Following the breakout success of last autumn’s inaugural event, the Joiner Jamboree is returning this spring with a mission to bridge the gap between neighbors and local action.
The second installment of this burgeoning civic tradition is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Evergreen High School.
The upcoming event follows the blueprint established on November 8, 2025, when the first Jamboree drew a broad cross-section of 62 participating groups to the Admiral Congregational United Church of Christ. While the first event served as a "civic-engagement accelerator" for West Seattle, organizers are now shifting the spotlight to the White Center community.
“Life happens locally,” the event’s organizers stated, emphasizing a theme of rediscovering the "Third Places" and grassroots organizations that define the area. Attendees at Evergreen High School can expect to meet with over 40 local groups, ranging from service organizations to hyper-local hobbyist clubs.
The Jamboree is designed as a direct remedy for post-pandemic social disconnection, encouraging residents to “plug back in” through volunteering and neighborhood stewardship. To ensure deep engagement rather than passive attendance, the event will likely bring back its signature door prize raffle; at the first Jamboree, participants had to visit at least five tables or the stage to validate their tickets.
Reflecting the charitable pillars of the first event, which featured warm clothing drives and food bank collections, the White Center iteration continues the focus on mutual aid. The event is hosted by a coalition including White Center Solidarity (the Neighbor Union), the West Seattle Timebank, and the White Center Community Development Association (CDA).
In addition to the organizational tables, the Jamboree maintains its "lively, welcoming environment" with expected interactive stations. If the previous event is any indication, neighbors may have the opportunity to vote on their favorite community gathering spots or propose new clubs they wish to see started in the area.
The event is free to the public and located at 830 SW 116th Street. For more details, community members are encouraged to follow @whitecentersolidarity on social media or visit the sign up page here.
