Community Organizing
United Neighbors is a collaboration between community members and local organizations, who work to organize a collective celebration of the communities bordering I-95, emphasizing their unique experiences and the highway’s history, as well as hopes for the future of the bridge and community. As renovations to the I-95 corridor were to commence in 2020, it was essential to bring attention to the communities, who were most impacted by the initial construction of I-95 in 1956, and the residents, who will be affected by the impending renovations. By closing down the 7th St Bridge (between Adams & Jackson Streets), the West Side and West Center City Communities literally bridged the gap I-95 had created. Over three days, more than 500 people gathered on the bridge for activities, art, food, celebration, conversation, and more. This event was possible with the support of Christiana Care, Delaware Division of the Arts, Councilman Va’Shun Turner of the 5th District, and the City of Wilmington. By bringing together the residents of the West Side and West Center City on both sides of I-95, we aim to build community pride, and through featuring various local vendors, promote local businesses/organizations.
Civic Associations
Cool Spring Tilton Neighborhood Association
Westside Neighborhood Coalition
Westside Community Action Coalition
5th District Neighborhood Planning Council
8th District Neighborhood Planning Council
4th Street Civic Association
Community Clean Ups
Throughout the year, West Side Grows Together organizes community Clean-Up events in order to connect with our neighbors and improve our shared space.
4th Street Visionaries
4th Street Visionaries aims to bring forth the vision of a safe and prosperous community that thrives on our own resources along 4th Street on the West Side of Wilmington. This community organizing group is comprised of the 4th Street Civic Association, The Block Academy Program and other public safety efforts. For more information click here.
West Side Grows Together in partnership with the Wilmington Peacekeepers host annually the Peace March and Community Celebration. As Martin Luther King Jr. empowered people through his voice, this event serves as a sounding board for the community to let their voices be heard. The march recognizes significant landmarks along the corridors of the West Side. Local humanity leaders will lead the celebration where speakers, community resources, and artists come together for peace.
Peter Spencer Family Life Foundation sponsors the Freedom School. This program is a literacy program that works with children to help with their reading comprehension and teaches that they can make a difference in their community.