F.A.Q. - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the West Orange African Heritage Organization (WOAHO)?
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Founded in 1999, WOAHO is a non-profit 501c3 organization that promotes the cultural distinction of West Orange residents of African descent. WOAHO is a volunteer organization dedicated to promoting academic student achievement, raising awareness of African Heritage culture and tradition and advocating for equity and justice
Who were the founders of WOAHO and why was it formed?
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WOAHO was founded in 1999 by a group of people of African descent with the vision of an organization that would have as its focal points 1) promoting and increasing the involvement of residents of African descent in their town and communities; 2) To promote a richer sense of community 3) broadening the scope regarding issues concerning their community and 4) insuring residents of African descent were given equitable opportunities to excel in their classrooms, businesses and professional fields and their communities
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How does it achieve its mission?
Through Organizational Initiatives: Food Drive School Supply Drive Toy Drive Through our committees: Membership Scholarship Tutoring Through our events and activities: Kwanzaa Celebration "Men Who Cook" Fundraiser Black History Month Celebration Women's History Month Juneteenth First Friday mixers Meet-up groups Participating in township-related events/programming
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When does WOAHO meet?
General Membership Meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of March, June, September and December from 7:00 - 8:30 pm .Location to be determined. -
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Who are the members of this organization?
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They are residents and businesses of WO and surrounding communities from all walks of life who are active in the community and are committed to enriching the quality of the lives of people in West Orange.
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What are the benefits of becoming a member?
The general membership provides opportunities for networking, building relationships with people in the community and participating in alliances that advocate for educational excellence, economic opportunity and equity in governance issues. A business membership provides advertising and marketing opportunities within the community, including website listings and business spotlights at First Fridays and other WOAHO sponsored events. Business membership contributes to the overall economic health of WO and surrounding communities, which translates to more sustainable businesses.
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How do I become a member?
Joining can be done by one of the following: filling out an application and paying on-line at the "Membership & Renewals" tab; downloading an enrollment form from our website and sending the application and check to the address: PO Box 495, WO, NJ 07052; filling out an application in person and paying for membership at a WOAHO event.
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Who are the elected officers/ members of the Board of the organization?
President- Althia Tweiten, Vice President - Linda Robinson, Treasurer - Cathy Sutherland, Secretary - Yvonne Nambe-Roach, Financial Secretary - Robert Simmons, Parliamentarian -Kathy Lisenco, Sergeant-At-Arms - Doris Moses
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Who are the various committee chairs in WOAHO?
Scholarship - Deborah Harvest, Membership - Deborah Robinson, Men Who Cook, Senior Advocate - Rosary Morelli, Technology - Co-chairs, Carol Black-Lemon and Cynthia Hadley-Bailey