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UPDATE: VERT & the Pepsi Refresh Project

The Pepsi Refresh Project has officially come to an end for Youth Movement Records (YMR) and Hood Games’ idea, VERT. Unfortunately, after 2 rounds of participation, we were not able to make it to the Top 10 of our category to win the $25,000 grant from Pepsi for our idea. We’d like to thank all those that supported us during the contest by voting or allowing us to vote on your behalf. It was your support and dedication that kept us in the running. But just because it didn't work out this time around, doesn’t mean VERT still won’t happen! It just means that we’ll have to find another way to raise the money to make it happen.

What is VERT?
VERT is a multimedia event series and space for the youth of Oakland. Young people are creative and want to be engaged in constructive and transformative activities. YMR and K-Dub's Hood Games events have successfully operated with this philosophy for over 5 years, growing our base of invested young people, eager to lead their own movements. Each event in the future VERT series will be microcosmic of the permanent space, complete with themed motifs. For example, “Oakland in Green”: A solar-powered concert with youth and industry level performances will include organic food, and a skate-able, plant-able sod set design resembling the Oakland hillsides. Each participant will wear a hand designed “green” t-shirt, created during a workshop. Audience members will also have the option to donate to a partnering environmental organization or business.

We believe in our vision for Bay Area youth, so be sure not to count us out just yet! Be on the lookout for another VERT campaign for the Pepsi Refresh Project. We may need your help yet again as we re-enter the contest in the $50,000 category.

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