We are seeking creative and dynamic proposals to help support Open Buffalo’s unique funding challenges and opportunities.
In the span of four short days last week, The Race Power and Privilege (RPP) Program completed an outstanding week of five distinct trainings and community engagements throughout Buffalo.
The Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders Program is again recruiting up-and-coming change agents.
Environmental Site Assessment Will Support Development of the Open Buffalo Urban Ecology Center
The panel discussed how the underfunding of Medicaid contributes to poor health outcomes largely in the Black and Latino communities, particularly affecting low-income seniors, expectant mothers, young children from low-income families, and people with disabilities.
For our 2024 MLK Day of Service, Open Buffalo was accompanied by Nickel City Ultimate and the Buffalo Urban League Young Professionals.
In the state of New York, there is concrete evidence of the long-term psychic damage inflicted upon the Black community, including the subsequent effects on housing discrimination, biased policing, income inequality and mass incarceration of African Americans.
Open Buffalo is proud to help bring to the public a new data-mapping tool that will help our community develop a clearer picture of the problem of lead pipes delivering water to city homes.
Training sessions designed to not be a sixth day of school, but a hands-on workshop where your real-time learning can be applied as soon as you walk out the door.
This year our all-star support team for Getting out the Vote (GOTV) paved a foundation for future years!
There is no other better example of building together and creating community than a passionate community-focused, service training.
The Open Buffalo Ecology Center is a 10-acre urban refuge that will be housed on Buffalo’s East Side. It will offer the ample green space, outdoor recreation, educational opportunities, and community-building spaces and activities intended to correct the financial and physical harms inflicted upon Black bodies amid decades of environmental racism, systematic disinvestment, and a worsening climate crisis.
Ms. Ina had a deep passion for caring for her “community babies,” being a god-mom, mentoring, and being an educational advocate, leaving an indelible mark on Buffalo Public Schools at every level.
Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker was honored at the 51st Black Achievers Awards on September 30, 2023.
Ecological Justice Coordinator Tendaji Ya'Ukuu sat down to discuss these projects and more with WBFO's "What's Next?" program.
Last Saturday, September 16, we were happy to celebrate the return of the Emerging Leaders community bus tour!
Open Buffalo engaged a riveted audience of students from The University at Buffalo Law School on September 15, 2003.
September is National Suicide Prevention and Self-Care Awareness month. National BRAVE Day is observed on the last Friday of the month too, serving as a reminder for women to seek strength in one another. Thus, we celebrate the late and great Audre Lorde, who defined intersectionality well before the term was coined.
Open Buffalo reaffirms our commitment to teaching anti-racism, love, and justice.
Bring your loved ones and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Juneteenth Parade. Enjoy colorful floats, and inspiring performances. Let's come together to make cherished memories and strengthen our unity as we celebrate this significant moment in our history!
A collective of buffalo organizations are looking to collaborate with community members to address clean mobility issues throughout the East Side of Buffalo.
Open Buffalo is collaborating with a professor and Environmental Science Ph.D. to test the soil of homes within a half-mile radius of the previous General Motors and American Axel Site; in labs at Buffalo State University.
The Emerging Leaders Program is changing the face of leadership and decision-making in our communities. It is distinguished by its unique focus on leadership for justice and social change, as well as our community of alumni and mentors.
On February 28, Open Buffalo’s Youth Action team led a civic engagement training, “Train for a Change,” for the Erie-Niagara AHEC PATCH Teen Educators.
Reflecting on the past 12 months, 2022 hardened Open Buffalo's resolve to build community resilience, increased our capacity to love, and inspired us to double down on strengthening and uplifting the individuals who suffer racial, economic, and ecological injustices everyday. Our team invites you to explore what that looked like in action last year.
Heart of The City Neighborhood Inc. (HOCN) and Open Buffalo seek a Stakeholder Liaison to assure project connection with and representation of communities of people living in Buffalo’s East Side for a green mobility initiative. Responses to this RFP must be received by 12pm, March 23, 2023.
Heart of The City Neighborhood Inc. (HOCN) and Open Buffalo seek a communications team to shape branding, public relations, and marketing for a community-based 2.5 year campaign focused on green mobility in Buffalo’s East Side.
Join Open Buffalo this June for a weeklong Community Organizing Boot Camp, in which we will train young leaders between the ages of 14-24 in a variety of Organizing skills and tactics.
Open Buffalo statement on the Colorado Springs, CO shootings
During Civic Engagement fellowship with Open Buffalo, Temara Cross actively used and reflected on tools gained from previous leadership and outreach experiences.
Byron Chavis: "Joining this fellowship was a great accomplishment for me personally, and it has been nothing but amazing."
We're back and better! Premiering TONIGHT at 5pm is the re-launch of our podcast!
Learn about the history of environmental contamination in WNY, causes of climate change, and Just Transition solutions to help save the planet.
On October 4, 2022, Hilbert College, as part of St. Francis week had Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker as their keynote speaker.
The goal of the Credible Community Mentor position is to provide support and resources for youth returning from the juvenile justice system.
Open Buffalo hosts an event for National Voter Registration Day
In collaboration with Social Change, Open Buffalo will offer hardship awards to current and former Tops Supermarket employees.
Fun was had by all at the annual event.
Anchored in love and service, the Justice40 Accelerator is a 12-month program that will provide Open Buffalo seed funding, technical assistance, training, connections, and peer support as we seek federal funding flowing from the Biden Administration’s Justice40 Initiative.
Open Buffalo was in person at Juneteenth 2022!
One month after the May 14 Tops terrorist attack, Open Buffalo provides an update on the ongoing recovery efforts and offers gratitude for widespread support.
This program aims to build relationships with local families and give away baby supplies.
Open Buffalo stands steadfast to our commitment to achieve racial equity in Buffalo.
Open Buffalo is looking for young adults to phone and text bank. Get paid $20 an hour!
At Open Buffalo's third annual Sankofa celebration, we took time to revisit our recent accomplishments and reconnect with our friends, partners, and allies.
Franchelle Parker receives the Community Service Award at Buffalo Urban League's Annual Gala
Open Buffalo discusses the events of Ukraine with filmmaker Lukia Costello
Open Buffalo celebrates our 3rd Annual Sankofa Event!
On November 20, Youth Action held a youth-led Q&A with four panelists from the community and the City of Buffalo.
OB Youth Action teams up with Project Mona’s House to address crisis of missing children in Buffalo.
Join us on Saturday, October 2 for our first annual "Freedom Summer" Leadership & Civic Engagement Symposium!
Open Buffalo seeks videography/video editing services for the creation of a short series of racial equity training videos.
Heather Kuhn, a student at UB School of Law, reflects on her recent human rights internship with Open Buffalo.
Open Buffalo has declared the Summer of 2021 a Freedom Summer! This Freedom Summer pays homage to the ancestors, organizers, freedom fighters and organizations who created the first Freedom Summer in 1964.
The Color Run, hosted by Open Buffalo’s Youth Action on Saturday, July 31, was an engaging, fun-filled event for the community.
June is the month to celebrate all the obstacles that were overcome by the LGBTQ+ community and for allies to show their support and acknowledge that our differences are what bring us closer together as people.
Let us teach the ignorant the truth and importance of this day, as we walk, shout and rejoice our Independence Day. Fist up!
Sponsoring Councilmember Ulysees O. Wingo Sr. joins Open Buffalo and other concerned community stakeholders in calling on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to bring critical voting rights legislation for a vote in the U.S. Senate.
Average citizens stopped by Jefferson and Utica to share their experiences and explain how their lives could be changed by the passage of bills like Clean Slate and the For the People Act.
The Open Buffalo Freedom Summer Fellowship is an intensive leadership development program designed to: empower residents in Western New York with knowledge of the history of the original Freedom Summer; register and engage with voters; and work on winning the For the People Act on the national level.
On Saturday, May 8, Open Buffalo’s Youth Action (YA) hosted a “Save our Children” Community Town Hall. The YA leaders wanted to raise awareness around the narrative that labels missing children of color as “runaways” and how amber alerts are racialized.
Youth leaders call on public officials and community members to do better for missing persons and their families.
On Saturday, May 1, Open Buffalo hosted a “Know Your Rights” Cookout at Martin Luther King Jr. Park for the community to celebrate the passing of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) and learn what work still needs to be done!
We are now accepting applications for the 2021 cohort of Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders.
Recently Enacted Marijuana Reforms Represent Significant Racial Equity Advancement for the People of New York State.
In the aftermath of this week's shooting rampage that took eight innocent lives in the Atlanta area -- yet another national tragedy authored by a hate-filled man with a gun -- Open Buffalo mourns and stands in solidarity with all those impacted directly or from afar.
On February 16th, 2021, Open Buffalo along with the Emerging Leaders class of 2020 launched the Community Restoration Project to push for equitable cannabis legalization, "clean slate" criminal justice legislation, and progressive tax reforms.
DEADLINE: Friday, February 5, 2021
Welcome to the application for the Open Buffalo Justice Fellowship Program.
We are delighted that you are interested in being a part of our change-maker family! The Justice Fellowship Program is an intensive leadership development program designed to empower residents in Western New York with the skills and resources required to drive organizations and institutions toward equity, inclusion, and long-term systems change.
Buffalo, NY (January 6, 2021) – With New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo having just announced a proposal that would allow recreational cannabis use throughout the state, Open Buffalo once again demands that legalization of this plant be done with racial justice and community repair in mind.
Buffalo, NY (December 12, 2020) - Open Buffalo has learned that a group of individuals is planning anti-mask and anti-closure rallies using as an event name and/or slogan the phrase “open buffalo.” The rallies are to protest New York State and Erie County’s COVID-19 guidelines and rules pertaining to citizen protections against the debilitating and deadly disease.
Though training, diligence, and teamwork, Open Buffalo youth workers engaged and empowered thousands of people this summer.
Open Buffalo proudly joins coalition to defend crucial “50-A” public records reform across NY State.
Buffalo, N.Y. (July 15, 2020) – In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and calls for racial justice throughout the country, Open Buffalo stays on course with its 2020 civic initiatives to increase voter rolls and census participation, particularly for youth and underrepresented populations.
By: Todd Geise
Juneteenth 2020 - A message from E.D. Franchelle Parker
Open Buffalo Exceeds 10,000 Reusable Masks Distributed with MLK Park Pop-Up Today.
Open Buffalo demands transparent investigation and swift police policy reforms in the wake of violent encounter captured on video.
Buffalo, N.Y. (April 30, 2020) – Open Buffalo and FB Community Land Trust have teamed up to help already struggling city neighborhoods being further impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis. Protective masks, nutritious food, and home disinfectants are among the products residents will receive.
I recently stumbled across a clip online of doctors from Cuba arriving in Italy, ground zero of the global pandemic right now, to help. I breathed a sigh of relief that help was on the way for the people of Italy and it gave me a sense of hope during these very challenging times. Humanity is stepping up in magnificent ways. Healthcare workers are teaching us all what it means to be brave — from the receptionist, to maintenance to administration.
Full participation in this year’s Census will support vital quality-of-life services for you and your neighbors.
Open Buffalo cultivates leaders to create an equitable and sustainable society where justice triumphs over exploitation.
An Emerging Leaders Alumni Spotlight with Tanvier Peart, Class of 2017
In her March 2019 message to the community, Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker challenges readers to evaluate what principles drive them to be resilient change-makers.
Have you been waiting for Open Buffalo's next Emerging Leaders program? Now is your chance.
On Thursday, January 9, members of the community joined Open Buffalo staff and board members for a Sankofa Celebration. Sankofa is a word from the Akan tribe in Ghana that refers to reflecting on the past period in order to look ahead and advance to the future.
In the last days celebrating Hanukkah, we were saddened and heartbroken to learn of yet another hate crime in our country, this time at the New York City area home of a Rabbi while celebrating the seventh night of Hanukkah with dozens of guests.
The Massachusetts Avenue Project is hiring a full-time Youth Education Director. The Director will work with a diverse population in sustainable food production and marketing. Apply by Jan.1, 2020.
There's a duality about Thanksgiving that's deeper than excess vs. hunger or being 'a part of' vs. 'apart from'. Knowing its history, should we celebrate Thanksgiving or should we commemorate it?
Do you want to help end poverty in Buffalo? Develop valuable nonprofit skills and experiences? Give back to the community? If so, consider applying for Open Buffalo's NYIC VISTA position today!
Join this expansive movement to build opportunities, break down obstacles, and create a better you!
As part of Buffalo’s renaissance the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor features a host of landmarks in local and national black history.
The FB Community Land Trust will buy five properties to transition low- and middle-income families into first-time homeowners.
We are building a movement of young people ready to lead our region in a direction that creates social, economic and ecological equity for all.
Open Buffalo's Eric Walker returns from the ACENY conference to report progress toward realizing New York's clean, sustainable energy future.
This year marks the beginning of early voting for New Yorkers. OB staff and volunteers have launched an initiative to educate voters about important changes to voting rights and access to the polls.
Eric Walker, OB Climate Strategist, shared his perspective on New York's energy future at the ACENY fall conference.
In early September, 100 individuals came together for Open Buffalo’s Justice Leadership Institute (JLI), the organization’s largest ever training event.
The 2019 Open Buffalo Training Team is ready to facilitate a powerful community workshop for 100 community members at the first Justice Leadership Institute!
Young Audiences of WNY seeks applicants for Master Teaching Artisits in their Fall and Spring ArtWorks program.
Open Buffalo's Justice Leadership Institute launches the first weekend of September! Join us and you can find power in your personal story, make change in your community, and gain organizing skills.
Check out the video recap of our 2019 'Restoration & Reclamation' event in April.
Key elements of Open Buffalo's 2019 state legislative agenda succeed – community power in action
2018 Democracy Fellow Michelle Jones continues to share her fellowship multimedia project on domestic violence with the Buffalo community, spreading a message of hope through Public Art!
Open Buffalo's second annual Movement Morning was an occasion to celebrate the transformative impact of the organization’s last five years, and to look with anticipation to our course forward.
Mentoring is a special partnership between two people based on commitment to the mentoring process, common goals/expectations of the partnership and mutual trust and respect.
On April 20, 2019, Buffalo residents came together in MLK Park to commemorate 420 Community Day in a new tradition of service and celebration.
Support Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders, Community Empowerment, and a better Buffalo! Enjoy a hot breakfast, an inspiring update on Open Buffalo's community impact -all this in an hour's time!
For the first time, alums from all Emerging Leaders' classes (2015 - 2018) gathered to connect with new folks and celebrate how the program continues to transform Buffalo's leadership.
Spread economic opportunity & justice in Buffalo! Build community power & resilience! Help end cannabis prohibition!
Open Buffalo calls on state lawmakers to prioritize vulnerable communities, featured as presenters at the Caucus Weekend of the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators.
Organization continues to push for statewide marijuana policy to repair and invest in communities on the frontline of the war on drugs
On Monday, January 7, Open Buffalo stood on the steps of Buffalo City Hall with local allies speaking in support of the Fair Elections for New York campaign.
Open Buffalo honored 35 outstanding individuals and marked two milestones for the Leadership Development division as a whole: graduating our 100th Emerging Leader and 1st class of Democracy Fellows.
Open Buffalo firmly opposes the Trump Administration's latest anti-immigrant policy proposal for "Public Charge" Rule as an explicit attack on low-income immigrant families and communities of color.
Emerging Leader Kenyana David on The Public Good to discuss entrepreneurship and her consultancy for women-owned firms, 81 Eighteen.
Over 100 residents from the city of Buffalo attended the Second Annual Anti-Gentrification Summit to begin conversations on creative resistance, community-driven development, & solutions-based policy.
F.B. Community Land Trust talks on The Public Good about the growth of community-controlled economy and innovative policy solutions for affordable housing in the Fruit Belt neighborhood.
What if we all gave on one day? We can! On November 27, 2018, our community will come together for #GivingTuesday to sustain Open Buffalo's work of education and empowerment.
Meghan Maloney de Zaldivar of the OUR CITY Coalition is invited on The Public Good to discuss the coalition's mission, policy platform, and the upcoming Anti-Gentrification Summit.
The Our CITY Coalition held a press conference to kick off November as Anti-Displacement Month, with upcoming events dedicated to inspire the Buffalo community to build a prosperous city for all.
Democracy Fellow Bernadette Giles shares her community project on women's professional development with The Public Good.
In solidarity with our partner, the New York Immigration Coalition, Open Buffalo opposes the unraveling of federal protections for the rights of migrant children.
The federal administration continues its attack on immigrant communities, but you can speak up against its policies!
Open Buffalo welcomed the return of Climbing PoeTree for a free community performance that inspired and energized all in attendance.
F.B. Community Land Trust receives the coveted “Voters Choice” award at IGNITE! Community Pitch Fest for their innovative work against displacement and towards neighborhood solutions.
OB Executive Director Franchelle Parker spoke up for policy solutions to the gender pay gap that disproportionately afflicts Black women.
Members of the Buffalo Police Advisory Board go on The Public Good to discuss residents’ top concerns about policing collected from community forums and next steps to improve policing in Buffalo.
On the Buffalo Bus Tour, Open Buffalo's Emerging Leaders traded the classroom for an opportunity to learn about the city on the road and on foot.
Democracy Fellow Michelle Jones discusses her project, From the Inside Out, on The Public Good.
Thirty leaders hail from a number of neighborhoods in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, and each one is committed to bringing about real change in our communities and breaking the cycles of oppression.
Open Buffalo was proud to participate as a partner with BAS, and in support of incredible visual artist Muhammad Z. Zaman (2018 Open Buffalo Emerging Artist).
Have you heard? Open Buffalo has officially moved into the historic Jefferson Avenue corridor!
Democracy Fellow Mike Zak talks with the Public Good about his fellowship project, curriculum development for a youth training program with Gro-operative on Buffalo's East Side.
During Fearless Cities summit, Community Organizer India Walton led an engaging and informative workshop titled “Strategies for Reclaiming Land for Communities.”
Buffalo Arts Studio is proud to present a special Summer 2018 project titled "Connections," providing an opportunity to meaningfully link artists with communities.
Calling Buffalo-based visual artists, illustrators, and designers! El Museo is looking for you to be a part of our new project Your Utica Station. Deadline to apply is July 31.
Next Generation United is looking for 10 orgranizations to compete for funding for community impact projects and programs.
Find out how mentoring an Open Buffalo Emerging Leader makes a meaningful contribution toward a stronger and more resilient community.
Nicole Hallett is featured on The Public Good to discuss her research on widespread violations of wage and safety laws in Buffalo.
Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders are dynamic community leaders, representing a diverse range of identities and from every corner of Buffalo. This installment features Andrea Gonzalez, a 2017 graduate.
Democracy Fellow Andrew Marcum talks with the Public Good about his project to increase civic and community engagement among folks with disabilities in Buffalo & Erie County.
May 15 fundraiser was a time to take stock of progress and lay groundwork for an even brighter future.
OB's Lead Organizer India Walton discusses disparities within marijuana enforcement in Buffalo and the fight to make marijuana the lowest level enforcement priority (LLEP) for Buffalo police.
The Partnership for the Public Good and Open Buffalo release report revealing widespread violations of wage and safety laws in Buffalo.
Ten cities will work together on strategies to fight displacement and build inclusive, prosperous cities.
Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders are dynamic community leaders, representing a diverse range of identities and from every corner of Buffalo. This installment features Jillian Hanesworth, a 2017 graduate.
Be a part of Western New York's day of giving - an opportunity to unite our community around causes in which we truly believe and help nonprofit organizations connect to the larger community.
OB Justice & Opportunity partners advocated for creation of new entity, which will make recommendations on how community-police relationships can be improved.
Community groups applaud reform, reiterate longstanding call for
full-scale community policing program.
Land trust will empower Fruit Belt residents to determine and design the future of their neighborhood.
Are you resolved to make a difference in 2018? Apply today to become a Champion for Change with One Region Forward!
Next Generation United seeks interest from nonprofits that could use a grant of up to $4,000 to advance their work in the Buffalo and Erie County community.
Reception & silent auction will feature photos taken by members of Buffalo's social justice community.
Two dozen individuals graduate, empowered and inspired to improve Buffalo.
PPG has written a new report for the Open Buffalo Innovation Lab titled “Affordable Housing Strategies for the City of Buffalo.”
Local housing advocates and experts have responded to presentations of the City of Buffalo’s draft Housing Opportunity Strategy that were made to various groups this week.
New Buffalo Report Shows Stark Marijuana Arrest Disparities.
Hill is a well-respected authority on culture, politics, and education, as well as the author of a New York Times Best Seller.
Hill is a well-respected authority on culture, politics, and education, as well as the author of a New York Times Best Seller.
The summit stressed the interconnectedness of several problems in Buffalo, including police violence, the school to prison pipeline, lack of community control over resources, and racism.
As part of Open Buffalo’s annual Justice & Opportunity Series, we are hosting a competition for Buffalo high school students who want to make a difference in their community!
Weekend was not only a time to bond with fellow participants, but also an opportunity to reflect and meditate on the reasons why we feel called to fight for the betterment of Buffalo.
Tell your elected officials: We want gender equality in our city. We need the Buffalo CEDAW ordinance to secure the rights of all people of all genders in this great city.
Statewide NY Renews coalition pushes for legislative reforms to advance climate and community justice.
We welcomed a warm and engaged crowd of poets, musicians, spoken word artists, and community-minded souls for an evening of expression, healing, celebration, and movement-building.
Throughout the two-day festival, we talked to community members about tangible paths to systemic reforms.
Democracy Fellows will receive instruction in community-based skills, work directly in the community, and develop a community project that will be presented at the end of the fellowship.
Buffalo Arts Studio and Open Buffalo moderated a panel discussion between painter Julia Douglas, Professor Henry Louis Taylor, author Gary Earl Ross, poet Bianca McGraw, and filmmaker Korey Green.
On April 28, 2017, we were proud to help Buffalo-based visual artist Julia Douglas celebrate the opening of her first solo exhibition, titled “Tinted.”
From the day that Prisoners Are People Too, Inc. was launched, it has provided a platform for formerly incarcerated people and their loved ones to tell their stories.
The program aims to raise up new leaders on Buffalo's West Side and empower residents on the West Side to have a voice in the West Side Promise Neighborhood coalition.
Mentors play an important role in supporting the new leaders of Buffalo!
New Profile of Buffalo Highlights Dramatic Inequities and Opportunities to Reverse Them
Position will lead community education, research, and planning efforts with the goal of developing a replicable participatory planning process and producing a comprehensive community energy plan.
It is unacceptable for New York to forgo aggressive climate action as President Trump works to dismantle vital climate and environmental protections. Support the Climate & Community Protection Act.
A fund has been established to assist the residents of the Fruit Belt community so that they will have a say in the building and revitalization of their community.
The Community Youth Fellowships will support dynamic activists aged 18-25 who want to implement a project of their own design that advances human rights.
This co-op is an answer to the lack of black food store ownership in the black community. It is an attempt at giving ownership and control to those that live in the community. It is an effort to allow the dollar to circulate in the community.
The Emerging Leaders program is a distinctive social justice curriculum aimed at building a stronger Buffalo.
Concerned people of Buffalo demand and deserve a swift and painstakingly transparent inquiry into the death of a civilian after an encounter with the Buffalo Police Department.
Open Buffalo joins a host of community allies in rallying in support of our immigrant, Muslim, and refugee neighbors and loved ones.
Fruit Belt Community Land Trust Fundraiser Coming Friday, Feb. 3.
Buffalo needs leadership that understands and fights for the needs of all — regardless of race, class, or gender.
By linking the production of affordable housing to the production of market-rate housing, Inclusionary Zoning is a powerful tool to combat Buffalo's affordable housing crisis.
The 2016 Emerging Leaders are 24 dynamic community leaders, representing a diverse range of identities and from every corner of Buffalo.
Climbing PoeTree is a duo of longtime “soul sisters” whose voices and rhythmic creations have touched justice movements around the globe.
The Community Youth Fellowships will support dynamic activists aged 18–25 who want to implement a project of their own design that advances human rights in underserved communities.
Calls for Collaboration, Communication, and Community-Building
This week, we were proud to recognize the work of our first social justice-themed photography class, “VISIONS: A Photographic Journey in Social Justice.”
Franchelle Hart (Open Buffalo) and Steve Peraza (Partnership for the Public Good) discuss the content of the special-edition "No Boundaries" newspaper.
NGU seeks interest from local nonprofits that could use a grant of up to $5,000 to advance their work in the areas of education, financial stability, and/or health & wellness.
In collaboration with Open Buffalo, Rise Collaborative debuts the first issue of "No Boundaries" - a special-edition, free newspaper carrying stories from typically underreported areas of Buffalo.
Social-justice themed photography class will culminate in Nov. 11 exhibition and silent auction, hosted by CEPA Gallery and Open Buffalo.
Open Buffalo kicked off the 2016 session of Emerging Leaders on Friday, Sept. 9, officially marking the 2nd year of the program.
If you are an organizer, and want to change the way we get around WNY then you should apply!
The Women in Leadership recognition is given out every month thanks to a partnership between the Buffalo Niagara Chapter of New State Women, Inc. and Channel 7 WKBW-TV.
Town Hall Meeting in Buffalo’s Masten District Served as an Open Forum for Local Residents and Law Enforcement
Looking to help change your community? Do you have a few extra hours a week? How about serving as a mentor for the Open Buffalo emerging leaders program?
On August 3, Buffalo Peacemakers gathered in a Peace Circle that invited honest self-revelation and healing.
Between July 18 and 22, Open Buffalo held its first “Justice and Opportunity Week” — five days of free community discussions, performances, and workshops throughout the city of Buffalo.
Open Buffalo Partners Outline the Agenda for Week of Citizen Empowerment, Report on Results of Groundbreaking Community Policing Survey.
Conducting brief, in-person interviews, surveyors engaged a truly diverse cross-section of the city population – men and women of different races, ages, genders, and class statuses, who reside in neighborhoods that span over thirty zip codes.
Five days of community education and empowerment brought to you by the Open Buffalo movement. With featured guest D’Artagnan Scorza, Ph.D., the nationally renowned Founder and Executive Director of the Social Justice Learning Institute (Inglewood, CA).
During the week of July 18, we will be kicking off our first-ever “Justice & Opportunity Week” to educate, inspire, and mobilize Buffalo.
The Emerging Leaders program is a distinctive social justice curriculum aimed at building a stronger Buffalo by preparing new leaders in our city.
A longtime supporter and ally, Perez recently sat down with Open Buffalo to share a picture of the city, through his eyes.
For "Hidden Histories," TAP participants researched culturally significant sites in Buffalo and created the historic markers that they deserve.
At Press Event/Community Cookout, Allied Groups Outline Proposal for Community Control and Revitalization of Hundreds of Vacant Lots in the Historic Fruit Belt Neighborhood.
On two hot and sunny June days, Open Buffalo staff and volunteers joined hundreds of others at Buffalo’s Juneteenth Festival in MLK Park on June 18 and 19.
The open house marked the opening of our new space and was an opportunity to welcome the new additions to our staff.
The program, modeled after Open Buffalo’s Emerging Leaders program, will include 15 dynamic, passionate leaders from Buffalo’s West Side.
Citizen Action of New York would like to invite members of the public with a love of social justice to consider attending this year's Justice Works.
None of us has the luxury of thinking climate change is someone else's problem, not even Albany.
Estevez Prada will work with Open Buffalo through June and July through a Cornell University High Road Fellowship.
Lifelong Buffalonian Venezia Appleby is an Assistant Director of Respite Quality for People Inc., a board member of Just Buffalo Literary Center, and an Open Buffalo Emerging Leader.
We are asking organizations that care about the transition to a renewable energy future to spread the word about these hearings and the public comment period.
The Foundry is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that supports small business growth and hands-on education.
Hundreds will converge on Buffalo this July for national conference about visionary solutions and strategies that put people and planet first.
Bishop brings wealth of experience to new role as Economic and Climate Justice Coordinator.
Brian Brown-Cashdollar is coming back to WNYCOSH.
After 10 years of working with the refugee community in Buffalo, Brian is coming back to
On the Eve of Earth Day, Local Grassroots Organizations Host New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman for a Community Conversation on Climate Justice.
Open Buffalo's Franchelle Hart and Shareef Ali II were recently interviewed on The Public Good Radio Show.
An incredibly diverse group of 75 children and teens in a series of workshops, activities, and theater games connected to climate change and climate justice.
MAP is THE place to get involved in addressing food insecurity issues in Buffalo! And NOW is the time to get involved!
Collective's kickoff effort is a campaign to pass NY Renews climate justice reforms in Albany.
In her new role, Ghirmatzion will oversee the organization’s programs and day-to-day operations.
Karima Amin, Founder/Director of Prisoners Are People Too, discusses her life's many phases and her mission to empower some of Buffalo's most vulnerable souls.
Survey kickoff gathering was packed with energized residents, ready to make changes in our city.
Resident groups within the Fruit Belt, along with HRED Table allies from across Buffalo, have adopted the name "Community First Alliance."
An original short story by Queen Akilah YOHE-RA.
The Justice and Opportunity (J&O) table's Community Oriented Policing campaign continues to gain momentum in the new year.
The Low Income Taxpayer Clinic provides representation, advice, and referral services to low-income taxpayers who have disputes with the IRS or cannot afford to pay federal income taxes that are owed.
PPG is delighted to release a policy brief by Lawrence Brooks outlining some of the key points from his book Buffalo Niagara; Diagnosis and Prescription for Change.
Coalition of labor, community, and religious organizations commissioned the PPG to produce a comprehensive study on racial employment inequality in the Buffalo-Niagara region.
PPG's "Community-Oriented Policing" focus area correlates with Open Buffalo's Community-Oriented Policing campaign.
Taxpayers, advocates declare support for enforcement of new Pay Equity Policy before ECIDA Board meeting.
“NY Renews” campaign for good jobs, healthy communities, and 100% clean energy launches with support from over 40 community, labor, and environmental groups.
Community-builders from all sides of Buffalo made up leadership development program’s inaugural class.
In addition to our expanding table, we have empowered various subcommittees to move research and strategic planning along.
Community Talks will be a means of hearing about individuals’ experiences and interactions with police.
Julie Algubani, a local parent, activist, and Emerging Leaders participant, sits down for a Q&A with Open Buffalo.
In a well-stated Nov. 22 opinion piece, essayists Fred Floss and Sam Magavern explained the wisdom of gradually increasing New York state's minimum wage to $15.
Profiling Patricia Elliott, a local change-maker who has enrolled in Open Buffalo's social justice school -- Emerging Leaders.
Canisius College student David Goodwin recently produced a short (12 minute) documentary film about recidivism, entitled "The Very Same House: Recidivism in Buffalo."
Two vibrant new pieces of Buffalo youth artwork demand your attention.
PPG Community Agenda is a blueprint to help realize their shared vision of a just, sustainable, and culturally vibrant Buffalo.
Today, a group of 19 High Road Economic Development Table partner organizations spoke with one voice.
Recent news story titled "Advocates: Immediate Support Crucial For People Let Out of Federal Prison Early" featured Pastor James Giles and George BaBa Eng of Back to Basics Outreach Ministries
"This week was yet another exciting week for the movement to raise wages and expand workers' rights across the country."
"Now we can gather at the Ray of Light Mural site and in the spaces of the Buffalo Arts Studio to provide Peace and Healing Circles to the community."
Our recently formed Justice & Opportunity Table has been convening since August.
Open Buffalo’s High Road Economic Development table continues to develop strategies to ensure that local development takes into consideration the needs of all.
Stacey Robinson is a Buffalo transplant, a powerful visual artist, and an Open Buffalo partner. In this interview, he discusses his journey, his work, and his vision for the Queen City.
Mayor Brown thanks the leadership and staff of Open Buffalo for joining individuals and organizations across Buffalo in signing the pledge.
Inspired by the memory of Ms. Jerald "Dee Dee" Goldsmith, the Ray of Light will serve as an artistic beacon of peace in the community surrounding Masten Park.
The Skateland Mural Raising Party was an open, inclusive, outdoor/indoor, family-friendly, community-wide celebration of diversity.
Participants learned how to build campaigns for positive social change from the ground up, using their heads, hearts, and hands.
We are pleased to spread the news that our partners at VOICE-Buffalo recently started a new chapter at a new office space in the Tri-Main Center.
Amid the ongoing fight for economic justice, Rev. Kirk Laubenstein recently sat down with Open Buffalo to discuss his path to activism, the Fight for $15, and more.
Open Buffalo’s Emerging Leaders Program is a brand new leadership development training school which aims to build a stronger Buffalo by preparing new leaders in our city.
Allied grassroots activists converged on Massachusetts Avenue Park Tuesday morning for a press conference and community cookout.
Many in Buffalo are fed up with school board member Carl Paladino, and rallied to fight the systemic racism permeating our city and schools.
Karima Amin, Founder/Director of Prisoners Are People Too, Inc., reports Restorative Justice progress in the Alden correctional facility.
High Road Fellows Caro Achar and Lauren Lang speak about their backgrounds, their interests, and what drew them to spend a summer embedded in Buffalo's social justice movement.
Pastor James Giles of Back to Basics, Buffalo Peace Makers and Voice Buffalo discusses community policing in Buffalo with Sam Magavern on the Public Good.
The Open Buffalo Program Associate is part office manager, part events coordinator, part executive assistant, part community liaison, part social networker and full-time agent for change.
Coalition of residents, community groups, and labor allies calls for immediate passage of Fruit Belt parking legislation (A.7574-A / S.5306-A)
Beautiful weather and jubilant crowds lining Genesee Street made for a memorable Juneteenth of Buffalo 2015 Parade last Saturday.
New Innovation Lab Brief Explains How a Raise for Fast Food Workers Will Help Western New York.
On May 14, Nicole Lee, world-renowned human rights lawyer, returned to her hometown to give a talk at Greater Works Christian Fellowship.
Dr. Leon Botstein, thinker, conductor, and Bard College president, didn't disappoint in Buffalo.
Fruit Belt residents have drafted elements of a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) that would enable long-term neighborhood residents to benefit from economic development, and prevent displacement.
On Saturday, April 18, Open Buffalo presented an “Organizing for Change” workshop at One Region Forward’s Citizen Planning School.
New “Getting There" report gives up-to-date context to Buffalo’s attendance discussion and offers evidence-based proposals to turn this negative trend around.
Thanks to the folks who took a few moments to reflect with us at our Buffalo Dream Wall!
"Fight for 15" proponents from across New York State took to the state Capitol Building in Albany yesterday
Topics will include “Poverty, Race and Community Policing;” “Understanding the Experiences of New Americans in Buffalo;” and “An Exploration into the Lives of Chronically Homeless Women.”
"Assemblage" and "Binary ConScience" kick off March 27 at Buffalo Arts Studio
The Open Places All-Site Convening met from February 18 through 20 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
New Innovation Lab reports and examine socially conscious arts groups in Erie County and look at best practices in marrying the arts and community justice work.
Join Open Buffalo and Partnership for the Public Good for a night of great theater, March 12.
It is more vital than ever to have community and business aligned so that we might begin to erase the social and economic divides that have defined our city for far too long.
Open Buffalo Innovation Lab Releases Policy Briefs: "High Road Economic Development: Best Practices" and "The High Road Economy: Principles & Practices."
As Scribe, Hill aims to similarly magnify and empower the voices of those with whom Open Buffalo works.
Trainers from Dismantling Racism Works empower Open Buffalo recruits with new tools of race analysis.
Partnership for the Public Good's 2015 community agenda includes research support for Open Buffalo campaigns.
The shift from permanent to temporary jobs has been dramatic in recent years, and it is an important reason for the growth in economic inequality and poverty.
Buffalo fast-food workers went on strike for the first time, joining the "Fight for $15" movement.
Open Buffalo's rigorous Leading Change workshop weekend led social justice-minded crowd to breakthroughs and connections.
Magic School Bus Tour looks at the “good, bad, and ugly” of Western New York industrial development agencies.
How does Buffalo talk about Buffalo, and what impact do our stories have on public policy?
Ujima recently welcomed Open Buffalo for a night of challenging and inspiring theater.
Our partners at Coalition for Economic Justice had a successful worker mobilization training session last weekend.
Open Society Foundations announces Buffalo is one of three sites selected for funding in the Open Places Initiative.
Open Buffalo releases a new report, Alarming Disparities: The Disproportionate Number of African American and Hispanic People in Erie County Criminal Justice System
Open Buffalo releases a new report, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus: A High Road Strategy to Maximize the Community’s Benefit.
The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation Board of Directors adopted a set of high road economic development principles to guide economic development initiatives for the Buffalo Waterfront.
Open Buffalo has taken over the airwaves this summer on the Partnership for the Public Good’s weekly radio show, The Public Good, to talk about some of the most pressing issues facing our community.
Planning Council members and Open Buffalo staffers are headed to Denver, CO where they will receive objective input and feedback on the draft proposal submitted in early August.
At Asbury Hall Wednesday night, members of Young Invnicibles shared a bill with local performers to bring civic engagement tools to Buffalo.
Franchelle Hart of 1199 SEIU speaks about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
In today's Buffalo News, one resident talks about the need for community development and revitalization alongside economic development, to truly turn Buffalo around.
The Young Invincibles, a national organization committed to mobilizing and expanding opportunities for young American, will be in Buffalo this week, and they've been in the news.
Open Buffalo presents “Involved, Informed, Invincible!” an evening of music, dance, and activism, featuring leaders from the Young Invincibles and local performers.
Emily Oaks & Kathleen Heim of the Service Collaborative of WNY speak about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Heather McGhee of Demos spoke to Buffalo residents in Asbury Hall on Tuesday, July 23rd. Daughters of Creative Sound, Dr. Anthony Neal, and Randle and the Late Night Scandals rounded out the evening.
Ras Jomo speaks about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Heather C. McGhee is the Vice President of Policy and Outreach at Demos, a public policy organization. She will be speaking to Buffalo residents about upward mobility, inequality and the American Dream.
Two calls were sounded earlier this month in The Buffalo News to end the practice of foreclosing and then auctioning off city houses for unpaid garbage fees.
Sam Radford of the District Parent Coordinating Council (DPCC) speaks about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Shane Depree-Fry and Heather Rusell of Verve Dance Studio speak about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
In a report issued in June by the National Center for Children Living in Poverty, Buffalo has the third highest percentage in the nation of children living in poverty.
The West Side of Buffalo was buzzing with activity Saturday, with two festivals running on Grant Street between Lafayette Avenue and Hampshire Street. On one end was the Myanmar New Year Water Festival, and the Lafayette end saw the Taste of Diversity festival at a new location in its 11th year.
Michael Hill of the Langston Hughes Institute speaks about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Buffalo’s 36th consecutive Juneteenth Festival could not have asked for better parade weather on Saturday at Martin Luther King Jr. Park at the intersection of Best Street and Fillmore Avenue. With some light winds and slightly cloudy skies residents came out in full force to celebrate the city’s African American culture and heritage. Sunday residents continued to flock to the park, despite the slightly dodgier forecast.
Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown was on hand Thursday night to celebrate the West Side Bazaar’s grand opening of their international kitchens, and to discuss the work People United for Sustainable Housing (PUSH Buffalo) have done with the community.
Sara Jablonski of Food for All speaks about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Last night was the first Advisory Board meeting for Open Buffalo. The members of the Advisory Board discussed the development of the proposal and shared insights with the Open Buffalo staff.
Dave Bauer of Sustainable Earth Solutions speaks about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
ArtFarms' David Lage and Sarah Maurer speak about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Members of Leaving Our Legacy speak about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Reverend James Giles of Back to Basics Ministries speaks about about Open Buffalo on the Public Good. A half-hour talk radio show on WUFO AM 1080 the Public Good airs at 1pm on Tuesday afternoons.
Four Buffalo nonprofits were awarded $100,000 from the Open Society Foundations to design a plan to increase low-income and minority communities’ influence and access to economic, civic, and political opportunities in the area.