MakerDate 2023

Assemble is excited to announce its upcoming event, MakerDate, with the theme “Future” for 2024. The event will be held on September 7, 2024, from 6-9pm, with a VIP opening reception from 4:30-5:30 pm, at the Maverick Hotel (120 S Whitfield Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206). MakerDate is Assemble’s largest fundraising event of the year, providing an opportunity to make a significant impact on the community by fostering creativity and collaboration. The Presenting Sponsor of MakerDate 2024 is Duolingo. 

MakerDate offers attendees the unique chance to bid on “dates” (learning experiences) with artists, makers, technologists, innovators, and creatives. These experiences present a fun and engaging way to learn new skills and connect with creative minds. Examples of Makers to participate in MakerDate 2024 include: Leo Tsu, Executive Director of Silver Eye Photography, whose date will be focused on photography, Sharon Massey and Sean Derry from Local X, who will teach their date to make a light using CAD software and laser cutters, Benjamin Bishop, renowned pastry chef, who will provide a private pastry class for up to 4 people to make classic French crepes and dessert flambe, and Zena Ruiz, who will work with up to 8 people to make and decorate sugar skulls.

MakerDate will have both a live and silent auction, with a total of 20+ Makers. Additionally, there will be food from Sprezzatura, drinks by M Bar, music from Kha’DJ, and an array of raffle prizes and hands-on activities. Guests are strongly encouraged to come in a future-themed attire!

Event tickets include complimentary drinks and delicious hors d’oeuvres. MakerDate is a 21+ event. If you’re passionate about accessible STEAM education for all, help Assemble raise funds at MakerDate on September 7. To learn more or book your tickets, visit assemblepgh.org/makerdate-2024/.

Fundraising and Impact: The funds raised from MakerDate will directly support Assemble’s free STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) educational programs, such as Summer Camps and Afterschool Programs, as well as other initiatives aimed at creating a better future. The goal for this event is to raise $60,000, with $22,250 already secured through the generous support of sponsors, including Duolingo (Presenting Sponsor), Trellis Legal, Deeplocal, Burns White, Pittsburgh Regional Transit, Duquesne Light Company, Tristate Bank, Fivestar, Bally Design, Trulieve, the James & Stephanie Dewar Charitable Fund, and the UPMC Center for Engagement and Inclusion. Assemble is still seeking additional sponsors to join this cause and expand its network with the expected 175+ event attendees. To sponsor the event, please reach out to Dale Gaddes at dale@assemblepgh.org.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a transformative evening of creativity and learning. You can make a difference with us as we bring together artists, technologists & creatives from the region for one night of creativity, change-making, and fun. 

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About Assemble

Located at 4824 Penn Avenue in the Garfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh’s east end, Assemble is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization with the mission to unite artists, technologists, and makers with our neighbors of all demographics and provide a platform for experiential learning, opening creative processes, and building confidence through making. 

Founded in 2011, Assemble envisions a diverse community that creates, connects, and learns through the experience of art and technology. Learn more about Assemble at assemblepgh.org.

In 2023, Assemble had a significant impact by reaching a total of 1,800 youth and 3,697 individuals overall through 11 diverse programs. These efforts have continued to promote creativity, learning, and community engagement in the Pittsburgh region.