News

Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker was honored at the 51st Black Achievers Awards on September 30, 2023. In a special black-tie ceremony, Parker received this recognition joined by members of her family and several members of the Open Buffalo team. 

Nominated by Channel 7 WKBW in Buffalo, Parker and her team at Open Buffalo have been highlighted in several pieces and stories by the network. Whether helping citizens of Jefferson Avenue and the Cold Springs Neighborhood following the massacre of May 14, 2023, expanding minds as a climate justice and anti-racism trainer, or for her tireless work leading a team dedicated to advancing racial, economic, and ecological justice, Parker is known in the East Side community and the wider Western New York region for her impactful political and organizing skills.  

Herb Bellamy Jr., CEO of Black Achievers Inc., proclaimed that the honorees “needed to know that they were special individuals within their community worthy of public recognition.” As members of her Open Buffalo team can attest, we are proud of her accolade and encouraged to continue to strive for the goal of all communities in Western New York to be thriving free from discrimination and poverty. 

Congratulations, Franchelle!