The Gifford Foundation began its involvement in the Near Westside neighborhood of Syracuse in 2006 while working with the Central New York Community Foundation to assess neighborhood issues. Efforts continued through 2007 with Gifford’s assistance in the establishment of the Near West Side Initiative, Inc., a collaborative network of community organizations, institutions and businesses operating as a community development corporation (CDC). The Initiative combines projects aimed at revitalizing neighborhood structures with resident involvement, intending to build upon and create new opportunities and support for the area’s residents, schools, artists and cultural organizations.

Also in 2007, the Foundation awarded a total of $15,000 to a public art project involving the Near Westside community youth from five agencies to decorate park benches. Shortly after, the Near Westside Arts Council was created to implement similar neighborhood art projects and events, and to more effectively involve and collaborate with community artists. The Council is made up of neighborhood residents and community agency representatives.

In February of 2008, the Gifford Foundation began to convene community residents to provide the neighborhood with information, foster collaboration and ensure that residents’ voices are heard regarding the Near West Side Initiative – and beyond. Since the first resident meeting there has been a steady growth in attendance and community participation.

Several committees have emerged from these neighborhood meetings:

• Senior Committee
• Youth Committee
• Green Space Committee
• Housing Committee
• Safety Committee
• Employment Committee
• Arts Committee

All residents and community organizations of the Near Westside and are invited to attend monthly meetings which take place on the last Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Boys & Girls Club at 201 Shonnard Street. For more information please contact Sheena Solomon at (315) 474-2489.