How to Invest in Our Community—and Unlock What’s Truly Possible in East Wheeling

In every city, there’s a neighborhood like East Wheeling—full of soul, scarred by history, rich with potential. You don’t have to be a millionaire or a city official to invest in it. You just need vision, heart, and strategy. Whether you’re a resident, a local entrepreneur, or someone who simply wants to see the place thrive, understanding how to invest in your community can turn neglected streets into spaces of opportunity.

This is more than gentrification or charity. It’s community-building, legacy-making, and economic empowerment. Here’s how we can begin.

POTENTIAL INVESTMENT PROPERTY

1. Understand What Your Community Needs and Already Has

Before investing anything—time, money, or resources—take inventory. What’s working? What’s not? What are the people asking for?

In East Wheeling, for example, the Neighborhood Assessment Matrix gave us a snapshot:

• Historical Value (8/10): We have legacy—old buildings, cultural roots, and stories worth preserving.

• Infrastructure (5/10): Roads, buildings, and utilities need upgrading.

• Community Assets (7/10): Parks, nonprofits, and creative energy are in place but underutilized.

• Zoning Flexibility (6/10): We can build—but must advocate for more flexibility.

Lesson: Investment isn’t just about what’s missing—it’s about building on what’s already here.

2. Start Small, Think Big

You don’t need to buy a block to make a difference. Host a clean-up day. Sponsor a local artist. Start a pop-up garden. Every action plants a seed.

But think long-term. What happens when 50 small efforts turn into a co-op, a new business corridor, or a cultural center? Community investment compounds.

3. Invest in People, Not Just Property

Buildings matter. But people make the place.

• Hire local.

• Train local.

• Partner with grassroots organizations.

By investing in skills, leadership, and support networks, we uplift the community from the inside out—not by replacing its people, but by resourcing them.

4. Use Tools That Already Exist

Community revitalization isn’t new. Leverage the tools:

• Historic tax credits for rehab projects

• Grant funding for arts, youth programs, and beautification

• Zoning incentives for mixed-use development and affordable housing

• Public-private partnerships that turn ideas into capital-backed projects

Example: In East Wheeling, underused historic buildings can qualify for state and federal funding to become cafes, galleries, or housing—without erasing their soul.

5. Collaborate for a Shared Vision

Nothing sustainable is done solo. Real investment requires collaboration:

• Residents

• City leaders

• Investors

• Nonprofits

• Local schools

• Artists

• Faith-based organizations

Create a shared roadmap. Define what revitalization means for your community—so it uplifts, not displaces.

6. Think Beyond the Physical—Create Culture

A thriving community isn’t just buildings and business. It’s vibe. It’s belonging. It’s pride.

• Host block parties

• Celebrate local legends

• Support youth arts

• Build storytelling into every space

Culture builds community cohesion—and that’s what keeps neighborhoods strong when challenges come.

Conclusion: It’s All Possible, But It Starts With Us

East Wheeling is more than a place—it’s a possibility. It’s a story waiting for the next chapter. Investment isn’t about saving a place—it’s about believing in it enough to build.

So whether you paint a mural, fund a business, clean up a park, or fight for zoning reform—you're investing.

You’re saying: We belong here. We see the future. And we’re building it together.

Want to get involved with East Wheeling’s transformation?

Follow @EastWheelingCooperative or contact us to learn how you can take part, partner, or lead a project.