Kenyetta McCurdy-Byrd is the Chief Operating Officer for the WRK Group – The Warehouse, REACH Riverside, and Kingswood Community Center. Read her story as this week’s #PeopleOfWilmDE!
Wilmington Connection
I’ve called Wilmington home for all 52 years of my life, and my roots run deep through every corner of this city. From my early days at St. Peter Cathedral School on West 6th Street to my high school years at St. Elizabeth’s, Wilmington shaped my education and my character.
After earning both my undergraduate and graduate degrees at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, I returned to my beloved hometown to begin my career. Starting as a camp counselor at the Walnut Street Y, I found my calling in community service, which led me to roles at SODAT and eventually to my work with West End Neighborhood House and The WRK Group.
I’ve lived in this city—from Monroe Park Apartments on Pennsylvania Avenue in my childhood, to West 4th Street in my teens, and now in Canby Park, where I’ve made my home for the past 23 years. Every neighborhood, every street corner holds a memory, and I couldn’t imagine calling anywhere else home.
Why do you continue to choose Wilmington to work in/live in?
I continue to choose Wilmington because it feels like home to me. Not only is it a place where I’ve been able to build my career, but it’s also where my roots are. My family is from Wilmington and the nearby area of New Castle, and my church home is here, which gives me a deep sense of connection to this community.
Wilmington offers a wonderful balance of professional opportunity and personal fulfillment. It has a welcoming, tight-knit feel that’s hard to find elsewhere, while also being conveniently located near larger cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore. The city is always growing and evolving, and I love being part of that development—whether it’s seeing new businesses rise or being involved in community efforts that make a difference. Wilmington isn’t just a place where I work; it’s where I’m able to thrive both professionally and personally.
How has being in Wilmington helped you be where you are today, professionally and personally?
Being in Wilmington has been pivotal in shaping my career and personal growth. Professionally, the city’s close-knit business community has allowed me to build meaningful relationships and collaborations that have supported my leadership journey. Wilmington’s strong nonprofit sector and emphasis on social impact align with my values, offering opportunities to lead and contribute to initiatives that truly matter to me. Personally, the city has given me spaces to recharge and find balance, like morning strolls on the Jack Markell Trail, where I can reflect and reconnect with myself.
Favorite Wilmington attraction/event and why:
My favorite Wilmington attraction is the Grand Opera House performances. This historic venue not only brings amazing talent to the city but also highlights the creativity right here in Wilmington. Whether it’s concerts, Broadway shows, or local productions, the Grand adds so much to our community. I love how it blends history and the arts, making every visit feel like a special occasion.
Best place to catch live music:
Wilmington is known for its vibrant music scene. The Grand Opera House stands out to me, offering a range of performances in a historic setting. The Queen is another great spot, known for its intimate concerts across various genres. For outdoor music, places like Rockford Park host seasonal events that add to the city’s lively atmosphere. Wilmington truly has something for every live music enthusiast!
Ideal itinerary for a night out in Wilmington/weekend in Wilmington:
For a night out in Wilmington, I’d start with dinner at Walter’s Steakhouse, an iconic spot known for its classic charm and expertly prepared steaks. From the tender filets to the rich sauces, the high-quality steaks and refined yet cozy atmosphere make it a perfect choice for a special evening. After dinner, I’d head to Del Pez for drinks (and they have amazing wings). With its vibrant atmosphere and Latin American-inspired cocktails, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy creative drinks in a lively setting.
From Del Pez, you can easily walk to Penn Cinema Riverfront, where you can catch the latest blockbuster in a comfortable, modern theater. To close the evening, I’d take a relaxing stroll down the Jack Markell Trail, enjoying the scenic views and peaceful surroundings. Wilmington has so much to offer in terms of food, entertainment, and culture. I always enjoy exploring new spots while revisiting some of my favorites.
What are you excited about that’s going on in Wilmington right now?
I’m excited about the revitalization happening in Riverside, driven by efforts from organizations like REACH Riverside and Kingswood Community Center. The $55 million investment in the Kingswood Community Center will provide state-of-the-art facilities for education and recreation, while the $26 million Chemours STEM Hub at EastSide Charter School is opening up new opportunities for cutting-edge resources and programs that will inspire and equip students for careers in science, technology, engineering and math.
Nearby, NERDiT NOW, an electronic recycling business, is fostering sustainability and job training. The Warehouse, a teen teen center created for teens by teens, is redefining youth engagement through innovative programs, creative mentorship, and resources tailored to their needs. All of these efforts are creating long-term opportunities, strengthening families, and making Wilmington a more connected city.
How would you like to see our city grow in the next year, next 5-10 years?
Looking ahead, I’d love to see Wilmington continue to grow through increased investments in programs that support youth development, provide equitable access to technology, and encourage local entrepreneurship. Expanding affordable housing and prioritizing homelessness prevention and intervention should be key areas of focus.
In the next 5-10 years, I hope to see a stronger focus on economic development and job creation by attracting new businesses and supporting local entrepreneurs. Another important step would be the establishment of a city-wide youth council to give young people a voice in shaping city policies and initiatives.
Most importantly, I hope we continue our efforts to ensure that all citizens—regardless of background—have access to good-paying jobs and quality education. Wilmington has made significant strides, and with continued focus on inclusivity and sustainability, the city has the potential to become a model for equitable growth.
What advice would you like to give people living and working in Wilmington?
My advice to those living and working in Wilmington is simple: get involved and stay connected. There’s so much potential in this city, and every effort—big or small—can make a difference.
Support local businesses, volunteer, or join a community initiative. Wilmington thrives on relationships, so take the time to listen, understand the needs around you, and find ways to contribute. Also, don’t forget to explore and enjoy all the city has to offer. From the revitalization projects in Riverside to the vibrant arts and culture scene, Wilmington is full of opportunities and experiences waiting to be discovered. Being part of its growth is not only rewarding but exciting.
Personal Reflections
What is one of your proudest moments of being a Wilmingtonian?
One of my proudest moments as a Wilmingtonian has been serving as the Chief Operating Officer of REACH Riverside Development Corporation. It’s a privilege to help transform this start-up nonprofit into the WRK Group—an alliance of three organizations: The Warehouse, REACH Riverside, and Kingswood Community Center. Together, we are leading a $600 million holistic revitalization of the Riverside and its surrounding area.
Our work, grounded in the Purpose-Built Communities model, is focused on three key pillars: developing high-quality, mixed-income housing, creating a cradle-to-college-and-career pipeline, and improving community health. As the ‘community quarterback,’ REACH connects resources to empower Riverside residents and foster upward economic mobility. Being part of this transformation in the city I call home is deeply rewarding, and contributing to the future of Wilmington is one of my greatest honors.
Have you done any volunteer work?
I’ve dedicated my career to organizations like West End Neighborhood House and The WRK Group, which champion community development and social impact—principles that deeply resonate with me.
Living with Stargardt disease has deepened my commitment to advocating for accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has access to equitable opportunities. I also volunteer with Greater Hope Christian Fellowship Church, where I support economic development initiatives in Uganda and Kenya. The lessons I’ve learned in Wilmington, particularly in community engagement, have been instrumental in creating sustainable change both locally and globally.
What are 3 interesting or surprising facts about you?
- Living with Stargardt: I have lived with Stargardt disease, a rare genetic eye disorder causing progressive vision loss, for years. But I do not let it slow me down! Instead of focusing on what I can’t do, I channel my energy into empowering others, proving that resilience is a true superpower.
- DART Adventures and City Roots: No school buses for me—I walked or rode DART public transit to both St. Peter Cathedral School and St. Elizabeth High School. Those daily journeys gave me a strong sense of independence and an even deeper bond with my community.
- The Story Behind “Kym”: My nickname, Kym, comes from my initials (Kenyetta Yvette McCurdy) and is exclusively used by my family and neighborhood friends. It’s a badge of connection, reminding me of the relationships and community that have shaped my journey. Some do not even know my first name.
What other stories would you like to share about your life/being a part of our city?
Growing up on 4th Street felt like having the whole city as my playground. I spent endless hours outside playing jacks, hula hooping, roller skating, and dancing to the Fame theme song right on my front steps. I’d walk with friends to Walnut Street Y or head to parties at Prices Park.
The Elsmere Skating Rink was another favorite, and I’ll never forget the excitement of the carnival in front of Mary C. I. Williams School. The ultimate treat was always a slice of strawberry shortcake from Mrs. Winner’s Chicken & Biscuits, one of the first businesses in Adams Four Shopping Center.
And then there were the trips to 7-Eleven for a Slurpee and the famous funnel cakes at St. Anthony’s carnival. After school, the Salvation Army was the go-to spot—especially after grabbing a Chinese apple (aka pomegranate) as a snack. Of course, no memory is complete without the vibrant energy of the Hispanic Parade during Festival Hispano Calle 4, which was a highlight, especially when watching from my steps. Such fond memories.
