The West Orange African Heritage Organization

The West Orange African Heritage Organization (WOAHO) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), volunteer organization that promotes the cultural distinction of West Orange residents of African descent. Founded in 1999, we are dedicated to preserving quality of life, promoting academic achievement, and being an advocate for equality and justice.

Our mission is to build and maintain a strong community with emphasis on addressing the issues that face West Orange residents of African heritage. In addition to addressing the many issues facing our community, we strive to promote businesses that are owned and operated by people of our cultural background.

WOAHO serves as an instructive resource by distributing communication and information relevant to our community through our email notices, website and meetings. Monthly networking of local businesses and residents happen at the “First Friday” events, while discussion of current issues and upcoming events occur at the General Meetings.

We also work to provide service that specifically addresses the needs of our community and encourages participation from all West Orange residents. The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast, the Kwanzaa Festival and the Women’s History Celebration bring people together to acknowledge contributions of individuals and groups. The Christmas Toy Drive assures happy holidays for local residents experiencing hardships. We host local political debates and forums to help all residents make informed decisions.

WOAHO supports the academic improvement of our students through the West Orange Tutoring Program which is active in many of the elementary schools after regular hours. The continued education of West Orange African-American students is encouraged through college scholarships distributed each year through our Thomas P. Holcomb Scholarship Fund. Fundraising events like the “Men Who Cook” and other activities provide the means for a group of qualified applicants to have financial support for their college dreams.

Become a member today! Click here to download an application

WOAHO
P.O. Box 495
West Orange, NJ 07052
Email: woahoo@woaho.org

Click here to download our brochure