Byrd Barr Place Connects Hundreds of Seattle Residents
Free July 11 community celebration brought together families, neighbors, local vendors, and community partners for live music and connection in Seattle’s historic Central District.
SEATTLE, WA {July 15th, 2026)— Byrd Barr Place welcomed approximately 500 to 600 community members to its 3rd Annual Block Party on Saturday, July 11, in Seattle’s historic Central District, connecting families with free food, school supplies, financial education, fresh produce, energy-conservation information, and other community support.
Held at 18th Avenue and East Cherry Street, the free event generated 256 advance RSVPs and brought together families, neighbors, former and current Central District residents, local businesses, community organizations, members of the Divine Nine, and visitors from across the region for an afternoon centered on Black culture, community care, and connection.
Byrd Barr Place invested approximately $7,000 in complimentary food and beverages and an additional $5,000 in backpacks and school supplies. By the end of the event, every backpack and school supply had been distributed to families preparing for the upcoming school year.
The Block Party also generated immediate interest in Byrd Barr Place’s financial empowerment programming. Its Financial Literacy 101 course reached capacity with 74 registrations, while enrollment in the organization’s investment course increased from three participants before the event to 35 afterward.
Attendees also received 120 potted plants from Black-owned nursery Black Origin Plants, along with fresh vegetables through the farmers market. One participating energy conservation organization connected with approximately 80 to 90 residents and described the Block Party as one of the most engaging outreach events it had attended. Final voter registration totals are still being compiled.
“Our Block Party is about honoring the Central District’s history while ensuring families leave with resources, information, and opportunities that can continue to support them long after the event ends,” said Dr. Angela Griffin, Chief Executive Officer of Byrd Barr Place. “It reflects the strength, joy, and community care that have always defined this neighborhood.”
Hosted by Deaunte Damper, this year’s celebration featured live music from Zach Bruce and Friends, karaoke led by Your Favorite Karaoke Duo, entertainment from The Double Dutch Divas, spoken-word artist Dada Bass, family activities, local vendors, and opportunities to support small businesses and organizations serving Washington families.
Event Impact:
Approximately 500–600 attendees
256 advance RSVPs
Approximately $7,000 in complimentary food and beverages
Approximately $5,000 in backpacks and school supplies
All backpacks and school supplies distributed
74 registrations for Financial Literacy 101
Investment course enrollment increased from 3 to 35 participants
120 potted plants distributed
Approximately 80–90 residents engaged through energy conservation education
Fresh vegetables distributed through the farmers market
About Byrd Barr Place
Byrd Barr Place has served the Seattle community for decades, providing essential services including energy assistance, food access, advocacy, and community-centered programming. Rooted in a legacy of civil rights leadership, Byrd Barr Place continues to champion equity and opportunity for all Washingtonians.
SEATTLE, WA {July 15th, 2026)— Byrd Barr Place welcomed approximately 500 to 600 community members to its 3rd Annual Block Party on Saturday, July 11, in Seattle’s historic Central District, connecting families with free food, school supplies, financial education, fresh produce, energy-conservation information, and other community support.
Held at 18th Avenue and East Cherry Street, the free event generated 256 advance RSVPs and brought together families, neighbors, former and current Central District residents, local businesses, community organizations, members of the Divine Nine, and visitors from across the region for an afternoon centered on Black culture, community care, and connection.
Byrd Barr Place invested approximately $7,000 in complimentary food and beverages and an additional $5,000 in backpacks and school supplies. By the end of the event, every backpack and school supply had been distributed to families preparing for the upcoming school year.
The Block Party also generated immediate interest in Byrd Barr Place’s financial empowerment programming. Its Financial Literacy 101 course reached capacity with 74 registrations, while enrollment in the organization’s investment course increased from three participants before the event to 35 afterward.
Attendees also received 120 potted plants from Black-owned nursery Black Origin Plants, along with fresh vegetables through the farmers market. One participating energy conservation organization connected with approximately 80 to 90 residents and described the Block Party as one of the most engaging outreach events it had attended. Final voter registration totals are still being compiled.
“Our Block Party is about honoring the Central District’s history while ensuring families leave with resources, information, and opportunities that can continue to support them long after the event ends,” said Dr. Angela Griffin, Chief Executive Officer of Byrd Barr Place. “It reflects the strength, joy, and community care that have always defined this neighborhood.”
Hosted by Deaunte Damper, this year’s celebration featured live music from Zach Bruce and Friends, karaoke led by Your Favorite Karaoke Duo, entertainment from The Double Dutch Divas, spoken-word artist Dada Bass, family activities, local vendors, and opportunities to support small businesses and organizations serving Washington families.
Event Impact:
Approximately 500–600 attendees
256 advance RSVPs
Approximately $7,000 in complimentary food and beverages
Approximately $5,000 in backpacks and school supplies
All backpacks and school supplies distributed
74 registrations for Financial Literacy 101
Investment course enrollment increased from 3 to 35 participants
120 potted plants distributed
Approximately 80–90 residents engaged through energy conservation education
Fresh vegetables distributed through the farmers market
About Byrd Barr Place
Byrd Barr Place has served the Seattle community for decades, providing essential services including energy assistance, food access, advocacy, and community-centered programming. Rooted in a legacy of civil rights leadership, Byrd Barr Place continues to champion equity and opportunity for all Washingtonians.