The STooPS Bed Stuy event recently lit up the historic Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhood in Brooklyn, bringing together a blend of arts, culture, and community engagement. Organized by Kendra J. Bostock and her team, the event served as a vibrant reminder of the power of community-focused initiatives. STooPS, a unique arts crawl that highlights local legends and stoop culture, succeeded in creating a meaningful gathering while raising significant funds for its mission.
At the heart of this effort was Miss Al Boogie, a multi-talented dancer, choreographer, and musician, who also holds the role of Marketing Director for STooPS. Her remarkable fundraising skills, honed through a Crowdfunding for Business Challenge, helped the organization raise $17,000. Miss Al Boogie previously raised $4,000 to build her own home music studio using these same strategies, a testament to the power of effective crowdfunding.
Throughout the event, attendees witnessed creative fundraising tactics in action. QR codes on large placards, merchandise sales, and other on-the-spot contributions were key drivers behind the success. The event not only celebrated local artists but also showcased how community-based projects can be financially sustainable.
Highlights included a performance by Batalá New York, the premier all-women, Black-led percussion ensemble, and various arts and crafts activities. One notable moment was when STooPS Founder Kendra Bostock recognized local legends for their significant contributions to the community. The energy and passion on Decatur Street were palpable, as performers, children, and locals came together to celebrate and support their neighborhood.
This inspiring story was shared on social media, where creative director and storyteller Iquo B. Essien, a key supporter of the event, encouraged others to take note of the innovative fundraising methods used. Essien, whose LinkedIn post spotlighted the success, also promoted her Crowdfunding for Business Challenge, an on-demand course designed to empower entrepreneurs and community leaders to fund their own ventures.
STooPS Bed Stuy was more than just an event; it was a model of how culture, creativity, and community collaboration can thrive with the right support and innovative fundraising techniques. For more details about STooPS, visit their website, and learn from their successful journey of building community through art.