For years, the neighborhood of Westwood has been a vibrant and evolving community, but public perception has not always reflected the reality of its progress. Some have viewed Westwood as a place of division, where organizations struggle to work together. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Over the past year, Westwood Works and WestCURC have forged a collaborative and productive partnership that is reshaping the neighborhood for the better.

The partnership between Westwood Works and WestCURC emerged from discussions of a potential merger, which ultimately led to a shared understanding that working together - not consolidating- was the best path forward. Westwood is Cincinnati's largest neighborhood in both population and land area, making it natural for multiple community development organizations to exist and complement each other. “Coming out of discussion about a potential merger, I believe there was a mutual appreciation and an understanding that we would be moving forward in collaboration, supporting each other’s projects,” said Stephanie Collins, Westwood Works’s Executive Director. “Over the past year, we have co-sponsored projects, created a joint committee, and worked together with other neighborhood organizations and stakeholders to assist with the creation of the new Neighborhood Plan. We have drafted a collaborative MOU to help guide how grant money is distributed to projects, and most importantly, we have communicated with and learned from each other.” Stephanie added. 

One of the key benefits of this collaboration has been the ability to expand the capacity of both organizations. “As they say, many hands make light work. In a neighborhood of 33,000 residents, the work is never light. However, having two dedicated, dedicated, and passionate organizations increases bandwidth to, simply, do more,” Stephanie stated, “We can apply for more grants, host more events, advocate for funding more actively, engage the community more effectively, and ensure projects reach the entire neighborhood.” This increase in capacity has led to a tangible transformation in Westwood’s community development efforts. In 2024 alone, Westwood secured multiple grants, including both minor and major NBDIP awards for projects in the Town Hall Business District and at the intersection of Harrison and McHenry. WestCURC also completed a pocket park near W Bar and Bistro, while Westwood Works managed the installation of a new community mural adjacent to the park. These projects demonstrate the power of collaboration and the direct impact it has on neighborhood revitalization. 

While misconceptions about infighting may still exist, the reality is that Westwood is thriving. The neighborhood is attracting new residents from all over the tristate region, drawn by its rich history, diverse architecture, and welcoming atmosphere. “Westwood has an incredible variety of architectural styles, great walkability in the neighborhood business districts, access to public transportation and close proximity to downtown,” shared Stephanie Collins. “The neighborhood organization and small businesses have worked diligently for decades to create a welcoming, inclusive, and fun neighborhood that celebrates connection.” From free community events at Westwood Town Hall to thriving businesses like Nation Westwood, West Side Brewing, Catch-a-Fire, W Bar & Bistro, Ivory House, and Muse Cafe. Westwood offers a dynamic mix of entertainment, culture, and small business opportunities. 

As Westwood and WestCURC continue to grow their partnership, the focus remains on expanding initiatives that support the community. “Collectively, we aspire to continue the collaborative spirit that we have had over the last two years,” Stephanie Collins added, “We will co-sponsor and share expertise on projects.Westwood Works hopes to focus on revitalizing the Westwood Theatre, using the funds from NBDIP to create an outdoor community dining space adjacent to Fable Cafe, creating other commercial spaces to promote a healthy small business economy, and evaluating housing needs. In addition, we will continue to produce free community events, host community meetings, advocate for resources with local government, and fund neighbor-led mini-grant projects.” WestCURC will continue to focus on its own strategic goals for neighborhood improvement, further solidifying the partnership that has brought so much success over the past year. 

Westwood’s transformation is a testament to what can happen when organizations work together toward a common goal. Whether you’re a longtime resident, newcomer, or someone considering investing in the community, now is the time to get involved. Attend a neighborhood event, support local businesses, or participate in one of the many initiatives shaping the future of Westwood. Westwood is not a neighborhood divided–it is a neighborhood united, growing and thriving. And this is just the beginning.