Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Time: 6:30-10:00pm
Venue: White Oak Music Hall – 2915 North Main Street
Website: www.avenuecdc.org/buildup25
TICKETS: $75 | $150 - Sponsorships start at $1,000
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OPENING DOORS • CREATING HOMES • BUILDING FUTURES
This year, Avenue is debuting our new fundraiser, the Build Up Bash! We're embracing the spirit of and putting a Houston twist on the historic Harlem Rent Parties, where neighbors came together to keep each other going through rhythm, revelry and radical generosity.
Guests can expect a night with delicious food, stories from Avenue residents and zydeco rhythms from Step Rideau & The Zydeco Outlaws. In addition to an exciting program and great music, this event will also include a silent auction and treasure chest raffle featuring unique items and experiences to both showcase local business and raise funds, so we can serve more of our neighbors and keep our programs going for years to come.
Funds raised at this event help keep rent affordable for our tenants and provide education for those who wish to move from renting into homeownership. In addition, we are launching an Emergency Rental Fund to help residents stay in their homes during a time of financial crisis, reducing the stress so they can focus on what matters.
Join us in supporting the need for people in our own neighborhoods to keep a roof over their heads, give their children a more secure environment and build communities that care for each other and the future.
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WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Experience our mission through stories from Avenue's residents, community members and homebuyers.
• Enjoy delicious food and drinks
• Dance to Gulf Coast rhythms from Step Rideau & The Zydeco Outlaws!
• Don't miss our silent auction and treasure chest raffle
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WHAT IS A RENT PARTY?
Originating in Harlem in the early 20th century, rent parties were a way for tenants to raise money to pay their rent. The African American community often paid about 50% higher rent while earning lower wages and many struggled to make ends meet each month.
To make up the difference, friends, neighbors and even strangers would be invited to someone's home for an evening filled with music, dancing and food. In exchange for a small donation, guests gained entry to the party, contributing to the host's rent fund.
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