We believe a strong community is built on the understanding that we thrive together. We work with nonprofits, donors, and community leaders to support impactful philanthropy and create lasting solutions for a more equitable Greater Seattle.
For thirty years, N2N’s funding and resources have strengthened local grassroots efforts to overcome poverty and racial disparities within their communities
What is Neighbor to Neighbor?
Since its inception in 1991, Neighbor to Neighbor has been one of the Seattle Foundation’s longest-standing programs, supporting organizations in South Seattle, White Center, Kent, and SeaTac/Tukwila.
N2N is more than just a grants program; it is a strategy designed to build leadership within communities disproportionately affected by systemic barriers. Through technical assistance, funding, and community-driven decision-making, N2N enhances the capacity of grassroots groups to organize, advocate, and lead change from within.
It’s no coincidence that one of the Foundation’s enduring commitments is in people power — it’s where lasting change begins.
N2N prioritizes efforts that:
- Build leadership among neighbors and community members
- Amplify advocacy through organizing and mobilization
- Expand the engagement and influence of historically marginalized communities
- Provide direct support to initiatives addressing racial and economic disparities
By investing in grassroots efforts, N2N plays a crucial role in creating pathways for local organizations to not only survive but thrive, ultimately leading to a more equitable and vibrant Greater Seattle.
Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle: Preserving History, Inspiring Future Leaders
Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle, one of N2N’s recent grantees, demonstrates how authentic relationship-building can strengthen and sustain legacy communities.
Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle, with support from N2N, is launching Equine Days in the Park at Rainier Beach Community Center—an initiative designed to educate and empower South Seattle youth through equestrian training, historical learning, and leadership development. Rooted in the legacy of the African American cavalry units known as the Buffalo Soldiers, the program acts as a strong violence prevention pathway while fostering cultural pride and community connection.
Participants will engage in hands-on activities like roping, horse care, barrel racing, and anatomy lessons, while also building essential life skills through Social Emotional Learning (SEL). By blending horsemanship with history and mentorship, Equine Days in the Park creates a safe, confidence-building space for youth to grow, lead, and thrive.
Equine Days in the Park is just one example — the reach of Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle goes far beyond a day at the park.
For years, they’ve been a powerful force in South Seattle, offering young people more than just equestrian skills. Think summer camps filled with laughter, community events that build bridges, and countless opportunities to discover hidden talents and leadership potential.
Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle weaves cultural education, mentorship, and community engagement into every aspect of their programming—ensuring that youth not only learn history but see themselves reflected in it. By introducing young people to horsemanship, teamwork, and the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, they provide enriching experiences and powerful alternatives to violence.
More than just equestrian training, their work nurtures confidence, emotional well-being, and pathways to opportunities like scholarships and careers. Through partnerships with schools and youth organizations, and by involving youth in shaping their programs, Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle is making equestrian sports more inclusive and empowering the next generation to lead with pride and purpose.
Why N2N Matters
Real change happens when those closest to the challenges are at the center of the solutions. Buffalo Soldiers of Seattle exemplifies what is possible when philanthropy moves beyond charity and into true partnership, demonstrating the power of community-driven solutions, cultural connection, and youth empowerment. As we celebrate the incredible work of N2N and its grantees, we are reminded that true transformation starts at the community level. This is what it takes to build a joyful region of shared prosperity, belonging, and justice.
To learn more about Neighbor to Neighbor and see the full list of N2N Q1 Grantees, visit:https://www.seattlefoundation.org/nonprofits/neighbor-to-neighbor/
