Open Buffalo's Eco Justice Block Party Returns To Jefferson Avenue

Go Gettas, the Town Rundown is back, and Buffalo is giving us reasons to get outside, connect and get involved. From family fun to mentorship and financial empowerment, these events are about more than having somewhere to go. They are about community.

First up, Open Buffalo is bringing back its 3rd Annual Eco Justice Block Party this Saturday, September 12, from 11 AM to 4 PM at Jefferson-Utica Plaza, 1307 Jefferson Avenue. This community gathering has something for everybody: a bounce house and slide, obstacle course, mechanical bull, face painting, balloons, petting zoo, DJ and live band, free food, vendors and more. What I love is that the fun comes with purpose, bringing grassroots organizations, businesses and community partners together to talk about protecting our environment and resisting climate change.

Looking ahead to Friday, October 2, the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers is hosting its Fall Fest from 5:30 to 8 PM at 76 Orange Street in Buffalo. Vendors, this is one to get on your radar too, because BFNC is inviting vendors to register for tables.

Also on October 2, Girls 2 Women Mentoring Program kicks off its 2026–2027 program year with Parent Orientation from 6 to 8:30 PM at Elim Christian Fellowship, 70 Chalmers Avenue. The program meets every first and third Friday and offers young ladies opportunities centered around spiritual formation, wellness, career exploration, community service, arts, culture, mother-daughter fellowship and more. I’m always here for programs pouring into the next generation of women.

Then mark Saturday, October 17, because John Hope Bryant is coming back to Buffalo for “Building a Way Forward” at the BFNC Event Center, 2365 Main Street, from 11 AM to 1 PM. The conversation will focus on what financial freedom looks like and how we can get there. Adult attendees will also have an opportunity to receive a free copy of his book, Capitalism for All, along with a book signing.

Buffalo, this is what I mean when I say there is ALWAYS something happening in the town. Whether you want family fun, resources for our young people, opportunities to support local vendors or conversations that can change how we think about money, there is something for you.

Get those calendars out, Go Gettas. I’ll keep finding out what’s happening, so you know where we’re going next!