In 1965, the Central Area Motivation Program (CAMP) opened its doors. In 2012, CAMP became Centerstone of Seattle. In 2018, Centerstone is becoming Byrd Barr Place.
Our new name honors Roberta Byrd Barr, a community leader, educator and journalist, who once served as editor of the Trumpet, CAMP’s newspaper. Our new name is an opportunity for us to re-root ourselves and deepen our commitment to the values that defined CAMP, Centerstone, and now, Byrd Barr Place. Roberta was a passionate, fearless advocate, leading marches to demand de-segregation in schools. As a teacher and school administrator, she fought to provide the next generation a better, more equitable future. As a journalist, she woke up Seattle to civil rights issues, elevating the voices of the Black community, the poor and others.
Roberta embodied the values that are the foundation of this organization. We are humbled by her legacy and honored to carry her name forward. While our name may be different, we remain committed to helping people help themselves. We will continue to nurture a more equitable Seattle by providing programs and advocacy that enable people to live healthier, prosperous lives. Together, we will build a stronger, more vibrant city, where all people have access to basic human needs.
