S. Rejoining before December 31 helps strengthen UMA going into the new year. We hope to see you back at UMA soon 💛