History and Mission

Cascade People’s Center’s mission is “Empowering people to grow strong, sustainable families and communities.” Cascade People’s Center (CPC) is a beloved resource for the Cascade community, providing free programs and space, and serving thousands of Seattle residents. Ten years ago, community members rallied to save the building from being torn down and to create a community center focused on family support and environmental sustainability, and also to create a P-Patch and the Garden of Happiness. Today, we are stronger than ever with over 6,000 Center users and over 70% of the work done by volunteers. With the Cascade neighborhood drastically changing as a result of the South Lake Union development, the Center is a place of consistency and familiarity for thousands of low income and transitioning families who are being pushed out of their neighborhood. Not only is CPC a family and community support center, but it also stands for social and environmental justice in the community.

Facts & Figures

• Over 6,000 people use and support the Center each year. Most participants (over 90%) live below the median income.

• The Center is an active place. Last year people spent more than 25,000 hours participating in programs and accessing resources.

• Cascade People’s Center is staffed primarily by volunteers. Last year 423 people contributed almost 14,000 hours!

• More than 50% of the Center’s budget is funded by in-kind support, including staff, space, services and materials. In addition, the Center relies on generous gifts from individuals, businesses, churches and other community organizations.

Participant Statistics & Demographics

• Nearly 500 families participate in Cascade People’s Center programs annually

• 87% of these families are low, or very low income as assessed by the City of Seattle

• In 2007 nearly 60% are families of color, with 25% identifying as Black or African American, and 21% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Family Centers are particularly suited to working with disenfranchised communities

• Over 10% of participating families identify as a recent immigrant or refugees.

• More than 16% of families have limited English-speaking skills.

• Almost 10% of participants do not have homes