Kendra Liddell: The Heart of Community Engagement in Seattle's Central District
Kendra Liddell, the Community Engagement Coordinator for the Central District Community Preservation and Development Authority (CDCPDA), is a name synonymous with service and dedication in Seattle's Central District. In a recent conversation with Trae Holiday, Liddell shared her journey from a passionate volunteer to a pivotal figure in community development.
Liddell's approach is rooted in a deep-seated desire to serve. She began by identifying gaps in community support at events and proactively offering her assistance. This hands-on approach allowed her to build a strong network and gain firsthand knowledge of the community's needs. Her professional background in community service seamlessly translated into her volunteer work, making her a valuable asset to numerous initiatives.
Her involvement with the CDCPDA began through her connection with CEO Shaude’ Moore, whom she met while volunteering for the MLK organizing coalition. After years of overlapping work in the community, Liddell joined the CDCPDA board in January 2024. Recognizing that her skills were best utilized in a more direct role, she transitioned to the position of Community Engagement Coordinator, a role she feels is "the work that I am born to do."
Liddell's work extends beyond the typical nine-to-five. She is a natural connector, constantly seeking opportunities to link people with resources. Her social media presence, under the name "Miss Publicity," serves as a platform to share various community opportunities. She prides herself on listening to people's needs and ensuring they receive relevant information. This dedication to connectivity is a driving force in her role at the CDCPDA.
The CDCPDA, housed in the former Seattle Vocational Institute building, is actively working to create a community hub. Liddell emphasized the importance of collective ownership and input from the community to ensure the space reflects their needs and desires. The goal is to create a sustainable space for the next 50 years.
Upcoming Event:
The CDCPDA is hosting its inaugural "Springing Forward Brunch for Black Economic Brilliance" on April 19th, a Saturday, from 11 am to 1 pm at the Amazon Frontier. This benefit brunch aims to gather community support for grassroots organizations and highlight the importance of community-driven funding. The event will feature MCs Chardonnay Beaver and Converge Media’s own Deaunte Damper and sponsors like the Urban League, Byrd Barr Place, and Amazon Black Employment Network. Raffle prizes include items from Alaska Airlines and an experience from Seattle Reign, with free Sounders match tickets for all registrants. This event is also an opportunity for the community to learn more about the CDCPDA's mission and vision.
To stay updated on the CDCPDA's activities and future workshops, follow them on Facebook and LinkedIn at "Central District Community Preservation and Development Authority" and https://centraldistrictcpda.org/
