For Rodrick Collier, becoming a homeowner through Westside Future Fund’s Home on the Westside program is more than a milestone—it’s a transformative experience rooted in legacy, location, and love for community.

A firefighter by profession and community advocate at heart, Rodrick has deep ties to Atlanta’s Westside. In fact, he once served this very neighborhood through his work in public safety. Today, he’s proud to call it home.

“This is probably the most convenient home I’ve had,” Rodrick says. “I’m less than a half mile from the BeltLine, close to groceries, close to everything. I really like being right here.”

But for Rodrick, the true value of homeownership lies beyond convenience. Having grown up in apartments and rental homes, he never had the chance to witness homeownership firsthand—or learn the financial lessons that come with it. Now, he’s changing that narrative for his own son.

“For him to experience being in a home with his father—where we can talk about financial freedom, talk about the process, and talk about the legacy of family—it’s a great tool,” he says. “I didn’t have that. But now he does.”

Rodrick’s story is a powerful reflection of what Home on the Westside is all about: creating pathways to stability and generational progress for families with deep roots in Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods.

Through investments and partnerships, Westside Future Fund is helping longtime residents like Rodrick not only remain in the communities they love—but thrive in them.

“It kinda feels like this neighborhood was left out of the movement of financial freedom,” he says. “Now, they’re putting back into the community—and it’s a really great feeling.”

Home on the Westside: Building Stability, One Family at a Time

Westside Future Fund’s Home on the Westside initiative supports individuals with live, work, and learn connections to the Westside through:

• Homeownership opportunities for mortgage-ready buyers
• High-Quality Rentals at affordable rates
• Property Tax Assistance through the Anti-Displacement Tax Fund

These programs are designed to ensure that legacy residents and community heroes like Rodrick Collier can plant roots, build wealth, and create lasting change.

Join the Movement

Westside Future Fund’s mission is made possible by the generosity of our philanthropic partners and community supporters. Join Our Next Chapter, our capital fundraising campaign to accelerate the creation of affordable housing across Atlanta’s historic Westside.

Be part of the change today.

Atlanta’s historic Westside is a living testament to the city’s rich past and enduring legacy. Throughout the community, streets and landmarks tell the stories of trailblazing leaders whose contributions shaped Atlanta—and the nation.

In honor of Black History Month, we are launching a blog series exploring the namesakes of four significant streets that run through the historic Westside. This edition highlights Cameron M. Alexander Boulevard, a key corridor in the heart of English Avenue that stands as a tribute to a man devoted to faith, service, and community empowerment. Formerly known as Kennedy Street, it was renamed in 2010 to honor Reverend Cameron Madison Alexander, a towering figure in Atlanta’s religious and civic life.

A Life of Leadership and Service

Born in Atlanta on February 12, 1932, Cameron M. Alexander was an accomplished student-athlete and musician, he played football, ran track, and performed on the saxophone. His love of history guided him academically, providing a foundation for the ministry that would define his life’s work. In 1948, he graduated from Booker T. Washington High School.

After high school, Alexander attended Florida A&M University, where he was a member of the renowned Marching 100 band. He later served in the U.S. Air Force before continuing his education at Morehouse College, where he studied under the mentorship of the legendary Dr. Benjamin E. Mays. He earned his Master of Divinity degree from the Morehouse School of Religion and went on to hold leadership positions in multiple institutions, including the Morehouse School of Religion and the Morehouse School of Medicine.

The Pastor Who Transformed a Community

Rev. Alexander’s journey in ministry began in Cartersville, Georgia, and took him to Macon and Savannah, where he became known not only as a spiritual leader but also as a civil rights advocate. In Macon, he played a key role in desegregating city buses, lunch counters, and even Mercer University. In Savannah, he partnered with financial institutions to revitalize entire neighborhoods, demonstrating his belief that the church must be active in uplifting communities.

In 1969, while visiting Antioch Baptist Church North as a guest preacher, Rev. Alexander delivered a sermon so powerful that the congregation voted the very next day to call him as their pastor. Over the next 49 years, he led Antioch with a vision that extended far beyond the pulpit. Under his leadership, the church became a beacon of hope, offering housing assistance, education programs, job training, and international missionary work. He trained, licensed, and ordained more than 600 ministers, 150 of whom went on to pastor their own churches.

For nearly five decades, Rev. Alexander led Antioch Baptist Church North, transforming it from a modest congregation into a thriving institution with over 14,000 members and more than 75 ministries. His influence extended far beyond the church walls, shaping the English Avenue community and inspiring people across Atlanta and beyond.

A Street Named for a Servant Leader

Rev. Alexander’s deep commitment to English Avenue and the surrounding Westside community was unwavering. He firmly believed that Antioch Baptist Church North should remain in the city, where it could have the greatest impact on those in need. His leadership went beyond his congregation—he was an advocate for affordable housing, economic development, and social justice.

Rev. Alexander’s influence reached far beyond Atlanta. He served as President of the General Missionary Baptist Convention of Georgia for 29 years, led international humanitarian efforts in Haiti, South Africa, and Brazil, and was honored by institutions such as the Atlanta Business League and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. His sermons and speeches have been preserved in the Library of Congress, ensuring that his voice will continue to inspire future generations.

In 2010, in recognition of his contributions, the City of Atlanta renamed Kennedy Street as Cameron M. Alexander Boulevard. The street, which runs through English Avenue, serves as a lasting tribute to his dedication to the neighborhood. English Avenue, historically significant but long impacted by disinvestment, is now the focus of revitalization efforts, and the boulevard bearing Rev. Alexander’s name stands as a symbol of resilience and faith in the community’s future.

Westside Future Fund’s Work on the Boulevard 

When you walk or drive down Cameron M. Alexander Boulevard, you are traveling along a road that represents more than just a name—it embodies a legacy of service, faith, and transformation. His work and vision live on, not just in the street that bears his name, but in the community he uplifted and the countless lives he touched.

As Westside Future Fund (WFF) continues its transformational work across Atlanta’s historic Westside, the intersection of Cameron M. Alexander Boulevard and James P. Brawley Drive has been a focal point for restoration efforts.

At this corner stands the Yellow Store—once a bustling commercial hub, later overshadowed by disinvestment, gang violence, and the local drug trade. Since acquiring the property in 2019, WFF has eliminated illicit activity and plans to restore the building as a mixed-use space, offering both residential and commercial opportunities to serve the community.

Diagonally across the street, St. Marks AME Church is undergoing its own transformation. Led by Pastor Winston Taylor, this restoration project is revitalizing the church as a gathering space for local residents and community events—preserving both the structure and the cultural identity of the corridor.

Just east of the intersection, a row of high-quality, affordable single-family homes now stands, made possible by the Atlanta Police Foundation’s (APF) Secure Neighborhoods Initiative. In collaboration with Pulte Homes and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, APF aimed to strengthen relationships between communities and the officers who serve them. WFF partnered with APF to identify legacy residents for the homes, which also provide housing for select Atlanta Police Department officers.

Across the street, the @Promise Center serves as a vital resource for Westside youth, offering mentorship, education, and support to empower the next generation.

With each of these efforts, WFF is advancing its mission to restore and revitalize the historic Westside—ensuring its neighborhoods remain vibrant, safe, and full of opportunity—while keeping the legacy of Cameron M. Alexander and other historic community leaders at the heart of the work.

The February 21 Transform Westside Summit, held at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, brought together community leaders, residents and partners to reflect on the progress made in affordable housing in Atlanta. The Summit featured a dynamic conversation with Terri Lee, President and CEO of Atlanta Housing and John Ahmann, President and CEO of Westside Future Fund (WFF), as we celebrated Lee’s first year leading Atlanta Housing and explored the current state and future of housing in the City of Atlanta.

Ahmann opened the Summit by highlighting WFF’s commitment to transforming the Historic Westside neighborhoods, ensuring both legacy residents and newcomers can thrive. He introduced Derrick Jordan, a Westside resident, who shared his personal connection to Terri Lee. Rev. Sean Smith, New Horizon Baptist Church Pastor, led the devotion.

Key Highlights From the Discussion

“Affordable housing is not just about buildings; it’s about people, partnerships, and a shared vision for a future where every family has the stability they deserve.” – Terri Lee

Leadership in Affordable Housing
Lee shared her journey in leading Atlanta Housing, focusing on the collaborative efforts needed to address the city’s housing challenges. She spoke about the importance of building a strong team and forging partnerships with community organizations like WFF to create a unified approach to affordable housing.

Progress in 2024
Lee highlighted Atlanta Housing’s significant strides over the past year. Key achievements included the development of new housing units, the revitalization of long-standing public housing sites and efforts to streamline the housing application process. The organization’s goal was not only to build new housing but also to preserve neighborhood character and reduce displacement.

Future Plans for Atlanta Housing
Looking forward, Lee emphasized Atlanta Housing’s focus on long-term affordability. The organization plans to develop new mixed-income communities that integrate both market-rate and affordable housing, ensuring residents of all income levels can find stable housing. Additionally, community engagement will be prioritized, making sure that redevelopment efforts meet the needs of residents and respect the integrity of the neighborhoods.

“The future of Atlanta Housing is about more than just new developments—it’s about ensuring affordability, community engagement, and respect for the neighborhoods we serve.” – Terri Lee

Collaborative Impact with WFF
Lee and Ahmann discussed the importance of partnerships in achieving their shared housing goals. Joint initiatives between Atlanta Housing and WFF have been crucial in advancing development projects in English Avenue and Vine City, with both organizations working to ensure the needs of legacy residents are at the forefront of redevelopment.

“Our partnership with WFF has been critical to driving progress in communities like English Avenue and Vine City. Together, we are shaping a future that reflects the needs of residents.” – Terri Lee

Ahmann thanked Lee for her leadership and the collaboration between Atlanta Housing and WFF. He reinforced the importance of continued public and private partnerships to ensure that the Historic Westside remains an inclusive, vibrant and accessible community for all.

Miss the event? Watch the full Transform Westside Summit on YouTube.

In 2019, Food Well Alliance and Westside Future Fund partnered to purchase and revitalize 970 Jefferson St. NW, the historic site of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Bill Bolling and John Ahmann played pivotal roles in making this acquisition a reality, turning a shared vision into a success. The two organizations collaborate on managing the facility, with Food Well Alliance overseeing the warehouse and upstairs space, while Westside Future Fund is responsible for maintaining the rest of the building.

Today, 19 nonprofits and local enterprises utilize 970 Jefferson, operating from this revitalized space to collectively contribute to the betterment of the Westside community and beyond, embodying the shared vision that inspired the partnership. We’ve launched a new series, the 970 Partner Spotlight, to highlight each of these incredible organizations and their work. This issue features the Atlanta Beltline Partnership, a nonprofit dedicated to philanthropic fundraising, donor-supported programming, and advocacy to support the Beltline’s vision for making Atlanta a global beacon for equitable, inclusive, and sustainable city life.

A Vision for Connectivity and Inclusion

From its inception, the Atlanta Beltline has been more than a transit, trail, and greenspace project — it is a movement to unify Atlanta’s communities. Initially conceived by Ryan Gravel as a way to repurpose abandoned rail corridors, the Beltline has since become a transformative force, driving economic development, expanding access to greenspace, and fostering equitable growth across 45 neighborhoods.

Michael Davis, Deputy Executive Director of the Atlanta Beltline Partnership, emphasized the organization’s commitment to inclusivity.

“The Beltline has always been about access and opportunity. It’s about bringing communities together, protecting legacy residents, and ensuring that all Atlantans — especially those on the Westside — can benefit from this city-changing investment.”

Supporting Legacy Residents and Small Businesses

As investment in the Beltline corridor has increased, the Partnership has remained steadfast in its focus on affordability and anti-displacement efforts. A key initiative is the Legacy Resident Retention Program (LRRP). Funded through philanthropic donations, the program provides direct financial assistance to longtime homeowners to help them stay in their homes and build wealth as property values rise.

“Since launching the program four years ago, LRRP homeowners who have been in the program for at least a year have seen their homes appreciate nearly $50,000 on average. Based on the appraised property value in the Fulton County tax records, the home values for the 250 program participants have appreciated by a combined $10.8 million, calculated from the time each participant joined the program. We’re working to make sure that growth benefits the people who built these communities, not just new investors,” Davis explained.

In addition to the Legacy Resident Retention Program, the Atlanta Beltline Partnership offers valuable workshops and webinars for both renters and homeowners, funded through philanthropic donations. These workshops provide essential tools and resources to help residents save on taxes, stay in their homes, and secure their financial future. In 2024, over 600 participants attended these workshops. Homeowners who participated in the property tax appeal workshop experienced an average reduction of $30,000 in their property tax appraisals following their Board of Equalization hearings.

Beyond housing, the Beltline is a catalyst for small business growth, particularly for minority- and women-owned businesses. The Atlanta Beltline Partnership provides philanthropic support for the Atlanta Beltline Marketplace. Managed by Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (the agency responsible for Beltline implementation), this initiative creates commercial affordability solutions across four marketplace locations adjacent to the Southside, Westside, and Eastside.

“For just a couple hundred dollars a month, entrepreneurs gain access to prime foot traffic and business wraparound services to help them scale,” Davis said. “It’s about creating pathways for economic mobility.”

Strengthening the Westside Through Collaboration

Since moving to 970 Jefferson, the Beltline Partnership has been able to deepen its work in Westside neighborhoods, an area historically affected by disinvestment and displacement.

“Our office location puts us at the heart of the communities we serve,” Davis noted. “The collaboration with fellow nonprofits at 970 Jefferson allows us to be more responsive and innovative in tackling challenges like housing affordability, workforce development, and healthy living.”

The Partnership is particularly excited about expanding its health and wellness programs on the Westside. With initiatives like Walk with a Doc in Cook Park in Historic Vine City next to the Westside Beltline Connector and health fairs connecting residents to critical services, the organization is promoting healthier lifestyles and community well-being.

Looking Ahead: Major Investments in Westside Parks and Trails

Exciting park developments are on the horizon for the Westside thanks to donations to the Beltline Partnership from more than 20 donors for two new and expanded greenspaces.  Construction will soon begin on Enota Park, an eight-acre park near Westview, addressing a long-standing lack of recreational space in the area. With amenities like walking trails, a splash pad, a playground, a half-court basketball court, a multi-use field, and more, the park is set to become a new destination for families and community gatherings.

Another landmark project is a world-class bike park at Shirley Clarke Franklin Park (formerly Westside Park). Designed to be one of the most inclusive bike facilities in the country, the park will feature areas for all skill levels, including sections that are accessible to individuals with disabilities. The Beltline Partnership is continuing to raise funds so construction can begin in late 2025.

Meanwhile, as Atlanta prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 17.9 miles of continuous Atlanta Beltline paved trail will be delivered, creating the longest continuous stretch of mainline trail. The acceleration of the Southside Trail construction ensures all segments are complete and link Eastside and Westside Trails.  The Westside Trail – Segment 4, will close the gap between Washington Park and the Westside Beltline Connector Trail in Bankhead, and Northwest Trail – Segment 5, will extend the Beltline north of the intersection of Marietta Boulevard and Huff Road to Ellsworth Industrial and English Street in Blandtown.

“The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation and The James M. Cox Foundation made historic donations through the Beltline Partnership to invest alongside substantial public funding to complete the full 22-mile Beltline trail corridor by 2030. We’ll have nearly 18 miles of contiguous Beltline trail in the spring of 2026, which will make the Westside Trail more accessible than ever,” Davis said.

The Power of Place at 970 Jefferson

For the Atlanta Beltline Partnership, being based at 970 Jefferson is about being part of a collaborative ecosystem working to shape the future of Atlanta.

“This building has a rich history of community service, and it continues to be a hub for positive change,” Davis reflected. “The partnerships we’ve built here are strengthening our ability to serve Atlanta’s residents, ensuring that as the city grows, no one is left behind.”

Learn more about the Atlanta Beltline Partnership and the work happening at 970 Jefferson at 970Jefferson.org.

Atlanta’s historic Westside is a living testament to the city’s rich past and enduring legacy. Throughout the community, streets and landmarks tell the stories of trailblazing leaders whose contributions shaped Atlanta—and the nation.

In honor of Black History Month, we are launching a blog series exploring the namesakes of four significant streets that run through the historic Westside. In this issue, travel down Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway, a prominent thoroughfare stretching through the historic Westside and steeped in history. Formerly known as Bankhead Highway, the street was renamed in 1998 to honor Donald Lee Hollowell, a civil rights trailblazer whose legal expertise helped dismantle racial barriers across Georgia and beyond.

Hollowell’s Role in Civil Rights

As one of the few Black attorneys practicing civil rights law in the 1950s and 1960s, Donald Lee Hollowell took on cases that reshaped Georgia’s legal landscape. He successfully litigated the integration of the University of Georgia in 1961, representing Hamilton Holmes and Charlayne Hunter against the state’s segregationist policies. This landmark case not only broke barriers in education but also set a precedent for the desegregation of other institutions across the South.

Hollowell’s legal work extended beyond the courtroom. He provided counsel to student activists during the Atlanta sit-ins, defended Martin Luther King Jr. during the Albany Movement, and played a pivotal role in securing the release of activists who were unjustly imprisoned. His courage and skill in the face of systemic racism earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of younger civil rights leaders, including Vernon Jordan and Horace Ward.

In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed Hollowell as the first Black regional director of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for the southeastern United States. In this role, Hollowell continued his fight for equity by addressing workplace discrimination and increasing opportunities for African Americans across the region.

A Street That Carries a Legacy

Renamed from Bankhead Highway in 1998, Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway serves as the northern boundary of English Avenue, a historic neighborhood that has been home to cultural movements, iconic musicians, and memorable contributions to Atlanta’s identity. 

Hollowell lived nearby in the affluent and historic Collier Heights neighborhood. Once a bustling corridor during the mid-20th century, the parkway experienced a decline in the 1970s as suburban sprawl drew resources and people away from urban centers. For decades, Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway bore the brunt of disinvestment, but today, revitalization efforts are underway to restore its vibrancy and honor the legacy of “Mr. Civil Rights.”

Revitalization and Reflection

Today, Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway is at the heart of efforts to revitalize Atlanta’s Westside. Community-led initiatives and investments aim to bring new energy to the area while honoring its history.

Westside Future Fund is currently leading several projects on or adjacent to the thoroughfare, including the preservation and restoration of the historic English Avenue Carnegie Library. Plans for the building include repurposing the structure as a commercial space as a resource for the community. 

Just a block away at 646 Echo Street, WFF is leading the construction of a multifamily development that will bring 24 high-quality, affordable rental units. The project will include two buildings standing three stories, and all units will rent at below market rates—half will be reserved for renters earning 80 percent of the area median income or less, 30 percent will be held for occupants at 60 percent AMI, and five apartments will rent for just 30 percent AMI. 

Just a couple blocks north stands 970 Jefferson Street, the headquarters of Westside Future Fund and a collaborative nonprofit hub home to eight other organizations committed to transformational community service work in Atlanta. 

As these efforts unfold, Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway remains a physical and symbolic reminder of Hollowell’s work. His legacy is not only one of dismantling barriers but also of building pathways for future generations to thrive. 

Atlanta’s historic Westside is a living testament to the city’s rich past and enduring legacy. Throughout the community, streets and landmarks tell the stories of trailblazing leaders whose contributions shaped Atlanta—and the nation.

In honor of Black History Month, we are launching a blog series exploring the namesakes of four significant streets that run through the historic Westside. Running through the heart of Atlanta’s Westside, Joseph E. Boone Boulevard stands as a testament to the legacy of a beloved civil rights leader and community advocate. Formerly known as Simpson Road, the street was renamed in 2008 to honor Reverend Joseph Everhart Boone, a man known as “the picketing preacher” for his fearless activism during the Civil Rights Movement.

Joseph E. Boone: A Life of Leadership and Activism

Born in 1922, Joseph E. Boone was shaped by education, faith, and athletics. A graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, he was a star athlete who played Negro League football with the New York Brown Bombers before captaining Houston Tillotson College’s football team. However, his true calling was ministry. After earning his Bachelor of Divinity from Gammon Theological Seminary, he began a career as a pastor and activist—one that would define his legacy.

Before coming to Atlanta, Boone led Alabama’s first Selective Buying Campaign, a precursor to the economic boycotts that helped dismantle segregation across the South. As pastor of Rush Memorial Congregational Church, he mobilized students for the Atlanta Student Movement, which helped desegregate lunch counters, theaters, and public spaces. His leadership nurtured future civil rights icons like Julian Bond, Lonnie King, Marian Wright Edelman, and Carolyn Long Banks.

Beyond Atlanta, Boone was a chief strategist for economic justice, working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as the chief negotiator of Operation Breadbasket, a campaign that pressured businesses to hire Black workers and support Black-owned enterprises. He later served on the Georgia Governor’s Council on Human Relations, appointed by Governor Jimmy Carter.

His activism extended into media and business, co-chairing Atlanta Against Unfairness in Broadcasting, which successfully pressured the FCC to enforce fair programming. He also led initiatives supporting job training, drug treatment, and housing for underserved communities.

Recognized with the Civil Rights Legend Award in 2003 and honored by Congress in 2006, Boone’s relentless fight for justice left a lasting mark on Atlanta. Former Mayor Andrew Young described him as “an aggressive prophet of nonviolent protest.” Today, Joseph E. Boone Boulevard stands as a tribute to his enduring impact, a road that carries forward his vision for justice and equality.

The Boulevard: A Road of Resistance and Renewal

Renaming Simpson Road to Joseph E. Boone Boulevard was a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to fighting injustice in Atlanta. The boulevard runs through neighborhoods that were at the heart of Boone’s work, including Vine City and English Avenue, where he championed economic empowerment, community organizing, and public service.

One notable landmark along Joseph E. Boone Boulevard is Fire Station 16, where Atlanta’s first Black firefighters were stationed after the city integrated its fire department in 1962. A historic plaque outside the station commemorates the efforts of civil rights leaders—including Boone—who pressed Mayor Ivan Allen to integrate the department. Recently, Fire Station 16 received $500,000 in federal funding for restoration, ensuring that this piece of civil rights history remains preserved for future generations.

Westside Future Fund Efforts Along Boone Blvd

True to Joseph E. Boone’s legacy, Westside Future Fund (WFF) is driving transformative development along the blocks surrounding Joseph E. Boone Boulevard, reinforcing its mission to build a vibrant, mixed-income community on Atlanta’s historic Westside.

Just one block away, previously blighted land has been revitalized into single-family homes, now providing stable housing for families with live, learn, and work connections to the community—including staff from the Atlanta University Center and local nonprofits dedicated to serving the Westside.

Expanding on these efforts, Proctor Street Village, a forthcoming development, will introduce a mix of single-family and multifamily homes, delivering dozens of high-quality, affordable housing units and further strengthening local housing opportunities.

One of WFF’s most anticipated projects, 839 Joseph E. Boone Blvd, is set for completion in 2025. This mixed-use development will feature 33 affordable rental units alongside 1,200 square feet of commercial space, bringing much-needed housing and retail opportunities to the corridor.

Adjacent to this new development is Kathryn Johnston Park, a vital greenspace that WFF helped bring to the community in partnership with local leaders. The park serves as both a recreational space—with a full-scale playground for children—and a stormwater management solution, helping to alleviate long-standing flooding issues. To ensure the park remains a welcoming space for residents, the WFF Volunteer Corps regularly hosts community clean-ups and maintenance efforts.

As WFF moves into Our Next Chapter—a pivotal capital campaign funding its affordable housing goals through 2028—its work along Joseph E. Boone Blvd stands as a testament to its commitment to inclusive, sustainable progress for the historic Westside.

Learn more about Our Next Chapter today.

For Jon Ingram, joining Westside Future Fund (WFF) as Chief Development Officer is more than a professional milestone—it’s a homecoming. Raised with deep roots in Atlanta’s Westside, Ingram brings both a wealth of experience in nonprofit development and an intrinsic understanding of the community WFF serves.

A Career Built on Service and Community Engagement

Ingram’s career began with the Boy Scouts of America, where he spent years developing and expanding youth programs, fostering community partnerships, and managing fundraising initiatives. Over time, his role grew to oversee five counties in metro Atlanta and lead a team of eight executives. He later transitioned to a development-focused role, managing special events and the annual fund campaign.

From there, he joined the Woodruff Arts Center as Director of Corporate Relations, where he specialized in strategic partnerships, aligning corporate objectives with meaningful community impact. It was here that Ingram honed his ability to connect organizations in ways that create lasting value—not just for stakeholders, but for the broader community.

Now, as WFF’s Chief Development Officer, he is bringing that expertise back to the place that shaped him.

A Personal Connection to the Westside

Ingram’s bond with Atlanta’s Westside runs deep. He grew up surrounded by leaders and mentors from neighborhoods like Vine City and Collier Heights—people who instilled in him the values of education, service, and resilience. His mother and grandmother, both proud Spelman College alumni, instilled in him a deep appreciation for education and community empowerment. His grandmother, a devoted educator, taught at several Westside schools, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. His grandmother, a dedicated educator, taught at several Westside schools, and his parents were intentional about ensuring he remained connected to the community’s history and opportunities.

“My parents made an intentional choice of making sure my brother and I were involved in afterschool and summer programs in the Westside,” Ingram shared. “These were the people who believed in me when I was just a child. Not giving back to those people would be a disservice to who I am as a person.”

His faith has also played a central role in his journey. Growing up, he participated in youth development programs through local churches, including those in the Atlanta University Center (AUC). That foundation of service, faith, and education continues to guide his work today.

A Vision for the Future

As WFF looks ahead, Ingram is committed to helping the organization further its mission through sustainable fundraising and strategic partnerships. He is drawn to WFF’s approach of working with the community, ensuring that residents have a seat at the table when it comes to shaping their own future.

“I love the phrasing about doing with the community and not to the community,” he said. “I’ve always believed in that mentality when working with people. Communities like this are filled with families looking to build better futures, and if I can provide something to help them achieve that, I’m going to do it.”

For Ingram, a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. serves as a guiding principle as he enters into WFF’s mission: “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” By strengthening the Westside, he believes, WFF is not just uplifting one community but fostering a ripple effect of positive change throughout Atlanta and beyond.

With Ingram at the helm of development, WFF is poised to continue its transformative work—ensuring that Atlanta’s historic Westside becomes not only one of the most sought-after communities in the city but a place where legacy residents can thrive.

Atlanta’s historic Westside is a living testament to the city’s rich past and enduring legacy. Throughout the community, streets and landmarks tell the stories of trailblazing leaders whose contributions shaped Atlanta—and the nation.

In honor of Black History Month, we are launching a blog series exploring the namesakes of four significant streets that run through the historic Westside. We begin with James P. Brawley Drive, a key corridor in the English Avenue and Vine City neighborhoods. Formerly known as Chestnut Street, this thoroughfare honors Dr. James P. Brawley—a visionary educator, university president, and tireless advocate for racial equity and higher learning.

The Legacy of James P. Brawley

Born on September 26, 1894, in Lockhart, Texas, James P. Brawley’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and faith. After being adopted by his paternal aunt and uncle at the age of three, Brawley was raised in a Christian household that he credited with shaping both his personal and spiritual life. From attending a one-room elementary school to graduating with honors from Samuel Huston College, Brawley’s academic journey was marked by determination and excellence.

Brawley’s career in higher education began after earning his Bachelor of Arts degree and pursuing graduate studies at the University of Southern California, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago. His passion for education and leadership brought him to Clark University (now Clark Atlanta University), where he became the head of the Department of Education and Religious Education in 1925. Over the next two decades, he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming president of Clark University in 1941—a position he held for 24 transformative years.

During his presidency, Brawley’s vision and leadership reshaped the institution and its role in the Atlanta University Center. He spearheaded the relocation of Clark University to its current site, initiated groundbreaking academic programs, and oversaw the expansion of the campus with new buildings, including an athletic field and a president’s residence. He also helped establish a development office and secured funding that left the university with a budget surplus and no debt by the time of his retirement.

Beyond his work at Clark, Brawley was a founding member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), a pivotal organization that has provided scholarships and financial support to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for generations. His contributions extended into the Methodist Church, where he worked to eliminate racial segregation within its structures and championed social action.

James P. Brawley Drive NW: A Street Rich in History

James P. Brawley Drive NW runs through the historic English Avenue neighborhood, an area that has played a vital role in Atlanta’s cultural and civil rights history. English Avenue, known for its rich character and strong sense of community, was once a thriving hub of Black life and enterprise.

The renaming of Chestnut Street to James P. Brawley Drive NW is a recognition of the profound impact Dr. Brawley had on Atlanta’s Westside and the broader Black community. His contributions to education, his dedication to social justice, and his unwavering belief in the power of knowledge continue to resonate today.

Westside Future Fund’s Transformative Work on the Brawley Corridor

A vital thoroughfare through the English Avenue and Vine City neighborhoods, the Brawley corridor is at the heart of Westside Future Fund’s (WFF) commitment to equitable community revitalization. Through strategic development efforts, WFF has restored or rebuilt 27 single-family homes and developed 43 high-quality, affordable multifamily units—ensuring that legacy residents and individuals with deep community ties can continue to call the Westside home.

Alongside these housing efforts, WFF’s Anti-Displacement Tax Fund is protecting longtime homeowners on the corridor from rising property taxes, allowing them to remain in their homes and benefit from the neighborhood’s transformation.

Looking ahead, WFF is preparing to restore the historic Yellow Store, a once-thriving neighborhood landmark that, in the wake of disinvestment, became a hotspot for illegal activity. As part of a broader redevelopment strategy, the site is set to be revitalized into a dynamic mixed-use space, bringing new business and residential opportunities to the corridor.

Just across the street, St. Mark AME Church stands as another beacon of renewal. Once abandoned, the church has been reactivated as a vital community hub, thanks to the leadership of Reverend Winston Taylor. WFF has been honored to support this effort, reinforcing its commitment to fostering spaces that bring the community together.

Westside Future Fund’s work along the Brawley corridor is a critical piece of its mission to transform the historic Westside into a vibrant, mixed-income community. As the organization moves into Our Next Chapter—a pivotal capital campaign to fund its affordable housing goals through 2028—this work remains a testament to WFF’s dedication to inclusive, lasting progress.

Learn more about Our Next Chapter today.

On the weekend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, over 1,200 volunteers gathered in Atlanta’s historic Westside to honor his enduring legacy of justice, equality, and service. Westside Future Fund’s 2025 MLK Day of Service showcased the power of collective action, inspired by Dr. King’s vision of a future built on opportunity and equity for all.

Dr. King’s connection to the Westside is profound. It was here, in this vibrant community, that he lived, worked, and learned — walking its streets and envisioning a brighter, more just tomorrow. The 2025 Day of Service brought together neighbors, partners, and supporters with a shared commitment to turning that vision into meaningful action.

Through the generous support of our presenting sponsor, The Home Depot, and the leadership of the Westside Future Fund team, volunteers took on impactful projects that left a lasting mark. Public spaces were revitalized, beautiful gardens were planted, and transformative projects on school campuses within the Washington cluster created warm and welcoming environments for students, parents and staff alike. The team effort among volunteers from across Atlanta highlighted the unifying force of community service.

“It was amazing to see so many people come out and support not only our students but our parents, our teachers, and our school community as a whole,” said Dr. Teruko Dobashi, principal of M. Agnes Jones Elementary School. “I think it’s really important for our students to have access to people who look like them, who may not look like them, showing them how to pour into a community so that they can take that and lead and do the same. We’re all about paying it forward here.”

Throughout the day, individuals from diverse backgrounds came together with a common purpose: to answer Dr. King’s enduring question, “What are you doing for others?” The dedication, energy, and compassion shown by volunteers reflected the very principles Dr. King championed and underscored the strength of collective action in creating a thriving community.

“Giving back as a general matter is important because we are very lucky people,” said Cristina Graham of Morris, Manning, & Martin, LLP. “The people that you’re looking at here have done great things in life and in order to support our communities and give back for the blessings that we’ve received, it’s so critical to make sure that we help others that need it.”

The 2025 MLK Day of Service was a powerful reminder of the ties that bind neighbors together and the shared responsibility to build a community where everyone can succeed.

Westside Future Fund extends deep gratitude to every volunteer, partner, and sponsor who contributed to the success of this day. Each act of service carried forward Dr. King’s dream and continues to transform Atlanta’s historic Westside into a place of pride, progress, and opportunity — a community Dr. King would be proud to call home.

“The work that we do is so place-based. Everything we do at Westside Future Fund is in these Westside neighborhoods,” said Rachel Carey, Chief Real Estate Officer at Westside Future Fund. “This is an important community for us to nurture, to pour into and to get back from that in the fulfillment of the work that we do.”

The journey of building stronger communities and uplifting neighbors does not end with a single day. Honoring Dr. King’s legacy means committing to service and transformation every day. 

“Our second semester vision is a degree above the rest,” said Dr. Dobashi. “And that’s what Westside Future Fund is: a degree above the rest. Because they came out and showed out today, and every day that they’ve been here.”

Learn more about Westside Future Fund and how to get involved by visiting westsidefuturefund.org.

The first Transform Westside Summit of 2025 was held January 17 and marked a pivotal milestone in Westside Future Fund (WFF) history as the organization celebrates its 10th anniversary. The event reflected on a decade of transformative progress while charting a bold path forward to continue honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of a compassionate, inclusive and thriving community.

WFF President & CEO John Ahmann opened the Summit by highlighting the nonprofit’s origins in 2015 and its mission to revitalize the historic Westside neighborhoods into a community Dr. King would be proud of. English Avenue resident Ebony Ford shared her personal connection to the work, emphasizing the importance of resident-driven change. Shawn Watwood, Sr., Director of Corporate Philanthropy at Morehouse School of Medicine, led the devotion, encouraging unity and purpose as the community enters a new year of opportunity and growth.

Moderated by Ahmann, the presentation featured WFF leaders offering a reflective look at 2024’s milestones and an inspiring vision for the year ahead.

Key Updates from the Panelists:

• Tameka Askew, Director of Home on the Westside, reflected on the progress in delivering affordable housing and anti-displacement resources.
  • Thanks to generous philanthropic donors, HOTW offers up to $60,000 in down payment assistance.
  • Anti-Displacement Tax Fund (ADTF) continues to empower legacy residents to remain in their neighborhoods. In 2024, there were 10 new ADTF participants and $172,137 in taxes paid, bringing the total to 149 participants since the program’s inception.
  • She highlighted the program’s success in reaching halfway toward its 800-unit goal for permanently affordable rental housing, with 285 slated for construction in 2025.
• Raquel Hudson, Director of Westside Volunteer Corps & Events, celebrated the growing impact of community volunteerism through neighborhood clean-ups, youth programs and community-building events.
  • More than 3,000 volunteers completed 39 projects in 2024, the largest engagement to date.
  • Engagement efforts include park clean-ups, school supply drives, painting murals and bingo with seniors, among others.
  • More than 20 corporate partners contributed to these efforts.
  • 1,200 volunteers have already registered for the 2025 MLK Day of Service.
• Rachel Carey, Chief Real Estate Officer, shared updates on new developments and renovations completed in 2024.
  • There has been a 50% reduction in blighted properties since 2017, driven by strategic land acquisitions in Vine City and English Avenue. These have been replaced with schools, homes and parks.
  • Major projects include the development of 33 affordable housing units and 1,200 square feet of retail space along Boone in English Avenue and the 24-unit Echo Street project, which ensures accessibility with two ADA-compliant units.
  • A 12-unit development at 588/592 Pains in English Avenue will offer 2-bedroom, 1-bath for families and individuals.
• Derrick Jordan, Real Estate Development Consultant, provided insights into projects completed in 2024 and shared exciting updates on innovative developments set to break ground in 2025.
  • Neighborhood rehabs, which are critical to the environment from a blight perspective, were a main focus in 2024.
  • WFF has several projects in the design phase throughout English Avenue and Vine City, featuring all new construction to serve both families and seniors, including 28 units on 390 Sunset and 18 units on James P. Brawley in Vine City.

Fundraising Progress and Future Goals

Ahmann announced that WFF has raised $35 million toward its $55 million goal, thanks to support from philanthropic partners, including The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and Woodruff Foundation. The summit concluded with a forward-looking discussion, focusing on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Key priorities for 2025 include:

• Building 225 single-family homes and activating underutilized spaces like the Carnegie Library in English Avenue.
• Expanding Home on the Westside initiatives to help more families achieve affordable homeownership.
• Increasing community engagement through expanded Westside Volunteer Corps
• Strengthening partnerships to support education, safety and wellness initiatives.
• Reaching 100% of the affordable housing goals set for 2025.

Miss the event? Watch the full Transform Westside Summit on YouTube.