Thank You for Supporting Destination Delridge!

By Nature Team | June 7, 2022

With your support we raised $101,769 through our Destination Delridge: Awaken event and campaign. We are hugely grateful to all 200 individuals who donated, and the 130+ guests who joined us in-person to celebrate at Youngstown. The funds raised will support DNDA’s general operations, uplifting all of our programs in art, nature and neighborhood.

Youngstown opened its doors to welcome 130+ (150+?) guests to celebrate DNDA programs on the evening of May 21st. Once inside our historic building, guests were greeted with a variety of artistic expression, starting with the island breezy sounds of Sabyu echoing throughout the hallways. Then, artwork by Kendra Azari, and ambient yet captivating aerial performance by Gabby Leiva and Amanda Thornton on our theatre stage. Guests also could participate in a lighthearted art activity, prompting them to “shape Delridge” from their perspective. Northwest Tap Connection gave an exciting intergenerational dance performance that brought a reverent and rich tone to the night’s festivities. On our outdoor stage, Goody Bagg held it down with hit after hit, inviting listeners to sway and swing as they enjoyed delicious Mediterranean fusion cuisine and drinks by Chef Mulu. Nearby, the talented Cleopatra Cutler worked on her live painting depicting the uplifting energy of the event. Shoutouts to our Emcees, Dimitri and Lash, who effortlessly guided us through the night’s program, from the beautiful Movement Studio. Jamaar Smiley awakened the crowd with a moving spoken word piece, following a heartfelt testimony from one of our youth mural program participants, Dream. We heard from DNDA’s Board President Shannon Woodard, and Executive Director David Bestock, and our community showed their love and support in our Raise the Paddle. And because no DNDA gala would be complete without a dance party, we rocked the night away to the beat of DJ Toya B following the program!

We would like to give a special shout out to all the artists who joined us at the event, to Chef Mulu Abate for the feast, to our incredible event sponsors, and of course to our incredible staff and volunteers. Thank you for supporting our work!