Introducing the New Director of Advancement!
Byrd Barr Place is excited to introduce you to our new Director of Advancement, Wendy Armour. I had the privilege of sitting down with Wendy, and after our conversation, I was not only impressed but also felt an immediate sense of sisterhood. Wendy is a Washington State native who moved to Seattle in her teenage years. She was once a recipient of the support Byrd Barr Place (formerly known as CAMP) provided, and it was that experience that sparked her passion for joining our team.
Can you tell me more about yourself?
I was born in Richland, Washington, and moved to Seattle with my mother and two sisters, where our church became our foundation. I attended the wonderful Franklin High School and then went on to college in Louisiana at Grambling State University, where I majored in Business Management and minored in Marketing. After graduation, I moved to Atlanta, Georgia, and lived there for two and a half years before returning to Seattle, where my immediate family resides. About 10 years later, I reconnected with my college sweetheart, the amazing Shawn Armour, and we got married. We have one awesome son, Deschman, and two incredible bonus adult children, Asia & Shawn Michael.
I’ve been in the workforce for over 35 years, with a diverse background. I spent nearly 8 years in pharmaceutical sales and over 20 years working in the nonprofit sector, including roles as an Executive Director where I cultivated long-lasting funding relationships. In addition to my nonprofit work, I also volunteer with the Children’s Institute for Learning Differences (VP of the Board of Trustees), National Black MBA Association (VP of Operations), and have volunteered with numerous youth and women’s organizations for over 25 years.
What made you want to join the team at Byrd Barr Place?
In my teenage and young adult years, Byrd Barr Place (then CAMP) was a place that created fond memories for me. It was seen as a vital resource for the Black community. Whether you needed a meeting space or a safe venue for an event, CAMP was there to support you. I can’t count how many times, when we didn’t have the funds to rent a meeting space, CAMP opened its doors to us. This place truly feels like home, even as the community around it has changed.
I’ve also heard a lot about the incredible leadership of Dr. Angela Griffin, our CEO. I’ve admired her from afar, hearing nothing but great things about her work ethic and leadership. After attending the 60th Diamond Gala last year, I was energized and excited to bring my years of fundraising experience to the team. Authenticity is important to me, and Byrd Barr Place is an organization that aligns with my values. I call this “feel-good work,” because it allows me to live out my beliefs without compromise. I’m passionate about helping Byrd Barr Place diversify its funding to continue supporting the vital work this organization does for the community.
As the Director of Advancement, what are you excited to bring to the organization, besides money, of course?
In my years of community-centered work, I’ve seen how our communities, particularly Black communities, have been left behind in many ways. That’s why I’m thrilled to introduce an inaugural Health Fair at Byrd Barr Place! I’ve helped organize health fairs in the past, and they’ve grown each year. Bringing this event to a For and By Black organization is truly monumental. We know that knowledge is power—and there’s also power in being healthy. The health fair will offer many services, such as screenings, vaccines, exercise demos, music, and hopefully, some healthy food trucks!
In addition to the health fair, I’m excited to introduce Health Talks—monthly virtual or in-person sessions with healthcare professionals on various topics like managing blood pressure, healthy recipes, at-home exercises, and more. These sessions will evolve based on community feedback and needs.
Are there any sayings or songs that keep you motivated?
I was raised in the church, and my spiritual walk with the Most High God has always been central to my life. I hold onto the scripture Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This scripture gives me hope and keeps me optimistic, especially during challenging times. I also live by the saying, “Work hard, play hard.” I plan to work hard to bring in the funds we need, so we can continue to enjoy the great times that Byrd Barr Place is known for!
