Loving Neighbors, Strengthening Community

The Enduring Legacy of Service: Blackbird Community Commons

By: Sheri Stanfor and Brittany Solis

In the vibrant, resilient fabric of Asbury Park, New Jersey, a beacon of community spirit shines brightly on the West Side: Blackbird Community Commons. More than just a physical space, it embodies the enduring legacy of three remarkable women – Rosa, Carmen, and Marta – whose journey from Puerto Rico to the Garden State laid the foundation for generations of community advocacy and entrepreneurial zeal. Their story is not just one of immigration and adaptation, but a testament to the power of women dedicated to the cultural, political, and social uplift of their adopted home.

Rosa, Carmen, and Marta, after setting down roots first in New York and later in New Jersey, became pillars of their community. They were more than just entrepreneurs carving out a living; they were fervent believers in collective progress, tirelessly working to empower those around them. Their homes became hubs of conversation, organizing, and support — reflecting a deep-seated commitment to the well-being of their neighbors.

Just to give some background — the idea for Blackbird actually originated at a family-owned restaurant called Mofongo, run by the three sisters on Adams Street. The restaurant wasn’t just a place to eat — it was a gathering spot where the community felt seen, welcomed, and heard. Their involvement in the West Side was impactful and heartfelt, creating a sense of belonging that stayed with everyone who walked through their doors.

After the tragic loss of Rosa — the youngest sister — to breast cancer, her son, Efrain “Frankie” Solis, was moved to honor the women who shaped his life and community. Inspired to carry on their legacy of love, service, and togetherness, Frankie built the Blackbird building at 131 Atkins Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ, in their memory. More than brick and mortar, the building stands as a monument to their spirit — a space where their values would continue to bloom and thrive.
This spirit of service was not confined to their generation. It permeated their family, deeply influencing their offspring — most notably Frankie and his daughter Britney Solis, the driving forces behind Blackbird Community Commons.

Frankie and Britney inherited not just business acumen but a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of community. In establishing Blackbird Community Commons in the heart of the West Side, they consciously chose to create a space that echoed the values instilled by their matriarchs. Their vision extends far beyond commerce; it is deeply rooted in fostering connection, celebrating culture, and providing vital support to their neighbors.

This commitment is evident in their active collaborations with local organizations. Their partnership with the Asbury Park African-American Music Project underscores their dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich musical heritage of the city’s African-American community. Blackbird Community Commons has become a vital partner in this endeavor, hosting events and providing a platform to ensure these invaluable cultural contributions are not forgotten.

Furthermore, Frankie and Britney have been instrumental in the resounding success of the Asbury Park House Music Festival. This widely recognized annual event — a testament to the city’s diverse and vibrant cultural scene — has found a steadfast ally in Blackbird Community Commons. Their involvement highlights their understanding of the power of music and celebration to unite people and foster a sense of collective identity.

However, the role of Blackbird Community Commons extends beyond cultural enrichment. In times of profound sorrow, it has served as a sanctuary for the community. The tragic loss of two young men to gun violence deeply impacted two neighborhoods, and in the immediate aftermath, Frankie and Britney opened their doors to host the repasts. In those moments of raw grief, Blackbird Community Commons became a space for healing, remembrance, and mutual support. Their actions spoke volumes about their commitment to being a true anchor for their community, offering solace and fostering resilience in the face of unimaginable pain. Their hope is that the space can continue to be a catalyst for recovery — a place where the community can collectively heal and find strength.

A cornerstone of Blackbird Community Commons’ mission is its unwavering focus on the youth. Frankie and Britney understand that investing in young people is not just a moral imperative but a crucial step in building a stronger, more vibrant future for Asbury Park. Their dedication stems from a deep understanding of the multifaceted benefits that community engagement offers young individuals.

They see Blackbird Community Commons as a vital hub for these youth-focused initiatives — a place where young people feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. By providing resources, fostering positive relationships, and creating opportunities for growth, they are actively investing in the next generation of Asbury Park leaders and contributing to the long-term vitality of their community.

The story of Blackbird Community Commons is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of a single generation’s commitment to service. The energy and dedication that Rosa, Carmen, and Marta poured into their community decades ago continue to ripple through Asbury Park today. Their entrepreneurial spirit, intertwined with a deep-seated desire for collective uplift, laid the groundwork for a legacy that Frankie and Britney Solis have embraced and expanded upon.

Blackbird Community Commons stands as a vibrant embodiment of their vision — a space where culture is celebrated, support is offered in times of need, and the potential of the youth is nurtured. It is a full-circle narrative, demonstrating how the selfless dedication of three women has blossomed into a vital community cornerstone — a true heartbeat of the West Side of Asbury Park.

At the center of it all lies their guiding principle — the organization’s motto:

“Loving Our Neighbors, Strengthening Our Community.”

To them, this isn’t just a slogan. It’s a lifelong commitment — a declaration that Blackbird Community Commons is here not only to serve, but to uplift, inspire, and unite.