Help Turn a Historic Church into a Home for Hope

In the small coal town of Keystone, West Virginia, an old brick church stands quietly — a beautiful piece of history waiting for a second chance.

The Whittico Memorial Presbyterian Church, named after Matthew Thomas Whittico (1866–1939), was once a cornerstone of faith and community. Whittico was a visionary leader who founded The McDowell Times, a groundbreaking newspaper dedicated to “the interest of the Negro Race — His Social and Political Rights.” His voice gave power to the people, bridging divides and inspiring generations.

Today, his church needs our help.

The building has been entrusted to We Are The Teachers, Inc. (WATT) — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on youth development and empowerment in McDowell County. Our dream is to restore the Whittico Church and transform it into a community and youth development center — a place where young people can learn, grow, and lead.

This center will provide:

After-school and leadership programs

Mentorship and skill-building workshops

Cultural and community events that bring people together

McDowell County’s youth deserve a safe place to dream and build their future — and we can make it happen together.

Your donation will help fund renovations, equipment, and programs that will bring life back to this historic space: every dollar, every share, every bit of support matters.

✨ Help us breathe new life into Whittico Memorial Church — where history inspires hope.

Donate today and be part of rebuilding something extraordinary for the youth of McDowell County.