by Kirby Lindsay, posted 2 May 2014
The Fremont Public Association (F.P.A.) started among good-hearted activists, more interested in helping the poor and marginalized of our community than in keeping a clear record of their efforts. In 2014, the F.P.A., now called Solid Ground, celebrates over 40 years (although the exact number remains difficult to ascertain) of service to our region.
On May 8th, from 7p – 9p, at the Fremont Abbey Arts Center, everyone who ever stuffed a sack at the food bank, called for assistance with rent, or worked on one of the over two-dozen programs operated by the non-profit (or just knows the great work done by this organization to end poverty,) is invited for a free evening of sharing stories.
For one evening Fremonsters can celebrate the important, transformative work done by Solid Ground, its volunteers, and those who sought and accepted help in the tough times that comes to all of our lives. Mike Buchman, Communications Director for Solid Ground, has invited many of the Fremonsters who started the F.P.A. – or even laid the groundwork for it over 40 years ago – and those who took part in the early, grassroots efforts.
When They Pushed The Envelope
State Representative Frank Chopp started work at the FPA in 1976. According to his recollection, “It was very much an opinionated group, very activist oriented, as well as very creative. We were willing to push the envelope in terms of new things, really responding to community rather than sitting back.”
Over the evening, being called ‘Voices Of Building Community’, hear from others who gave a creative response within our community to the needs of those most in need – often themselves people living on low incomes and on the margins of society.
Begun after changes in federal funding cut back – and couldn’t meet – the problems in Fremont that included drug trafficking and high infant mortality rates, the FPA started as a combination of food/clothing/services bank. “We saw a need; we met it,” Chopp recalled for a piece written for the 40th Anniversary year of Solid Ground.
“The neighborhood was in economic distress,” Buchman described, “times were so different then than now,” although he has only been at Solid Ground for about half its history – 19½ years.
Today, more than 55,000 King County residents a year reach out to Solid Ground for the urgent assistance they and their families need, for tools and resources they can use to overcome poverty, and thrive. Many incredibly effective anti-poverty programs began at Solid Ground (some, like the FamilyWorks food bank, have become their own organizations.) Also, as an advocate, Solid Ground has given a voice to those struggling, by pushing for landmark legislation such as the State Housing Trust Fund, and protections from predatory lenders. Under CEO Gordon McHenry Jr., the non-profit continues to work to undo racism and change institutional practices that perpetuate poverty.
‘Flying Without A Net’
This free event is meant to bring together everyone who wants to share, and enjoy, the stories of 40 years of hard work. “The purpose of this is not fundraising,” Buchman explained, “this is just an opportunity to come together!” It’s about community building and celebration, he said, “for anyone who has any touch with this agency at all. Join us!”
“It’s a whole year of celebrating,” explained Buchman, as this may be the first in a whole series of ‘Voices Of Community’. In order to reach more of those who have taken part in Solid Ground’s outreach over the years, the organizers want to hold similar evenings at other Solid Ground locations. “We talked to a lot of our programs,” he said, during planning for the anniversary, “and we heard that they want to celebrate in community.” Right now, other ‘Voices’ sharing events are expected for South Park and Sandpoint, in the Fall.
For this first ‘Voices’, expect to hear (and share, if you wish) any stories. “Tell the stories that have been part of the history,” Buchman encouraged, “We have some people we know are going to show up and tell a story,” but he’s also asked Seattle storyteller Kathya Alexander to be on-hand to facilitate everyone’s stories.
“We’re totally flying without a net,” Buchman acknowledged, “We don’t know what’s going to happen. We want to create an opportunity for people to say what community means to them.”
“We wouldn’t have gotten beyond being an interesting idea back in 1974 if it weren’t for community,” Buchman observed, and community continues to play a vital role in Solid Ground today.
It is hoped that our community will turn-out to celebrate and support ‘Voices Of Building Community,’ and enjoy an IPA beer made special by Fremont Brewing Company just for Solid Ground and its 40+ year anniversary. Join in the celebration, and the stories, as we learn about the fine work done so far – and how it illustrates all that may still be possible for ending homelessness, poverty and hopelessness in the future!
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©2014 Kirby Lindsay. This column is protected by intellectual property laws, including U.S. copyright laws. Reproduction, adaptation or distribution without permission is prohibited.