Fresno West Coalition for Economic Development (FWCED) started as a group of concerned residents who united to bring attention to the needs of the West Fresno community. The five-year effort of the residents under the leadership of the late Deacon Irwin Foster along with Myser Keels, Joyce Hunter, Harland Kelly, Reverend T.J. Caldwell, and Reverend J.D. Adams culminated in December 1999 with the opening of the Kearney Palms Shopping Center. The center is fully occupied with restaurants, clothing stores, and a variety of local small businesses and anchored by FoodMaxx and Rite Aide. Centrally located in the shopping center is the Irwin Foster Police Sub Station.
Today, Fresno West Coalition for Economic Development is a growing community development corporation committed to facilitating economic and social change in West Fresno. The Coalition continues its commitment to improve the economic well being of the people who live in Southwest Fresno through access to quality employment and business development.
The staff, under the direction of the Board of Directors, maintains an effective role of advocacy by coordinating activities that address community issues and improve public services.
FWCED initiates business programs that create employment opportunities, stimulate entrepreneurship and encourages business expansion. In addition, the Coalition provides services and programs that develop affordable housing opportunities and engage local residents and other community organizations to promote self-sufficiency and stability.
