We Rise: Filling the Old West End with Hope

In 2022 I, John Howard, as a neighborhood resident, built the "I ♥ OWE" sign at the corner of Delaware & Glenwood. What began as a simple expression of neighborhood pride quickly became a beloved Old West End landmark. Every spring during Festival season, neighbors and visitors alike stop to photograph themselves with it, share it on social media, and celebrate what makes our community special.

Following the tragic mass shooting during this year's Old West End Festival, artist Rob Morrison will be adding two simple words to the display:

"We Rise!"

The addition strikes a chord. What was once a symbol of pride became a symbol of resilience, healing, and unity.

I'm launching this fundraiser to produce and distribute free "We Rise" yard signs throughout the Old West End and surrounding community. Four hundred more signs of hope.

Our Goal

A contribution of $350 produces approximately 100 yard signs. Our initial goal is to place 400 signs in the yards of residents who want to display this message of hope and solidarity. These will be provided freely.

What Happens If We Exceed Our Goal?

Once enough funds have been raised to meet sign-production demand, all additional proceeds will be donated to the Old West End Neighborhood Association to support its ongoing mission of building community, preserving neighborhood character, supporting events, and strengthening connections among residents.

Why This Matters

The Old West End has faced hardship before, and each time our community has come together stronger than before. The message "We Rise" is not about forgetting what happened. It's about choosing how we respond.

By placing these signs throughout the neighborhood, we can create a visible reminder that the Old West End remains a place of strength, compassion, and community.

Whether your donation helps place 10 signs, 100 signs, or 400 signs, you are helping spread a message that belongs to all of us:

We grieve together. We heal together. We rise together.

Thank you for helping us fill the Old West End with hope.

*this is a private fundraiser by John Howard to benefit the Old West End Association, but is not affiliated with them.