Seattle Center Foundation Programs
Seattle Center offers year-long FREE public events that highlight the distinct cultures of our region’s ethnic communities, as well as educational programs and exhibits enjoyed by all ages. These programs and festivals build community, link diverse cultures across neighborhoods and generations, and create understanding and appreciation of the various cultures that enrich our community.
The Next Fifty
In 1962, Seattle was forever changed. The 1962 Seattle World’s Fair propelled our city into the global spotlight and established our community as a hub of innovation and commerce that continues today. The Next Fifty will do more than just look back at the past; it will again ignite the creativity and vision of the community and look towards a shared future. SCF worked with community volunteers to plan over 250 free and low-cost events, exhibits. It is an important civic milestone which is capturing a renewed sense of imagination, innovation and involvement for The Next Fifty years.
If you have read any of the history of those early days of planning for the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair — you know that was true for them as it is for us –turning the dream into reality requires investment. Unlike the 1962 Fair, The Next Fifty will not have an entrance fee. Your contribution supports the free and affordable public programs at Seattle Center.
Recent Successes and Current Challenges
In 2006, SCF completed the capital campaign for Marion Oliver McCaw Hall. Since 2009, SCF has worked with hundreds of community volunteers to plan The Next Fifty events from April 21 - Oct 21 The Next Fifty will highlight a theme a month: sustainable futures, science and technology, global health, learning, commerce and the innovation economy, and civic action – with events, exhibitions, experiences and discussions. Arts, culture, design and history are woven throughout the six months.
One new project is
Seattle Takes Care - a Next 50 project that gives our community practical ways to volunteer and make a difference for folks in our own backyard and our neighbors across the world. Volunteering is a great way for individuals, families and/or groups, to get involved. Join us and make a tangible difference in the lives of many – near and far.
- April - Oct: Habitat for Humanity build: House of the Immediate Future
- May 12 - 13 Ballard Food Bank Drive
- June 9-10 Page Ahead Book Drive
- July 15 Medical Teams International – Hope Kits for Children
- Aug. 3 World Vision – Promise Packs and School Tools Kits
- Sept. 8 Union Gospel Mission Sock Drive
- Oct. 14 Operation Homefront - Baby Shower for Military Families