Intersect Buffalo

Great work is being done all over our community everyday! Thank you Building Blocks Collective for your love, care, and service to and for our community!

On July 4, 2026, the Delavan Grider community experienced a tragedy that shook us all.

But on July 8, a different story began to be written.

More than 400 residents, youth, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, businesses, block club leaders, and The City of Buffalo representatives gathered at Mt. Oliver Baptist Church—not simply to talk about what happened, but to build a plan for what comes next.

For two hours, the room was focused on one goal: becoming experts at executing solutions rather than experts at discussing problems.

Thank you to Councilwoman of the Masten District Zeneta B. Everhart, Director of City of Buffalo Office of Gun Violence Prevention Adrienne Garr, LMSW, and Intersect Buffalo CEO & President Kyria Stephens for convening a space where collaboration took precedence over division and where every voice had the opportunity to shape the path forward for Buffalo Masten District

Most importantly, thank you to the young people who showed up. Your presence reminded us that solutions must be built with youth, not just for youth.

This was not the finish line. It was the first step in what must become a sustained commitment to creating safer neighborhoods, stronger opportunities, and a brighter future for our community.

Now the work begins.

The momentum for Bold Moves Only II: Built 2 Scale continues, and tickets are officially on sale now BUT if you read to the end of this post we have something special for you!!!

Featuring: JOHN HOPE BRYANT

We will have multiple sessions you don't want to miss. Over 20 speakers will be in attendance!

Topics on AI, Marketing, Branding, Cannabis, Fundraising, Foodpreneurs, and so much more.

For those parents who want to come, we have a YOUTH TRACK for your kids to attend for free!

This is what Built 2 Scale is all about: bringing real builders into the room to share strategy, insight, experience, and the kind of lessons entrepreneurs need for their next level.

Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 9a - 3p Day Conference then 5p - 10p Celebration
Location: The Statler Buffalo
Tickets: On sale now - https://boldmovesonly2.lovable.app/

But we got the hook up because our partners at The Exchange at Beverly Gray gave us the hook up!
If you USE CODE: BMO2-INTERSECT you can get tickets for free

Calling all BIPOC founders, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, this room is being built for you.

Better outcomes and real solutions take more than meetings and conversations. They require holistic strategy and relentless ex*****on.

If you’re ready to move beyond talking and take action, join us Wednesday. Your voice matters—and we need it in the room.

Last week, Intersect Buffalo was proud to partner with Broadway-Fillmore Neighborhood Housing Services to host a community workshop on the Vacant Rental Improvement Program (VRIP).

Thank you to everyone who joined us to learn more about the resources and funding opportunities available to help bring vacant residential properties back into service. The engagement, questions, and conversations throughout the evening reinforced the importance of connecting our community with information that can create a lasting impact.

We are especially grateful to Brandi Barrett and the Services team for sharing their expertise and helping property owners better understand how programs like VRIP can support neighborhood revitalization and increase access to quality housing.

Thank you, Northland Workforce Training Center, for being a great host!

At Intersect Buffalo, we remain committed to connecting residents, property owners, and entrepreneurs to opportunities that strengthen our neighborhoods and create pathways for growth.

Thank you again to everyone who attended. Together, we're building stronger communities one opportunity at a time!

Do you own a vacant rental property? Funding may be available to help you bring it back to life.

Vacant properties can become valuable community assets, and you may qualify for up to $75,000 to help make that happen.

Join Intersect Buffalo and Broadway-Fillmore Neighborhood Housing Services for a free information session on the Vacant Rental Improvement Program (VRIP). Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or property owner, this workshop will help you better understand available resources, funding opportunities, and the steps needed to get your property occupied again.

You'll learn:
✔️ How the VRIP program works
✔️ Eligibility requirements
✔️ Available grant funding opportunities
✔️ Resources to support your property improvement goals

📅 Wednesday, June 24, 2026
🕠 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Northland Workforce Training Center
683 Northland Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14211

Every restored property strengthens a block, supports neighborhood growth, and creates more housing opportunities for Buffalo residents.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn what's available and how to take the next step.

Register today:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/pgR89wv26h