A Gathering of Radical Love for Our Community and Vision for Our Future
Every year, WSCO’s Annual Meeting is a time for our community to come together, reflect on the work of the past year, and envision what’s ahead for the West Side. It’s where neighbors, business owners, teachers, faith leaders, and community builders of every kind gather to celebrate our shared accomplishments and honor those who make them possible. This year, we felt it was especially fitting to frame our gathering as A Love Letter to the West Side: a celebration of the people, places, and dreams that make our neighborhood home.
This year’s Annual Meeting will also feature a collective art activity, inspiring guest speakers, coffee and pastries, and plenty of opportunities to connect with the people and stories that make the West Side so special. You can find more details about the event and RSVP here.
This gathering is not just about reflection—it’s about lifting one another up.
Nominate West Side Leaders, Businesses, and Board Members!
West Sider of the Year
Each year, WSCO Board of Directors honors a West Side resident whose spirit and dedication reflect the best of our community. The West Sider of the Year award celebrates those who:
⏵ Volunteers their time, talents, and resources to benefit the West Side community
⏵ Promotes justice and equity in their daily life
⏵ Acts with a neighborly spirit and goes out of their way connect with others
The 2025 West Sider of the Year is nominated by community members and will be announced at WSCO’s Annual Meeting on Nov 1.
Please note: past recipients, current WSCO staff, and board members are not eligible. The award is given to an individual, not a business or organization.
West Side Business of the Year
New this year, the WSCO Board of Directors will also recognize a local business whose commitment to community reflects the heart of the West Side. More than just a place of business, this institution reflects the mission of WSCO by building collective power, advancing justice, and promoting equity for all people in our community. Through their leadership, dedication, and pride in our community, they show what it truly means to be West Side Strong.
The “West Side Business of the Year” celebrates establishments that:
⏵ Uplift the West Side by aligning its work with family and community values
⏵ Invests in community well-being through charitable initiatives and partnerships with other neighborhood institutions
⏵ Creates opportunities for connection and growth through mentorship, employment, and community engagement
The 2025 West Side Business of the Year is nominated by community members and will be announced at WSCO’s Annual Meeting on Nov 1.
Board of Directors Nominations
Another way to honor our love for the West Side is by helping lead its future. There are 4 open seats for WSCO’s Board of Directors beginning in 2026. If you know a neighbor who is innovative, passionate, and ready to serve our community, nominate them today! Feeling called yourself? Don’t wait for someone else to notice! Nominate yourself and step into leadership.
A WSCO Board Member:
⏵ Attends monthly board meetings consistently and makes time to participate in WSCO campaign gatherings and events when possible
⏵ Brings creative ideas and thoughtful input on how to strengthen our community
⏵ Demonstrates natural leadership by listening and collaborating with respect and integrity
Nominations will be accepted through Nov 1! WSCO Board Members are self or community nominated, and then elected by attendees of WSCO’s Annual Meeting on Nov 1.