Hundreds of residents gathered at Evergreen High School on May 16, 2026, for the White Center Joiner Jamboree, an event designed to act as a "civic-engagement accelerator".

Co-sponsored by White Center Solidarity, the West Seattle Timebank, and the White Center Community Development Association, the Jamboree followed the success of an inaugural event held in West Seattle last autumn, aiming to connect neighbors with local organizations and causes.

The atmosphere was high-energy, featuring demonstrations from groups like the Southside Revolution Junior Roller Derby. Beth Lopez, representing the team, explained that they welcome kids ages 7 to 18, regardless of skill level. "We will train the kids. You can come in and literally not know how to [skate]," Lopez said, noting that the organization provides a gear library and scholarships to ensure the sport remains accessible.

Nearby, the White Center Teen Program highlighted its extensive offerings based out of the Steve Cox Memorial Park Log Cabin at 1321 SW 102nd. Staff members Kimberly, Emma, and Michael shared that the program provides "an insane amount of things," including sports, arts and crafts, junk journaling, and career assistance. Michael emphasized their upcoming "Peace N' Hood" event on June 3rd, which will feature a three-on-three basketball tournament and a job fair for local youth. "It’s mostly advertised for individuals who are looking for a first-time job with very limited experience," Michael explained, adding that 30+ vendors would be on-site to interview candidates. Check out WCTeenProgram.org

The Jamboree also spotlighted environmental and hobbyist groups. A Cleaner Alki, described by some as "the energizer community cleaner," was on hand to promote their monthly cleanup events.

Long-time participant Alan Dieringer was among those representing the West Seattle Amateur Radio Club the group, which works to keep people safe in the event of an emergency. 

Meanwhile, the West Seattle Rock Club, represented by Logan Smith, Scott Smith, Scott Ryan, and Barry Nevin, offered a space for geology enthusiasts to connect. You can join them at WestSeattleRockClub.org

Other notable attendees included Trent Grohe and Aditi Thapar-Grohe, as well as Rachel Glass with the 34th District Democrats, all of whom joined the dozens of organizations—ranging from the White Center Food Bank to West Seattle Indivisible that filled the school to foster community ties.

With over 40 groups participating, the Jamboree successfully continued its mission of helping White Center residents explore what it truly means to be part of a community.