Seattle Department of Neighborhoods Newsletter

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A body of water at sunset with the shore silhouetted and an orange logo that reads "Stories in Place"

Stories in Place: Union Bay Natural Area

Our city is full of unique places that play a significant role in shaping our communities and our individual and collective identities. The lived experiences in these places are fundamental to the larger story of our city. They are more than the settings of our stories, they are characters within them, and they shape our past, present, and future. As Seattle continues to grow and change, we asked the community to share some of the local places that hold compelling stories for them.

Read more in the Front Porch Blog

Other City News

Applications Open for Food Equity Fund: Community-based organizations working to address food education, access, and security in Seattle are encouraged to apply. Learn more about the Food Equity Fund and apply by March 17. 

Get Funding for Your Community Project through the Neighborhood Matching Fund: Applications are open for the Community Partnership Fund and Small Sparks, both of which support grassroots projects that build stronger communities. Read more about the Neighborhood Matching Fund and apply by March 10.

Make a Difference in Your Community. Sign Up to Volunteer at the Seattle/King County Clinic: Thousands of people in your community don’t have access to or can’t afford the healthcare they need. You can help by volunteering at the region's largest volunteer-driven free health clinic this April 24-27, 2025, at Seattle Center. Clinical and non-clinical roles available. Learn more and register to volunteer today!

Have an Idea for a Community Activity? Bring it to Life with Funding from Seattle Parks and Recreation: The Get Moving Fund and Recreation for All Fund can help you secure up to $15,000 in funding to develop fun and engaging recreation activities. Check out detailed guidelines and upcoming information sessions for these grants.

Tips for Renters to Save Money and Reduce Energy Use: Seattle City Lights provides simple steps anyone can take to lower your utility bills and make your home more energy efficient. Check out these great tips on energy efficiency.

Metro Fare Inspection to Resume in March: King County Metro is planning a phased approach to returning to fare inspection beginning on March 31. See dates and steps for the return of fare inspection.

Environmental Justice Fund Awards Record $1.2 Million to Community Organizations: The Office of Sustainability and Environment has awarded grants to 26 community projects focused on advancing climate justice. See list of projects funded by the Environmental Justice Fund.

In The Community

Headshot of a Black woman, smiling, wearing glasses and a headwrap

Black-Led Doula Center Helps Tackle Disparities In Maternal Health

BLKBRY is a Black-owned and operated free-standing doula center in Seattle dedicated to serving Black families with holistic wellness and healing programs. Founded in 2019 by Jazmin Williams, the organization centers Blackness in its mission, addressing systemic disparities in maternal healthcare while advocating for better birth outcomes. Williams was inspired from her own birthing experiences, which led her to create a space where Black mothers could receive the support they need while birthing, especially after experience traumatic berthing experience.

Read more in the Seattle Medium


Two people cutting a red ribbon with a black and white portrait hanging in a frame behind it

Washington State Black Legacy Institute Celebrates Grand Opening

The Washington State Black Legacy Institute (WSBLI) celebrated its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the community. The event, held on February 1, also recognized as Washington State Black Legacy Institute Day, drew a crowd of supporters, partners, and community members in an atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation for the Institute’s future.

Read more in Westside Seattle

Share Your Feedback

Help shape the future design for the next phase of renovations at Be’er Sheva Park: Community is invited to share their thoughts on the proposed design options for renovations to the Be'er Sheva Park play area and gathering space. Take a quick survey to review designs and provide input.

Community Input Needed for Judkins Park Renovations: Seattle Parks and Recreation invites the community to help shape the future of Judkins Park at two upcoming events in February. Learn more about this project and get event information.

Share Your Feedback on New Off-Leash Areas: Community members are invited to participate in the development of two new off-leash areas at West Seattle Stadium and Othello Playground. Two engagement events will be held to ask questions and review concept design options. Learn more about and get event information.