Greetings From Our Heart of Hope Sponsor
The CareSource Foundation is honored to stand with the incredible team at Omega CDC. Their commitment to transforming the West Side of Dayton is not just improving a neighborhood — it’s unlocking opportunity and changing lives.
We believe the greatest investment we can make is in people. In their potential. In their ability to take hold of their future. Omega CDC lives this belief every day. They are creating safe places for children to learn and lead, equipping families with tools to thrive, and strengthening the foundations of independence that help individuals rise and succeed.
We are especially proud to have Dr. Vanessa Ward serving on the CareSource Foundation Board. Her leadership and deep roots in this community guide us as we work to ensure Ohioans have the chance to build a strong, self-suf icient life.
Omega CDC’s work is about more than meeting needs — it’s about creating pathways and empowering people to move from struggle to stability and from stability to success. It’s about proving that when Ohio families have a fair shot and the right support, they don’t just get by — they lourish.
We are proud to be more than funders — we are active partners and believers in this work. Omega CDC shows us what can happen when compassion meets action, when investment is paired with initiative, and when a community comes together for the good of others.
Together, we’re not just helping people today — we’re helping them build the skills, con idence, and independence to thrive tomorrow.
Thank you, Omega CDC, for leading boldly and proving what is possible for Dayton’s future.
Ellen Miller, Vice President Community Relations and CareSource Foundation
Rick and Tawnya
PROGRAM
Mistresses of Ceremonies
Rachel Ward, Vice-President
Ja’Niya Belcher
Hope Zone Teen Ambassador
Omega CDC
Musical Selection (pg. 24) Current & Former Scholars of H.O.P.E.
Welcome
Presenting Sponsor
Remarks
Prayer
Live Music
Statement of Occasion
Testimonial
Rachel Ward
Ja’Niya Belcher
Ellen Miller, Vice President
Community Relations and CareSource Foundation
Rev. Joshua Ward, Pastor
Omega Baptist Church
John Fedrick, Saxophonist
Darius Beckham, Board Chair
Omega CDC
Justin Lee, Rising Star Intern
Omega CDC
Introduction of Leonard and Julia Price
Keynote Speaker
Keynote Speaker
Video Presentation
Fundraising Appeal
Thank You
Closing Remarks
Hope Zone Resident Leaders
Omega CDC
Dr. Aisha Nyandoro, CEO
Springboard To Opportunities
Legacy of Hope: A Vision for Northwest Dayton
Rev. Vanessa Ward, President
Omega CDC
Rachel Ward
Ja’Niya Belcher
Rev. Vanessa Ward
Rachel Ward
Greetings from Our President
It is with heartfelt gratitude that I welcome you to Omega CDC’s 4th Annual Gala. Tonight, we gather in celebration and thanksgiving for the Legacy of Hope that Omega has demonstrated. A legacy that is a living testament to our commitment to building hope and opening doors in Northwest Dayton.
This legacy began with a faithful congregation who refused to give up—not on the people, the residents, or the children and families who worshiped here and lived in the surrounding neighborhoods. Many we knew by name, and others we came to know through shared struggles and shared dreams.
From Youth Explosion, Character Academy, and the Omega School of Excellence; to the Hope Center for Families, Omega Senior Lofts, and Hope Zone Promise Neighborhood - every program, partnership, and initiative reminds us that transformation begins with people who care enough to make a difference.
Over three decades, Omega has carried that torch—reigniting the spirit of neighbors looking out for one another, block by block, family by family. And in recent years, we’ve seen powerful reminders that Northwest Dayton is still strong, resilient, and rooted in hope. But A Legacy of Hope is not just a memory—it’s an inheritance of faith, courage, and compassion passed from one generation to the next.
As we look towards our Vision 2030, Omega CDC is charting a course towards an even brighter future for every child, family, and neighbor we serve. This next chapter will require all of us—partners, friends, and community members—to stand together and Advance Hope.
Tonight, you’ll hear stories that re lect our ongoing legacy. May your presence and generosity renew our shared commitment to this work— and to one another. Thank you for joining us in this celebration and in this calling. The future of Northwest Dayton is being built today—with hope as our foundation and faith as our guide.
Warmly,
Vanessa Ward President, Omega CDC
Greetings From Our Beacon of Hope Sponsor
We’re here to celebrate the incredible work of Omega Community Development Corporation and the lasting impact they’re making in Northwest Dayton and beyond. At Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®) we believe in the power of partnerships—and Omega CDC is a shining example of what happens when mission-driven organizations unite to serve people.
This year, WPCU is honored to be the Beacon of Hope sponsor for this gala. That title re lects how deeply we believe in Omega CDC’s mission and the meaningful work they do every day. Supporting their efforts isn’t just a responsibility—it’s a privilege.
Our purpose at WPCU is simple: Everyone deserves a caring inancial partner who builds hope and improves well-being. That’s why we invest in organizations like Omega CDC—because together, we’re stronger, more effective and better equipped to uplift our communities.
Hope takes many forms. At WPCU, it’s empowering families and providing access to fair inancial tools. It’s irst-time homeownership, small business dreams and the con idence to take control of one’s inancial life.
We’re deeply committed to the people across Southwest and Central Ohio. Whether through coaching, partnerships, or simply showing up where we’re needed most, our goal is to help every person build a stronger, more secure future. Tonight, I invite you to re lect on what hope means to you and how, by working together, we can continue to build it in the lives of others.
Thank you to the Omega CDC and Hope Center for Families Boards of Trustees, the Gala Committee, and everyone here who believes in the power of community.
Enjoy the evening!
Tim Mislansky, President & CEO Wright-Patt Credit Union
Greetings From Our Beacon of Hope Sponsor
Welcome to the Legacy of HOPE Gala.
Thank you for joining us tonight to celebrate the transformative work of the Hope Center for Families and the Omega Community Development Corporation.
Kettering Health is honored to support this event and the mission it represents: breaking the cycle of generational poverty in West Dayton.
We are especially proud to stand alongside Vanessa Ward, Omega CDC’s founder and a valued member of our Board of Directors. Her vision and leadership have created a space where families can access the resources, relationships, and opportunities they need to thrive. At Kettering Health, our mission is to live God’s love by promoting and restoring health. That means we care deeply about the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—and about the communities we serve. We believe that health is not just the absence of illness, but the presence of opportunity, dignity, and hope.
Hope looks like a child with access to early education. It looks like a parent inding meaningful work. It looks like families supported by wraparound services that help them thrive. And it looks like neighbors coming together to build something lasting.
Tonight, as we re lect on what hope looks like, I invite you to consider how each of us can help nurture it: by investing in the health and wholeness of our communities and by walking alongside those who are working to make a difference every day.
Thank you to the boards of Omega CDC and the Hope Center for Families, the gala committee, and every person here tonight who shares in this vision.
Michael Gentry, CEO Kettering Health
With more than two decades of experience working to improve the quality of life for people with limited inancial resources, Aisha Nyandoro is a leader in the campaign to end generational poverty. She is the founding CEO of Springboard To Opportunities, a nonpro it that helps affordable housing residents reach their life goals. In 2018, Nyandoro launched the Magnolia Mother’s Trust, a irstof-its-kind guaranteed income program for Black mothers in the United States, and she has worked to scale the program’s success nationally through policies such as the expanded Child Tax Credit and a federal guaranteed income.
Nyandoro is an Emerson Collective Dial Fellow as well as a fellow of the Highland Project, W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network and Ascend at the Aspen Institute. She is a TED speaker, 2022 McNulty Prize Winner and the 2022 Disrupter Change Champion from Community Change. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Essence, NBC, and CNN. She holds a B.A. from Tennessee State University, and an M.A. and PhD. from Michigan State University. When not working to liberate inancial capital, she is a wife and mom to two very charming sons.
H
Z T A
Teen Ambassadors lead Hope Zone’s RE-LITE Nites—fun, safe gatherings for local teens. They help plan and host events, welcome guests, lead games and discussions, and promote activities through social media. Beyond event support, Ambassadors represent Hope Zone at community events and serve as positive role models. The experience offers leadership and teamwork skills, a $100 weekly stipend, and the chance to make a lasting community impact.
J ’N B
H Z T A
Ja’Niya “Niya” Belcher is a 16-year-old junior at Stivers School for the Arts with a passion for using her voice to inspire and advocate for her peers. She is a poet, public speaker, member of Young Ladies Aspiring Greatness (YLAG), and an active participant in Learn to Earn Dayton as both a speaker and listener.
As a Youth Ambassador and Resident Leader with Omega CDC, Ja’Niya has been actively involved in community listening sessions since late 2022. Initially, she sought ways to make an impact through YLAG, poetry, and her summer camp, but she still felt there was more she could do. Through her involvement with Omega, she inally experienced being truly heard and seen, which deepened her commitment to youth advocacy. Inspired by this experience, Ja’Niya now uses her voice to represent and empower the young people she meets.
R
S I
Omega CDC’s Rising Stars Internship connects graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools to paid summer internships in healthcare, engineering, and business. Over twelve weeks, interns gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and leadership training— earning a $2,500 college scholarship upon completion. In partnership with Dayton Public Schools and SOCHE, the program prepares students for college, careers, and long-term success.
J L
O CDC R S I
Justin Lee is a irst-year student at the University of Dayton, majoring in Psychology. A recent graduate of Thurgood Marshall STEM High School and Sinclair College, Justin earned an associate degree in psychology while he was still in high school.
Passionate about understanding human behavior and supporting others, Justin is committed to a future in mental health. Over the summer, he participated in Omega CDC’s Rising Star Internship Program and was placed with Omega CDC, where he gained hands-on experience working with community programs and developed practical skills in communication, organization, and teamwork. He continues to build on these experiences as he pursues his academic and professional goals.
Outside of academics, Justin enjoys meeting new people and spending time with friends and family. The relationships he builds continue to inspire and motivate him as he moves forward in his education and career goals.
Hope Zone Resident Leaders
Resident Leaders ensure the success of Hope Zone’s Monthly Workgroups—meetings that drive collaboration and community action. Secretaries record discussions, Speakers lead sessions, and the Event Coordinator manages logistics. Greeters, Floaters, and Timekeepers support the low and engagement of each meeting. Together, they strengthen communication, teamwork, and accountability across Northwest Dayton.
L
P
H Z R L
Born to Edward and Catherine Price, Leonard Price proudly calls himself a “Navy brat.” His upbringing took him around the world—from Guam to Italy to Germany. After returning to the U.S., he settled in Cincinnati before marrying and making his home in Dayton.
A devoted husband to Julia Price, Mr. Price is a father, grandfather, coach, minister, and dedicated community activist. As a proud Resident Leader, he believes that when people are given the proper support and information—along with God’s help—they can transform their lives and their communities.
J P
H Z R L
Julia Price, wife of Leonard Price and daughter of Ruth and Richard Butler, is a proud Daytonian by way of Tunica, Mississippi. A devoted wife, mother, business owner, and community activist, Mrs. Price also serves as a Resident Leader and Event Coordinator for Omega CDC.
She believes that through coordinated community effort—and a little faith—we can spark meaningful change and break the cycles of intergenerational poverty.
PURPOSE
Inspire Hope
MISSION
Breaking the cycle of intergenera onal poverty by catalyzing change in Northwest Dayton.
VALUES
We are RESILIENT
We are trailblazers and risk‐takers with a commitment to rise against all odds.
We model EXCELLENCE
We value high standards with measurable expecta ons catalyzing growth and transforma on within our community.
We act in LOVE
We embrace “heart work” through shared stories and experiences. Our “Heart Work” is welcoming, invi ng, empathe c, equitable, and radical.
We stand in INTEGRITY
We are deeply rooted in a rich culture of faith and servant leadership, which encourages honest and transparent rela onships.
We rise TOGETHER
We know that we can only build a stronger community by li ing each other through partnership, collabora on, and engagement—we will arrive together.
UBUNTU = I am because you are.
We EMPOWER others
We are inten onal in our approach to dismantling systems of oppression by breaking down barriers, removing obstacles, and building collec ve and transforma ve power.
Omega CDC is a cradle-to-career, place-based organization dedicated to supporting children and families from birth through adulthood. Through strong partnerships with schools, health systems, and community organizations, Omega CDC connects education, wellness, and workforce opportunities to create a lasting impact. Together, we are building a continuum of support that strengthens every stage of life in the Hope Zone.
Prenatal ‐
Post Secondary & Workforce
Dayton Children’s
Dayton Chris an Center
Five Rivers Health Center
Goodwill Easter Seals
Help Me Grow
Brighter Futures
Mini University
Moms2B
Scholars of H.O.P.E.* Family Resource Coordina on*
Preven on with a Purpose* Student Success Planning* West Dayton Caravan of Churches Dayton Scholars
Scholars of H.O.P.E.* Family Resource Coordina on*
Preven on with a Purpose* Student Success Navigators*
Family Resource Coordina on*
Student Success Planning*
Brunner Literacy Bo om Line
Sinclair Community College
Maternal Family Coaching*
MVCDC
Preschool Promise
Abundant Life A er School
Dayton Leadership Academy High Impact Tutoring
Edgemont Solar Garden
Dayton Urban Young Life
Young Ladies Aspiring Greatness
Bo om Line
Hope Zone Rising Stars Internship*
WORK AND CAREER
Workforce Development* | Family Coaching* | Wright‐Pa Credit Union Financial Coaching
COMMUNITY SUPPORT PARTNERS
Miami Valley Meals | Spectrum New Beginnings | YMCA | Be HOME In You
SYSTEMS PARTNERS
Montgomery County ADAMHS Board | City of Dayton | Dayton Metro Library
Dayton Public Schools | Learn to Earn | Mathile Family Founda on | MinedXAI
Montgomery County BCC | Montgomery County HSPD | Montgomery County Juvenile Court
MVRPC | Omega Bap st Church ‐ CERO | Sinclair Community College
The Dayton Founda on | University of Dayton
NATIONAL PARTNERS
William Julius Wilson Ins tute | Harvard EdRedesign Lab | Purpose Built Communi es
*denotes program or service provided by Omega CDC
HOPE ZONE PROMISE NEIGHBORHOOD
Omega CDC leads the Hope Zone Promise Neighborhood initiative, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, with a goal of serving more than 6,700 children and 3,400 families across 17 neighborhoods in Northwest Dayton. Through place-based, cradle-to -career services focused on Education, Economic Stability, Health and Wellness, and Community Engagement, Omega CDC works with strong community partnerships to build coordinated systems of support that create lasting opportunity for every stage of life.
Scan the QR code below to read more about the work Omega CDC is doing in the Hope Zone in this spotlight from our friends at EdRedesign.
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
We are exceedingly grateful for your support!
Thank you to our generous sponsors! We are exceedingly grateful for your support!
BAPTIST CHURCH
SCHOLARS
