We're celebrating 32 years!
With the help and support of the Roanoke Valley, we have been able to provide safety and stability to over 2,000 youth in one of Roanoke's most disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Our Programs Work
•93% of our children passed both math and reading state standardized tests last year.
•Our teen pregnancy prevention program boasts a 99.3% success rate.
We proudly serve over 200 children and teens per year, helping each to become a productive citizen of the Roanoke Valley, by keeping him/her focused on positive efforts and smart decision making.
Measurable benefits for YOUR community
•We help children build the assets they need to achieve successful futures.
•Our programs focus on strengthening academic skills, building social skills, and developing healthy bodies
Support Us
There are a number of ways you can help show your support for The West End Center: financial contributions, matching gifts, special events, volunteering, and making an in-kind donation on our wish list. Click here for more details.
The West End Center for Youth offers a variety of programs tailored to assist children and teens in many ways. We provide an After School Program, Educational Services, Family Care, and a Summer Program. Click here for more details.
By creating a positive and nurturing child development community, the West End Center enables local families and children with limited resources to lead more self-determined and enriched lives.
In 1979, poverty, crime and drug trading characterized the West End and Hurt Park neighborhoods in Roanoke. Vacant lots, abandoned buildings and rental property were widespread. At that time, a number of children were wandering the streets without supervision and there was an increase in vandalism. In response to these circumstances, West End Presbyterian Church, West End Methodist Church and the Mountain View Neighborhood Alliance formed a coalition to establish the West End Center as a safe haven for the neighborhood children.
Since that time, the West End Center has experienced tremendous growth, both in the number of children served and the available programs and services. In 1988, the Tutoring Program, now the expanded Educational Services Program, was established. In 1992, the Center moved from a house on 12th Street to 1226 Patterson Avenue. And in 1993, recognizing the key role of parents in their children's lives, the Parents' Program was begun.
In 1996, West End Center purchased a second building that became the Teen Center. At the same time, a Mental Health Program, the current Child and Family Care Program, was established. In 2000 the Center purchased its final building, the former Villa Sorrento. In 2002 a fully equipped computer lab was opened in a portable classroom donated by Roanoke City Schools.
Today, the West End Center serves 200 children each year who live in many of Roanoke's disadvantaged neighborhoods. The goal of the program is to equip children with the developmental assets they need to become productive, responsible adults. In order to accomplish this goal, West End Center offers a comprehensive program.
West End Center's staff, board of directors and corps of volunteers have had the privilege of participating in the growth and development of a number of fine young adults. Some have enrolled their own children in the program. Some have gone on to college. Some have served in the armed forces. Many are pursuing successful careers. A few have even come back to work at the Center.
Each of these successful young people is a testament to the ability of this grassroots, community-based program, working in partnership with loyal supporters, to make a difference in the lives of young people.
Joy Parrish
Executive Director
jparrish_westendcenter.org
Nathan Proutey
Educational Services Director
nproutey_westendcenter.org
Mary Ferrell
6th-7th Group Leader & Parents' Group Coordinator
mferrell_westendcenter.org
Becca Parrish
Office Manager & Development Coordinator
bparrish_westendcenter.org
Danny Britton
Program Director
dbritton_westendcenter.org
Donna Crawley
Reading Teacher
dcrawley_westendcenter.org
Kenny Brown
Blue Group Leader
kbrown_westendcenter.org
Samantha Beard
Red Group Leader
sbeard_westendcenter.org
Tyrone McGhee
Facilities Manager
Blake Travitz , President
Ophthalmic Specialties
Ryland Hubbard , Vice-President
Merrill Lynch
Frankie Robbins , Secretary
Community Volunteer
Matthew Churchill , Treasurer
Wells Fargo
James Creekmore , Past President
Creekmore Law Firm
Pam Banks
Parent Representative
Judy Goodwin
Community Volunteer, Retired, Salem City Schools
James C. Joyce, Jr.
Law Offices of James C. Joyce, Jr.
Linda Mack
Anthem
Walton Rutherfoord , Development Committee Chair
Private Investor
Joe Christenbury
Acorn Construction Company, retired
Tommy Strelka
Strickland, Diviney, and Strelka
Mike McAllister
Cox Communications
Terri Maxey
Ginger Mumpower
Ginger's Jewelry
Arnold Masinter
Benefit Plan Administrtors, President
Children who attend the West End Center contend with a number of challenges that can be barriers to success for them. Some of those challenges are listed below.
86% of the children are living in a home headed by a single parent.
More than 85% of the children live in poverty.
The median income of the families is $15,000.
Many of the children have an identified special need (chronic health needs, mental health needs, special education, ADHD, or multiple needs).
100+ children are currently enrolled.
Children range in age from 5 to 18 years old.
One third of the children are on the A-B honor roll.
93% passed the math state standardized tests. 93% passed reading.
Education and Literacy Campaign
Gifts to this campaign directly fund educational programs that help children build the skills they need to be successful in life including academic and literacy skills, social skills, and fitness skills.
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Endowment Campaign
Gifts to the endowment campaign will ensure that West End Centers programs and services will be sustained over years to come. The intent of the endowment fund is to have a reserve of funds that will meet both present and future needs.
Annual Fund Campaign
A gift to the annual campaign is an unrestricted gift that allows board and staff members to make choices based on current need. Annual gifts can underwrite both educational and recreational activities and fund ongoing operating expenses.
Statement of Intent Form
If you are interested in finaically contributing to the children of the West End Center, please download and fill out our Statement of Intent Form:
PDF: Statement of Intent Form
Please use the following address to mail your form and donations:
West End Center for Youth
1223 Patterson Ave, Southwest
Roanoke, VA 24016
Online Donations
Donations can be made online securely through Click & Pledge.
In meeting the needs of children, West End Center provides a variety of services and opportunities for children and their families. The list below highlights the many after-school activities at West End Center.
Back-to-School Supplies
Through donations from Allstate Insurance's National Support Center and other area businesses, West End Center provides each child enrolled in the fall with a new backpack and school supplies.
The Fitness and Nutrition Program
Children learn to make healthy eating choices and participate in activities to promote lifelong fitness. The Center also provides students with healthy snacks and meals and educates students about making healthy food choices.
Holiday Gift Distribution
Through donations from area businesses, churches and organizations, West End Center provides each child with new clothing and toys for Christmas.
Leadership Program
Children have the opportunity to develop and practice leadership skills so that they will be prepared to become the next generation of community leaders for the Roanoke Valley.
Parents' Group
Parents meet monthly during the school year to share issues concerning their children and to participate in educational programs.
Reading Instruction
Elementary children participate in Reading Adventure, thanks to generous donations from Foundation for Roanoke Valley and Cox Communications.
Recreation
Staff provide children with opportunities to strengthen physical, cognitive and social skills through play.
PeaceBuilders Social Skills Curriculum
Students participate in PeaceBuilders to learn positive social skills and ways to avoid violence. This program is sponsored by The Allstate Foundation.
Technology
Students visit the Computer Lab regularly to increase their computer skills.
For more information, contact Danny Britton at 342-9880 or dbritton_westendcenter.org.
Part of achieving our mission as an after-school program is ensuring that each child receives a good education. The center strives to meet that need through reading instruction, tutoring, advocacy, and summer enrichment.
Tutoring
From September to May, children receive academic support in the form of tutoring four evenings per week at West End Center. Volunteer tutors from throughout the community are matched with children to provide assistance with homework assignments while also working on fundamental math and reading skills.
Tutoring is offered Monday through Thursday:
3:30-4:15
4:15-5:00
5:00-5:45
If you can spare just 1 hour per week to help a child succeed in school, please contact Nathan Proutey at 342-0902 or at nproutey_westendcenter.org!
Progress Reporting
In addition to tutoring, the center provides other educational services. The center develops and maintains close relationships with teachers and school officials to ensure that childrens needs are being met.
Literacy Enrichment Programs
The center also offers literacy enrichment programs. Elementary children receive reading instruction two times per week throughout the school year and each day in the summer.
If helping provide Educational Services interests you, please contact Nathan Proutey at 342-9880 or at nproutey_westendcenter.org.
The West End Center for Youth is proud to announce our Leadership Initiative - Creating the next generation of community leaders for the Roanoke Valley. The role of leadership is critical in meeting emerging and future challenges in the Roanoke Valley. To meet this challenge, WEC is embracing a new leadership development curriculum that identifies important processes, skills, and opportunities that promote leadership in all students at all grade levels.
The program will:
- support the development and practice of leadership skills for each student.
- require students to become informed and active participants in every aspect of their lives.
- embed leadership development in existing instruction within all subject areas.
Children from disadvantaged circumstances, like those who attend West End Center, often require comprehensive services Children from disadvantaged circumstances, like those who attend West End Center, often require comprehensive services to meet their complex needs. West End Centers Child and Family Care program addresses their health needs through counseling and case management.
The circumstances of the childrens lives often create a great need for mental health services, which often goes unmet because of barriers such as stigma and lack of transportation. The presence of Family Service counselors allows mental health needs to be met on site at West End Center. Children can participate in individual and group counseling.
West End Center works in collaboration with Family Service of Roanoke Valley to provide the Child and Family Care Program.
For more information, contact Danny Britton at 342-0902 or dbritton_westendcenter.org.
Studies have shown that one of the most important developmental assets that a child can have is the presence of a supportive and caring non-family adult. If most of us think back, we can remember a scout leader, coach, youth minister, or neighbor who had a significant impact on our lives.
If you are interested in mentoring, please contact Nathan Proutey at 342-0902 or at nproutey_westendcenter.org.
The Summer Program is similar to the After School Program expanded to a day-long format. Children continue to pursue the same activities they engage in during the school year as well as additional ones. They swim twice each week at a city pool. Other field trips are scheduled on a regular basis. Nutrition plays an even greater role during the summer. Since the children depend on free and reduced breakfasts and lunches at school, West End Center provides these meals in the summer, as well as a snack in mid-afternoon.
For more information, contact Danny Britton at 342-0902 or dbritton_westendenter.org.
Spring Bling
Date: Sunday, May 6, 2012
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Location: Hotel Roanoke
Cost: Tickets: $55 adults, $25 children, table: $500
Sponsors & Partners: Ryland Hubbard Merrill Lynch
Champagne Brunch, Fashion Show, and Silent Auction. Thanks to all who made this event
a stunning success in 2011!
Many thanks to our many silent auction contributors as well as our fashion show participants from Bride's House, Davidsons, Kathy's Boutique, Patina, Toadly Kids, and Worth. Fabulous silent auction items just in time for Mother's Day!.
For information call 342-0902 ex. 100 or email bparrish_westendcenter.org.
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5K Spooky Sprint
Date: Saturday, October 29, 2011
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location: South Roanoke Park & Wiley Drive: Roanoke River Greenway
Cost: Pre-registration: $20 adults, $5 children - Day of Registration: $25 adult, $10 children
Website: http://www.5kforkids.com/
The Spooky Sprint event has a 5K race, a 1 mile fun run/walk, and an after race event which includes refreshments for participants, music, an awards ceremony, a kids play area, information tables, and raffle prizes. All participants in the Spooky Sprint event are encouraged to wear their halloween costumes during the event, as there will be a costume contest after the race is over!
Financial Contributions
Contribute financial resources to the West End Center.
Mail donations to PO Box 4562, Roanoke, VA 24015.
Donate securely online through Click and Pledge.
Click here to donate!
Special Events
West End Center hosts several enjoyable activities to raise funds.
Click here to visit our special events page.
Volunteer
There are many opportunities to contribute time at West End Center.
Click here to learn how you can help out!
Wish List
Make an in-kind contribution of material resources.
Click here to download in-kind PDF (Coming soon)
Tutoring is by far the largest volunteer program at the WEC. Four nights per week during the school year, West End Center offers one of the best after school tutoring programs in Roanoke. Volunteer tutors work with students for one hour, usually one night per week. Several of our tutors have been with us for over ten years and have developed close relationships with their students.
Tutors range from college students to working professionals to retired individuals looking to share a lifetime of experiences and knowledge. Our tutor to student ratio is low, rarely exceeding one tutor per two students and is often one on one. Tutors receive thorough training from the West End Centers Director of Educational Services, and staff is always on hand for supervision and assistance if needed.
For many of our kids, tutoring makes the difference between getting the most out of their education and getting lost in the educational system.
3:30-4:15 for grades 4-5
4:15-5:00 for grades K-1
5:00-5:45 for grades 2-3 and middle school
If you can spare just 1 hour per week to help a child succeed in school, please contact Nathan Proutey or nproutey_westendcenter.org!
Mentoring
Mentors provide support to children to help them develop into healthy, responsible adults. Mentors can work with children on-site at West End Center or take them out to enjoy community experiences together.
Club Leaders
Clubs usually meet on a weekly basis to explore and educate a small group of children in a specific area such as chess, choir, science, or art. West End Center is always looking for new club ideas and people who are excited to share their interests. Club leaders should be willing and able to volunteer at the WEC for at least one semester and preferably for one school year.
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Volunteer Application
Interested in volunteering? Please contact us to see what other opportunities are available at the West End Center. You can get started by downloading our volunteer application as well. Click here to download application.
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Grand Home Furnishings' donates to West End Center!
Thank you to The Grand Happiness Foundation for donating new furniture for our facilities, including 5 bookcases, 4 rocking chairs, 2 bean bags, 2 leather sofas, and 40 chairs. As an added bonus, a Grand Santa showed up with a gift for each child. Click here to learn more about why they chose to donate to our organization.
Congressman Goodlatte Visits West End Center!
Click here to view an article from The Roanoke Star-Sentinel detailing Rep. Goodlatte's visit from November 28, 2011.
West End Center Goes Caroling!
Check out a video of some of our kids spreading holiday cheer! We visited 3 assisted living facilities this year, including Pheasant Ridge, Brandon Oaks, and Elm Park Estates.
West End Community Market is open 3:00--6:00p.m. each Tuesday.
West End Community Market, a LEAP market, is located on West End Center's parking lot. All foods are locally grown. Fresh vegetables, prepared foods, plants, and baked good are available each week year round. SNAP benefits are doubled.
Tutoring takes place four nights each week during the school year.
Tutoring is offered Monday through Thursday
If you can spare just 1 hour per week to help a child succeed in school, please contact Nathan Proutey at 342-0902 or nproutey_westendcenter.org!
JOIN US AND VOLUNTEER - (540) 342-0902
MAKE A DONATION - Click & Pledge
