Kenny Barrett is a creative placemaking leader responsible for shaping and advancing initiatives that transform underutilized spaces into vibrant hubs of community, culture, and sustainability. He leads with a hands-on, collaborative approach—guiding strategy, operations, partnerships, and programming to build ecosystems where people, ideas, and local economies can thrive.

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Kenny cares deeply about the role creativity plays in bringing people together and expanding opportunity. Growing up in Phoenix and working across diverse communities, he saw firsthand how access to shared spaces, food systems, and cultural programming can shift how people connect to one another and to place. This perspective continues to inform his work—creating environments that are inclusive, participatory, and rooted in local identity.

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Most recently, Kenny served as Executive Director of Growhouse Urban Agriculture Center, where he transformed vacant city land into community gardens, education programs, and public art spaces that engaged thousands of residents each year. He also co-founded Phoenix General Store, growing it into an award-winning retail and lifestyle brand that supports local makers and fosters community through thoughtfully curated products and events. Previously, as Acting Executive Director of Roosevelt Row Community Development Corporation, he helped lead the revitalization of downtown Phoenix’s arts district—producing large-scale public programs and launching initiatives that activated underused spaces and supported small businesses and artists.

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Across his work, Kenny focuses on building strong partnerships between community members, nonprofits, businesses, and public agencies to create lasting impact. His experience spans nonprofit leadership, urban revitalization, brand development, and public programming, with a consistent emphasis on accessibility, sustainability, and shared ownership.

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Kenny holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Advertising Management from Arizona State University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Nonprofit Leadership and Management. Now based in New York City, he continues to explore how creativity, collaboration, and community-driven design can shape more connected and resilient places.