Forty, Funny, and Full of Love Celebrating Deaunte Damper

On May 10th, we came together for a night that was equal parts meaningful, hilarious, and unforgettable as we celebrated Deaunte Damper’s 40th birthday with a Birthday Party and Roast that truly reflected who he is to all of us at BUILD and beyond. From the moment the evening began, it was clear that this was more than a birthday celebration. It was a tribute to Deaunte’s years of service, leadership, and commitment to our organization and the community we serve.

As we looked around the room, we were surrounded by friends, family, colleagues, and peers who have walked alongside Deaunte through different seasons of life. Each person brought their own stories, memories, and perspective, and together they painted a full picture of a man who leads with passion, humor, and heart. The roast portion of the evening was filled with laughter as speaker after speaker shared hilarious stories about their personal connections to Deaunte. From playful jokes about his habits to stories that highlighted his larger than life personality, the room was constantly filled with laughter and applause.

What made the night especially powerful was the balance between humor and appreciation. While the jokes kept us laughing, there were also moments of reflection that reminded everyone just how much Deaunte has poured into BUILD. We took time to acknowledge his dedication, his vision, and the countless ways he has helped shape our work and culture. It was clear that his impact reaches far beyond his title, touching lives in ways that are both seen and unseen.

After the formal celebration concluded, the energy carried us to the Royal Esquire Club for the after party. There, the festivities continued as we danced, connected, and celebrated late into the evening. The after party felt like the perfect ending to a night built on joy, community, and shared history. It gave everyone a chance to relax, let loose, and celebrate Deaunte in a way that matched his vibrant spirit.

As we reflect on the night, we are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate one of our own in such a meaningful way. Deaunte’s 40th birthday was not just a milestone for him, but a reminder of the power of community, laughter, and gratitude. We are thankful for his continued service to BUILD and honored to stand alongside him as he enters this next chapter.

A big thank you to our partners at Acts on Stage and the Royal Esquire Club for their participation in making this a memorable event.