Community Corner Initiative

A Vibrant Gathering Space at First & Quail

Once known as one of Albany’s most troubled intersections, the corner of First and Quail Streets has undergone a powerful transformation—from a symbol of neglect to a beacon of possibility. At the heart of this change is the Community Corner, a grassroots project led by Eden’s Rose Foundation, in collaboration with Grateful Villages and driven by the passion of student interns from local colleges and community youth volunteers.

What began with trash bags and determination has bloomed into a safe, welcoming open-air marketplace and community space. With three canopy tents available for free reservation, Community Corner offers neighbors a place to share, sell, or give away locally grown food, handmade goods, art, ideas, and dreams. Whether you’re a gardener, chef, artist, activist, or neighbor with a story to tell, this space is yours.

Why It Matters

Community Corner is more than a market—it’s a movement. It’s a tangible expression of what’s possible when people come together with care, creativity, and a shared vision for equity and renewal. By reimagining this once-overlooked lot, we’re reclaiming space for:

Local economic empowerment
Community storytelling and advocacy
Cultural expression and pride
Safety and beautification

As one student intern put it:

“We’re not just cleaning up a street corner. We’re helping a community see itself differently—and believe in its potential.”

Use the Space

The Community Corner is open dawn to dusk, seven days a week. Anyone can reserve a tent to showcase their work, promote community causes, or simply connect. It’s informal, grassroots, and always evolving—just like the neighborhood itself.

Get Involved

Whether you’re a local resident, an artist, a vendor, a donor, or someone who simply believes in the power of community—you have a place at Community Corner. Donate to support infrastructure, programming, and youth internships, or reach out to reserve a tent, volunteer, or contribute goods.

Together, we’re not just transforming a corner—we’re reclaiming the soul of a city.