ACHD: A Year in ReviewÂ
As we close out 2024, we reflect with pride on how ACHD has lived out its mission and vision, empowering the African Diaspora community in the Greater Seattle Area through health and housing stability, economic development, cultural celebration, and so much more.Â
This year, we made significant strides toward creating a unified and vibrant community, fostering generational prosperity, and strengthening the bonds that connect us all.
TRIUMPH IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Looking back at 2024, the Small Business Department (SBD) is proud to share some of the biggest highlights that made a significant impact on the communities we serve:
Small Business Technical Support: The SBD provided hands-on support to 137 businesses, helping them navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
Capacity Building Grant: Thanks to continued efforts, the dept. successfully facilitated a $435,000 grant to support and strengthen small businesses across the region.
Conferences and Collaboration: This year, we held two impactful community cafes, three successful L&I workshops, and the influential Generational Wealth Small Business Conference, bringing together experts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to share knowledge and foster collaboration.
Diverse Industry Reach: We proudly worked with 11 different industries within the small business sector, ensuring that each group received tailored resources and support.
Bookkeeping Support: We helped 21 businesses improve their financial systems, ensuring that they’re set up for long-term success.
Entrepreneurial Assistance: We assisted 11 entrepreneurs in securing their business licenses, helping them take that crucial first step toward turning their dreams into reality.
New Team Member: We are thrilled to welcome Joanna, our new Small Business Coordinator, who will continue driving our mission forward with her expertise and passion.
These milestones are a testament to the incredible work being done to support and empower small businesses. We look forward to building on these successes as we head into 2025!
ACHD MARKS RECORD-BREAKING SUCCESS AT DELRIDGE FARMER'S MARKET
Seattle, WA – African Community Housing and Development (ACHD) is thrilled to announce that the Delridge Winter Farmers Market, held on December 14th at the Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, achieved a remarkable milestone, with total vendor sales surpassing $20,000 for the first time in its history.
The event reached an astounding $23,412.74 in total sales, more than doubling the previous record set for both the Delridge and SeaTac Farmers Markets in a single day.
The bustling market featured a variety of activities and resources for attendees to enjoy. Visitors had access to free produce and basic needs distributions, acupuncture and massage services, youth art activities, free haircuts, and more. Guests were also treated to cooking demonstrations from Gold Coast Ghal Kitchen and The Pickled Chef NW, where they learned how to prepare delicious West African dishes and lemongrass daikon pickles.
Over 40 unique vendors, representing diverse cultural backgrounds, showcased and sold handmade goods, artisanal products, and traditional foods. The hallways were lined with their vibrant booths, and long lines formed at the hot food stalls as attendees indulged in local flavors.
This market truly exemplifies the success of our community. It’s inspiring to witness how our community consistently unites to support local businesses while celebrating culture, identity, and connection. Each market we host reflects the strength of collective effort, and we’re proud to have been a part of organizing such an impactful event.
Notably, the Delridge Farmers Market made a total of $191,842.80 in sales and brought in 13,945 customers during 2024. Similarly, the SeaTac Market made $35,774.50 with around 2,154 customers, marking another successful of Farmers Market fun.
CREATING UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES FOR OUR COMMUNITY'S YOUTH
This year, the Education Department gave us a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and learning outside the classroom. One of the biggest highlights was our camping trip to Lake Easton, where we took a group fishing—many for the first time.
Among the group were two unlikely friends: an elementary-aged child and a high schooler. The two spent the day side by side on the dock, fishing and chatting. The younger boy successfully caught his very first fish, which also became the first fish ever caught at an ACHD event! The high schooler was incredibly proud of his new friend, creating a beautiful moment of mentorship and connection.
This experience was not just about fishing; it was about fostering new friendships, stepping outside of our comfort zones, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The day was a perfect blend of community spirit, outdoor exploration, and learning something new.
We’re excited to continue offering unique and enriching experiences that bring people together in ways that truly make a difference.
On a separate but important note, the Positive Families Connection Program (PFC) and our Community Cafe have been pivotal in supporting families and their children’s academic success. Created in response to the need for greater focus on education, PFC was shaped by the voices of families attending Community Cafes, where their concerns were heard and addressed. A key outcome was the creation of an after-school program to support academic achievement. These programs continue to empower families and create lasting connections.
SUPPORTING SENIORS AND HOUSING: A YEAR OF GROWTH AND ENGAGEMENT
This year, our program saw significant expansion, particularly in offering more opportunities for physical activity. We introduced an exercise room, giving seniors the freedom to work out whenever they choose, which has led to increased participation and enthusiasm. In addition to fitness, we organized several well-loved field trips to the zoo and the aquarium, providing seniors with enriching experiences outside the home. We also partnered with a senior mobile van service to offer free wellness checks, further supporting the health and well-being of our community. These milestones have made 2024 a successful year and set the stage for even more exciting developments in 2025!
SUPPORING HOUSING STABILITY FOR THOSE AT RISK
The Phoenix Program continues to play a crucial role in supporting individuals marginalized by the legal system, helping them overcome legal barriers, rebuild their lives, and achieve stability. A key highlight of this year has been our success in assisting numerous families and individuals in securing stable housing. One of the most impactful aspects of the program has been the hosting of several community cafés, where guest speakers provided valuable guidance on expunging criminal records. These events empowered attendees, offering them the tools and knowledge needed to move forward and make a fresh start. The Phoenix Program remains committed to supporting individuals on their journey to secure housing and rebuild their futures.
OUR REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT LOOKS TOWARD THE FUTURE
Breaking Ground: 2025-2026
Black Home Ownership – In collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Seattle-
King & Kittitas Counties, we are excited to announce the development of 65 new, permanently affordable homes across three sites on Martin Luther King Way S. in Seattle's Rainier Valley. This project marks the first in our groundbreaking partnership with Habitat SKKC, aimed at advancing Black homeownership and prosperity through multiple initiatives across Seattle and South King County. We look forward to breaking ground in 2025 and making a lasting impact on the community.
Cultural Anchor Village -- The Cultural Anchor Village will serve as a beacon for
the future of the African Diaspora immigrant and refugee community in King County and beyond. Designed by and for the community, this project is a direct response to the ongoing displacement and historical underinvestment faced by the African Diaspora community. We are proud to break ground in 2026 and create a space that fosters cultural preservation, connection, and empowerment.
Seattle international Public Market -- Building on the success of the Delridge
Farmers Market, we are excited to announce the creation of a permanent public market dedicated to entrepreneurs and small business owners from the immigrant and refugee community. This new market will provide a path to long-term prosperity, complemented by ACHD’s existing low-cost workspaces, one-on-one mentorship, technical assistance, culturally specific support services, and advocacy to ensure the success of business owners. We look forward to breaking ground in 2026 and supporting the growth of diverse, local businesses.
ACHD COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO SUPPORT ASYLUM-SEEKERS IN TUKWILA
On December 24, members of ACHD reported to the Riverton Park United Methodist Church in Tukwila to distribute basic needs to over 150 asylum-seekers, most of whom were African immigrants. The small church space was abuzz with activity as volunteers prepared tables filled with winter essentials, hygiene products, baby care items, and toys for the children. Despite the joyful chatter and teamwork, the underlying truth was sobering: many of these families had endured unimaginable hardships, and their presence today reminded us of the immense needs in our community.
One mother, holding an infant wrapped in a thin blanket, shared how these supplies would carry her family through the next week. Her exhaustion was palpable, but so was her appreciation.
For the children, the day brought rare moments of joy. When toys were handed out, their smiles and laughter lit up the room, a stark contrast to the struggles their families face. Small hands clutched new treasures, and the simple act of receiving a toy became a reminder of their resilience and ability to find joy, even in hardship.
The gathering also offered a warm meal to all in attendance. Families and friends huddled together in small groups, sharing food and moments of connection. For a few hours, the warmth of community and compassion provided a reprieve from the difficulties of daily life.
This was more than just a day of service—it was a day of reflection and collective action during one of the most highly anticipated holidays of the year. The event highlighted the immense challenges faced by asylum-seekers while showcasing the power of community to come together and meet those challenges.
Behind every sleeping bag, bar of soap, and meal served was a story of survival and resilience. Organizers left with a renewed commitment to honor these stories with action, knowing that even small gestures can have a profound impact.
As the day ended, the warmth of compassion lingered, reminding everyone present that together, they could continue to build a future where no one is left behind.
One Final Note
As the new Communications Manager, I am thrilled to have joined ACHD at such an exciting moment in its history. My goal is to amplify the incredible work of each department and showcase the stories and accomplishments of ACHD through a dedicated newsroom. Together, we will continue to uplift the voices of the communities we serve and highlight the impact we’re making across the Seattle area.
Congratulations to everyone for finishing the year strong! Let’s carry this momentum into 2025 as we build an even brighter future together. The best is yet to come!
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