A pearl in the forest: DNDA celebrates 30 years of community care at annual "Wine in the Woods"
Mon, 08/10/2026
Thirty years ago, a seed of an idea was planted in the Delridge neighborhood of West Seattle. Grounded in the foundational belief that strong communities are built when local residents have the opportunity to actively shape the places they call home, the Delridge Neighborhoods Development Association (DNDA) began its work. Today, as DNDA marks its pearl anniversary, that seed has grown into a deeply rooted network of affordable housing, cultural spaces, and thriving urban forests.
To celebrate this milestone, DNDA is inviting neighbors, supporters, and friends to its 30th annual Wine in the Woods gathering on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m..
Three Decades of Growth and Stewardship
Over the last thirty years, DNDA’s evolution has mirrored the growth and changes of the community itself. The organization has built a multifaceted legacy of care: creating and preserving affordable housing, stewarding the Youngstown Cultural Arts Center as a home for arts and culture, investing in local environment and green spaces, and providing critical support for youth and local artists.
Now, celebrating three decades of service, DNDA finds itself in a moment of thoughtful transition and future planning. Following a recent transition in leadership under Interim Executive Director Shannon Woodard, the organization is looking ahead to its next chapter.
"This past year has brought a transition in leadership and an opportunity to take a thoughtful look at where we have been, what our community needs from us now, and who we want to be for future generations," Woodard shared.
DNDA’s focus for the coming year is both ambitious and deeply practical: reinforcing its financial foundation, dedicating resources to the stewardship of Youngstown and its affordable housing properties, deepening community partnerships, and ensuring its environmental, arts, and youth programs continue to thrive.
An Afternoon in the Woods
For years, Wine in the Woods has stood as one of the community's most cherished annual traditions. It offers a beautiful, peaceful opportunity to step away from the bustle of daily life, enjoy locally sourced refreshments, reconnect with old friends, and meet new neighbors who share a passion for West Seattle.
This year's event holds a deeper significance. Hosted at the historic West Seattle home of Maryanne Tagney—a generous and long-standing DNDA supporter—guests will have the unique opportunity to stroll through a thoughtfully curated garden. The afternoon will feature locally sourced spirits from West Seattle wineries alongside delicious refreshments.
While the event is free to attend, its purpose is vital. Wine in the Woods serves as DNDA’s summer fundraiser for its Nature Programs, raising critical funds for summer environmental justice initiatives.
Investing in the Next Thirty Years
For DNDA, "showing up" is about more than just attending an event—it is about sustaining the essential network of neighbors, donors, volunteers, partners, artists, advocates, and friends who make community-driven work possible.
Whether guests choose to celebrate by raising a glass, reconnecting with the neighborhood's natural beauty, or making a financial gift to bolster DNDA’s long-term stability, every contribution helps the organization step into its next 30 years from a place of strength.
"Thirty years is worth celebrating," DNDA reminds its supporters, "and the community we are building for the next 30 is worth investing in".
Event Details & Attendance Information
- What: DNDA's 30th Annual Wine in the Woods
- When: Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Where: Hosted at the historic West Seattle home of Maryanne Tagney (specific location details provided upon RSVP)
- Attire: Semi-formal
- Cost: Free, but RSVP is strictly required
- RSVP Link: Click here to RSVP for Wine in the Woods
