A New Chapter Begins at Omega CDC

Omega Community Development Corporation is entering a new chapter with a leadership transition and the launch of RISE Northwest Development Corporation, a new nonprofit subsidiary focused on deeper, place-based investment in five Northwest Dayton neighborhoods. Together, this work strengthens long-term support for families, residents, and communities across the Hope Zone.

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Omega Community Development Corporation (Omega CDC) is stepping into a new chapter for Northwest Dayton, one rooted in deeper focus, shared leadership, and a long-term commitment to the neighborhoods we serve.

For nearly three decades, we have walked alongside families in Northwest Dayton, investing in neighborhoods and supporting pathways to stability that last. As the needs of our community continue to evolve, we are responding with intention, listening closely, and adjusting how we show up to better serve residents.

We are entering a new phase of our work through a leadership transition and the launch of RISE Northwest Development Corporation, a nonprofit subsidiary created to support more focused, place-based investment in specific neighborhoods.

Why RISE Northwest Development Corporation Was Created

Northwest Dayton is made up of many neighborhoods, each with its own history, strengths, and challenges. Over time, residents and community leaders shared a consistent message with us. Lasting change requires focus. It requires being present, coordinated, and committed in the places where people live, work, and raise their families.

That insight led to the creation of RISE Northwest Development Corporation. Shaped through resident-led planning, community conversations, and workgroups, RISE Northwest focuses on five Northwest Dayton neighborhoods: 

• Mt. Vernon
• Fairview
• College Hill 
• Hillcrest
• Dayton View Triangle

By concentrating efforts in these areas, we can go deeper and respond more directly to neighborhood priorities.

Through RISE Northwest, we are supporting cradle-to-career education pathways, mixed-income housing, neighborhood revitalization, economic vitality, and community wellness. 

Leadership Aligned With Purpose

To support this next chapter, we implemented a leadership structure that keeps our organizations closely connected while allowing each to remain focused on its mission.

 

Rachel Ward has been named President of Omega CDC after previously serving as Vice President. She brings deep institutional knowledge, trusted community relationships, and a steady commitment to serving all 17 neighborhoods within the Hope Zone. Under her leadership, we will continue the work our community has relied on for decades.

At the same time, Vanessa Ward will transition to CEO of Omega CDC and will lead RISE Northwest Development Corporation. In this role, she will guide strategy, build partnerships, and ensure the work remains grounded in what residents have shared matters most to them.

This structure allows us to continue serving Northwest Dayton broadly, while also providing focused, neighborhood-level coordination where deeper investment can support long-term progress.

What This Means for the Community

We will continue our long-standing work in resident engagement, cradle-to-career programming, and wraparound services across the Hope Zone. RISE Northwest adds another layer of support by concentrating attention in five neighborhoods where sustained focus can lead to visible, measurable change that residents can feel in their everyday lives.

Looking Ahead

This next chapter reflects what we have heard directly from the community and how we are choosing to move forward together.

As Omega CDC and RISE Northwest work hand in hand, our mission remains the same: supporting stronger families, healthier neighborhoods, and a future shaped by the people who call Northwest Dayton home.

Want to learn more about how Omega CDC and RISE Northwest are working in Northwest Dayton? Visit our programs and neighborhood initiatives to see how residents, partners, and community leaders are shaping the future together.