Building a stronger community, together.
The West End Neighborhood Organization (WENO) is dedicated to serving our entire community—from children to seniors—with programs and partnerships that enrich everyday life. Our mission is to invest in opportunities that strengthen families, build skills, and foster a thriving neighborhood.
Our Mission
Empowering residents through collaboration, advocacy, and resource access for a stronger, safer, and unified neighborhood.
About Us
Formed in January 2022, WENO began by uniting existing community groups within the nearly one-square-mile West End neighborhood. Today, we continue to grow, connect, and empower residents—working together to meet the expectations, aspirations, and shared vision of our community.
Through our funding, we are building sustainable connections between schools and local businesses to expand apprenticeship programs. These initiatives help residents gain valuable skills that support career growth and family stability.
WENO offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of our community, including:
- Skill development workshops
- Positive parenting seminars and family activities
- Safety and neighborhood beautification efforts
- Scholarships for students
- Health and wellness seminars
- Financial literacy programs
- First-time homebuyer assistance
Officers
President/Chair: DeeDee Wright
Secretary: Yvonne Waiters-Dixon
Treasurer: Verlon Anderson
Office Coordinator: Anansa Lattimore
Our Projects
WENO has proudly collaborated with local organizations and institutions to support community engagement and growth. These efforts include participating in Livingstone College’s Pancakes & Politics series, as well as partnering with Nzuri Doula Services at the Rock-A-Bye Baby Jam, sponsored by Novant Health and Communities In Schools
Sponsored & Spearheaded Programs
WENO has also sponsored and led a variety of impactful programs designed to empower residents of all ages:
Salisbury Housing Commission Information Session – Provided resources to help the community better understand rental agreements, tenants’ rights, and housing contracts.
Adult & Youth Self-Defense Classes – Partnered with KickFit of Salisbury (Rodney Wallace) and Salisbury Parks & Recreation to teach safety and self-protection skills.
It Takes a Village (ITAV) to Achieve Health Equity for All – A signature program designed for the youth and their parents to gain a greater understanding of how social and economic conditions impact health, violence, and opportunity. By fostering understanding and building supportive networks, the program empowers young people to navigate their life journeys with guidance and resilience. Sponsored by Livingstone College, WENO, and Novant Health.
Senior Safety Meeting – In partnership with Gethsemane Baptist Church, this initiative reviewed past incidents, addressed ongoing risks, and implemented safety measures to protect community elders.
Juneteenth Chess Tournament – Sponsored by WENO in partnership with NAACP Salisbury-Rowan and Salisbury Parks & Recreation, this tournament combined celebration, education, and strategy through the game of chess.
Youth Programs at Local Churches – Supporting programs at Reach Church, Gethsemane Baptist Church, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, and P.A.C.T, WENO continues to invest in young people through mentorship and community-building activities.
WENO in the Community
Get Involved as a Volunteer
Volunteering with West End Neighborhood Organization is a meaningful way to give back, share your skills, and make a difference in the community. Whether you can offer a few hours each month or more, your time and talents help us bring our mission to life. Volunteers can support events, assist with programs, provide administrative help, or lend their expertise in specialized areas. Regardless of your background or schedule, there’s always a place for you on our team.