Host a Block Party with support from the Bither Good Neighbor Fund!
Through the generosity of Steve Bither Good Neighbor Fund the Friends of Woodfords Corner is thrilled to offer financial support for neighbors to close their street to car traffic and host a block party. Friends of Woodfords Corner can help hosts complete the permit application and provide up to $250 to cover the permit fee and help pay for additional supplies for block parties that are fun for kids. Email blockparty@woodfordscorner.org if you need help getting started.
Steve Bither, who passed away in March 2025, was dedicated to building community. A native of Portland, and graduate of Deering High School, Steve worked as a cab driver, schoolteacher, country and western disc jockey, and radio talk show host before attending the University of Maine Law School at the age of 40 so he could “grow up and make a difference.” Steve volunteered with a wide range of community organizations and was long-time member of The Woodford’s Club but is best known for his role in the Wicked Good Band. He served for more than 50 years as the band’s pianist, vocalist, songwriter, arranger, business manager, and van driver. As humorist Tim Sample said at his memorial service, “he will be missed, but he always will be celebrated.” He left money to the neighbors to host ongoing neighborhood block parties.
Guidelines:
Block Party must be in Woodfords Corner neighborhoods (see right)
Focus on meeting neighbors and be appropriate for all ages
You must have two or more hosts
Must be held by November 1st
You must invite the neighbors on your street
Must get city permit from city to close the block
Funds cannot be used for alcohol or cannabis
If you are interested in hosting a block party, start by visiting the City of Portland’s Host a Block Party web page, which has links to the permit application and a form to reserve a free block party kit that includes cornhole, kids hula hoops, ring toss, big Jenga, sidewalk chalk, name tags, bubbles, and City of Portland purple trash bags.
Then contact Eric at blockparty@woodfordscorner.org and we’d be thrilled to help you fund your neigbhoring event! We’ve got sample posters you can use and a variety of games and ideas to help make it fun for your ‘hood.
