Fundraiser: Historic Washington Chapel Restoration

Do Something Mo presents Spaghetti Dinner and a Chat to raise funds for the restoration of the Historic Washington Chapel CME, the last remaining African American Church in Parkville, Missouri. The church was built in 1907 by formerly enslaved people and their descendants. It served as a touchstone for the African American Community during segregation and the Civil Rights Movement. Its rich history is a story about strength, resilience and hope.

The church is being restored as an active church serving the local community as well as an event space and community center. In conjunction with the Banneker Freedman’s School, it will create an educational center on the history of African Americans in our community.

Doors Open at 5:30pm. The evening will begin with a silent auction featuring items curated from Main Street Parkville shops; a curated wine basket; a hand-sewn, one-of-a-kind quilt from Blankets of Hope; Watercolor from Local Artist, Alex Hamil, a pair of bookends created from original pews with a selection of related books and certificate of authenticity; memorative photos and posters will be available for a small donation (while supplies last!)

Guests are invited to mingle and look at displays about the history of the church, its restoration and its future.

Dinner will be served buffet style starting at 6pm. It includes spaghetti, salad, bread, dessert and non alcoholic beverages.

We will have a coffee and chat with the indomitable Douglass sisters, long-time members of the church and pillars of the Parkville African American Community who have spearheaded the restoration of the church and development of the Banneker Freedman’s School learning center. Barb Leutke will talk about her upcoming book on African American history in Platte County

Topics will include the history of the church, growing up in the community from segregations, to civil rights and beyond. The future of the church and the historical complex.

Donate Early by scanning one of the above QR codes for PayPal or Cash app or manually type in the handle. $15/Attendee. Put “Spaghetti” in the memo line. Show your payment at the door. Or bring cash or scan Cash App or PayPal when you arrive. Cash, PayPal or Check accepted for the Silent Auction.