West Willow Park to Receive Improvements Through Local Collaboration and National Support

YPSILANTI, MICH. – A West Willow Neighborhood collaboration of local nonprofits, government and neighborhood leaders will begin resident-requested improvements and upgrades to the West Willow Park in the coming months, thanks to funding received from the Republic Services Charitable Foundation’s National Neighborhood Promise grant.

Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley (Habitat) is teaming up with the New West Willow Neighborhood Association (NWWNA), Odindi Youth Action Village (OYA), the Charter Township of Ypsilanti, and West Willow residents to upgrade and improve the West Willow Park, located in the center of the neighborhood. Improvements will include adding paved, ADA accessible parking spaces, a half-sized basketball court for younger aged youth, soccer goals, shaded seating areas, stretching and exercise stations along the soon-to-be paved walking path, trash and recycling receptacles, and upgraded signage. Additional projects include installing a well at the West Willow Community Garden, located near the park, for easier access to water for this resident-managed garden, and two neighborhood beautification project days.

“Habitat believes that strong neighborhoods build a foundation that lift an entire community,” said Habitat Senior Director of Resident & Community Engagement Sarah Teare. “The West Willow Park improvements are resident-requested, led by our partner organizations and prove that the whole community will benefit from Habitat and Republic Service’s investment by bringing more people together in a desired, sustainable place.”

In 2015, Habitat, the Township and West Willow residents partnered to determine and focus on neighborhood revitalization activities. A Steering Committee was formed and door-to-door surveying, focus groups and vision meetings took place to ask residents and stakeholders where investments were needed. The result was this collaboration to improve livability for all in West Willow, including building a pavilion, Tool Lending Library, Little Free Libraries and many other resident-led improvements.

In 2022, OYA, the NWWNA and West Willow residents began working together to determine what West Willow community members would like to see to make their neighborhood park more inviting and enjoyable for all residents of all ages. At that time, the park had an outdated baseball diamond and playground equipment, a dirt walking path, an older pavilion, and a few seating areas with tables.

OYA distributed a survey to community members of all ages and followed up with their Storytelling Action and Advocacy group hosting intergenerational meetings for the youth and elders of the community to discuss how they wanted to further improve and enhance their community.

“It is amazing seeing the power of collective work when residents young and old come together to advocate for a safe space within our neighborhood,” said OYA Executive Director and Co-Founder Akin Oluwadare. “The newly renovated park will not only serve as a place to play and exercise but also as a reminder to residents that when we come together we can create the change we wish to see.”

The Charter Township of Ypsilanti owns West Willow Park, and based on the 2022 community input, they completed several park improvements in 2024, including increased handicap accessibility, a new roof for the pavilion, new swings, paving of the walking path, and new play structures for both younger and older children. But there were still other upgrades that the community wanted to see.

“It takes a Village, is not just a statement but a movement in Ypsilanti Township. We strongly believe that the heart of our community is the strength and resiliency that stems from the diversity and involvement of our residents,” said Ypsilanti Township Supervisor Brenda Stumbo. “The improvements addressed by this project are a representation of the wishes of both the youth and elders of the West Willow neighborhood. That is why we are so excited by and invested in the work this grant is allowing to happen.”

Through the grant support, Habitat, the Township, OYA,NWWNA and West Willow residents will be able to complete the rest of the resident-requested upgrades. The West Willow Park collaboration, led by Habitat, was one of 14 nonprofit organizations to receive the National Neighborhood Promise grant.

"This project will directly benefit West Willow by providing a vibrant hub for my community, fostering connection, promoting physical health, and providing a much-needed improvement of green space where everyone can relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors, enhancing our overall quality of life,” said Community Leader and West Willow Resident Jo Ann McCollum.

The park improvements will result in a safer, more enjoyable place for all West Willow residents and are expected to be completed by the fall of 2025. Residents will continue to be involved in the implementation of upgrades, ensuring that the improvements align with the dreams and desires of the West Willow community to strengthen the social cohesion within the neighborhood.

“Through collaboration, engagement, and action, we are committed to making our neighborhood a safe, vibrant, and welcoming place for all,” said NWWNA President Christina McAllister. “I encourage every resident to get involved, share their voice, and be part of the positive change we are building together.”

About Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley
Habitat for Humanity of Huron Valley has been a catalyst for stabilizing homes, families, and communities in Washtenaw County since 1989. Building homes, securing futures, and strengthening communities… under one roof. We work to enrich Washtenaw County through a legacy of affordable homeownership for families and individuals of low income. For over 35 years, Habitat has built or renovated 280+ homes, completed 10,000+ home improvement projects, provided 7,500+ energy-efficient appliance replacements, and engaged with more than 11,000 residents and community partners through community development activities. Beyond the local community, HHHV has also provided more than $900,000 to support international Habitat work. For more information, visit www.h4h.org.

Ypsilanti Township

Ypsilanti Township was established from the former community known as Woodgruff's Grove that was settled in 1823 by Ohio native Benjamin Woodruff. A post office operated in Woodgruff's Grove from May 9, 1825, to January 28, 1828. At the time, the community was administratively part of Wayne County when Ypsilanti Township was created in 1827. Washtenaw County was created in 1829 within the Michigan Territory.  By population, Ypsilanti Township is now the 7th largest township in Michigan, consisting of approximately 57,000 residents.

Ypsilanti Township is known for the Ford Lake Hydroelectric station (Hydro Dam), which was part of Henry Ford Village Industries in the 1930’s, and the Willow Run Bomber Plant constructed in 1941. Our very own Rose Will Monroe was an original WWII “Rosie the Riveter” employed by the U.S. Army Air Forces to work assembly line production of the B-24 “Liberator” heavy bomber planes at what was then known as the Willow Run Aircraft Factory.

Our 28 beautiful parks are great places to enjoy your leisure activities, youth camps and special events. Each Park presents a unique reflection of the neighborhood where it exists and offers an opportunity to unite the residents and build community connections.  As a Township, we believe that open, accurate communication and input is key to building a successful Community.  That is why we are so invested in furthering resident involvement in neighborhood development.  Individual neighborhood strength and growth is key to advancement and growth for the Township as a whole.

New West Willow Neighborhood Association

The New West Willow Neighborhood Association (NWWNA) is dedicated to fostering a safe, vibrant, and connected community in West Willow, Ypsilanti Township. Our mission is to empower residents through advocacy, resource-sharing, and collaborative initiatives that enhance neighborhood pride, safety, and economic opportunity. We strive to create an inclusive environment where all residents have a voice in shaping the future of West Willow, ensuring a thriving and resilient community for generations to come.

Odindi Youth Action Village

Odindi Youth Action Village is a 501c3 and was founded in 2022 by father and son, Akinbambo and Akintunde Oluwadare to create an environment within the 48197 and 48198 zip codes for youth and elders to thrive and be able to live positive, healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives into adulthood.