The history of Byrd Barr Place lives in the stories of our community. Founded as the Central Area Motivation Program (CAMP) in 1964, Byrd Barr Place was born out of a community’s desire to help one another. For 60 years, people have given their time, talents and treasures in pursuit of an equitable future for all.
Elma Horton is one such person. Active on the CAMP board for over 20 years, Ms. Horton has devoted her life to giving back to her community and represents the true essence of what Byrd Barr Place stands for.
By community, for community
As Ms. Horton recalls,“CAMP was developed from the desire in the community to offer support. It was a time of community involvement, where there was deep care and concern about working together to make life better.”
“It was such a great space for the Central Area. It was a place where you could go for help or advice on whatever was concerning you at that time, whether it was housing or the food bank, it was just a wonderful resource.”
A trip down memory lane
One of the many CAMP traditions that Ms. Horton remembers fondly are the yearly holiday parties. “Each year we would gather and throw a Christmas party where we would give toys and gifts to the children. It was so rewarding to see everyone so happy and how the community really looked forward to it every year.”
CAMP served as a central meeting place for community action and learning. Famed civil rights attorney Johnnie Cochran once spoke at CAMP, an event Ms. Horton remembers with pride. “He was this high-powered attorney from Louisiana who hardly lost any cases. It was very exciting to have him in town and be able to meet him, speak with him and even take some pictures.”
Looking forward to the next 60 years
As Byrd Barr Place looks forward to another 60 years, Ms. Horton stresses the importance of staying true to the roots that make this such a special place. “The community has changed, but my vision is that Byrd Barr Place will continue to reach out and help people with an attitude of service. This has always been a welcoming place, and my hope is that it continues to be so for a very long time.”
