Our History: The 1960s, '70s & '80s
In the 1960s, the composition of the neighborhood began to change, as minorities such as African Americans and Hispanics began to populate the area.
In the atmosphere of racial and social ferment of the '60s, members of minority groups were actively struggling to correct some of the historic inequities of American society, forcing people to face up to their responsibilities to help correct the situation. West End was up to facing the challenge.
In response to the social changes, West End again mirrored its services to the needs of the people. West End adopted the "multi-service center" approach to social problems, engaging in a wide array of activities and services. Staffing the center reflected the changes and, with new federal funding, young, creative and enthusiastic professionals joined West End to develop and administer programs that characterized the development of the federal antipoverty efforts.
In the 1970s and '80s, West End Neighborhood House began to take the shape it holds today. Federal employment and training programs, a presumed answer to the welfare problems, began at West End, and crisis alleviation, full day childcare, tutoring and housing programs also were initiated. Today, through Welfare Reform initiatives, West End is again leading Delaware's social services in helping families and individuals achieve self-sufficiency. Go to next history page.
Our History:
1880s * WWI * Great Depression * 1940s and '50s * Today