Byrd Barr Place

Who We Are

Byrd Barr Place, rooted deeply in Seattle's history, stands as a beacon of progress and empowerment. Originally founded in 1964 as the Central Area Motivation Program (CAMP), our journey began with the U.S. Economic Opportunity Act, propelling us to the forefront of community service and civil rights advocacy. For nearly six decades, we've been a trusted resource for Seattle's Central District and beyond, evolving to meet the changing needs of our community while staying true to our founding principles.

Renamed to honor the legendary civil rights leader Roberta Byrd Barr, we've evolved while maintaining our core mission: to fight poverty and build a more equitable future for all. Our name change in 2018 from Centerstone to Byrd Barr Place wasn't just a nod to our past—it was a recommitment to our community, especially the Black community in Seattle's Central District. Roberta Byrd Barr, a symbol of courage and leadership who dedicated her life to civil rights and social justice, guides our efforts in advocating for justice and equality.

What We Do

At Byrd Barr Place, we are committed to helping individuals and families escape the cycle of poverty through comprehensive, dignified support services. Our approach addresses both immediate needs and long-term systemic barriers to economic stability.

Direct Services

Our services span from providing immediate financial relief, housing and energy assistance, to ensuring access to food through our food bank, "The Market." We understand that poverty is multifaceted, which is why our programs are designed to provide holistic support—from emergency assistance to help families through crisis moments, to ongoing resources that build pathways to economic stability.

Community Impact

We tackle the root causes of economic disparities with a sharp focus on supporting the African American community and all those living at or below the poverty line in Seattle. Our work is grounded in racial equity, recognizing the disproportionate impact of systemic barriers on communities of color.

Advocacy and Systemic Change

Our efforts extend beyond immediate aid; we strive for systemic change. By conducting citywide assessments, engaging in advocacy, and working within the Washington State Community Action Partnership, we aim to address the most pressing needs of our community and advocate for policies that promote equity and justice. We believe that true change comes from both serving individuals and transforming the systems that perpetuate inequality.

Working at Byrd Barr Place

Joining Byrd Barr Place means being part of a dedicated team that values justice, equity, and community service. Our staff is a diverse group committed to empowering individuals and advocating for systemic change. We're driven by the legacy of our namesake, Roberta Byrd Barr, and the profound impact we can make in the lives of those we serve.

As a small but mighty organization of 13 dedicated professionals, every team member plays a vital role in our mission. You'll have the opportunity to work closely with community members, collaborate across departments, and see the direct impact of your work. Our size allows for meaningful relationships, both with colleagues and with the community members we serve.

Team Benefits

Our team enjoys a supportive and engaging work environment that fosters growth and community impact. We recognize that our staff's wellbeing is essential to serving our community effectively. Here's a glimpse of what we offer:

Work-Life Balance

• A commitment to work-life balance and professional development
• Flexible work arrangements that honor the whole person
• A 4-day work week structure that allows for rest and renewal

Professional Growth

• Opportunities for advocacy and community engagement
• Professional development support and learning opportunities
• Meaningful work with tangible community impact

Workplace Culture

• A workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Collaborative, mission-driven team environment
• Leadership that centers racial equity and social justice

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds, especially those from historically marginalized communities, to join us in our mission. We believe that lived experience strengthens our work and that our team should reflect the community we serve.