Arts & Culture
Making meaningful cultural experiences more accessible to the community.
Building community · Creating opportunity
Empowering People.
Strengthening Communities.
Through cultural enrichment, education, community inclusion and development, Wanida CDC works to create opportunities for people and families to thrive in Canton and Stark County.
Our areas of focus
Community begins with opportunity.
We believe thriving communities are built when people have opportunities to participate, contribute, learn and connect.
Education & Opportunity
Encouraging learning, engagement and pathways to personal growth.
Community Inclusion
Creating spaces and activities where more people can participate and belong.
Community Development
Supporting initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods and local connections.
Community connections
People and neighborhoods are at the heart of our mission.
From conversations across generations to young people caring for their neighborhoods, these are the kinds of connections and opportunities WCDC seeks to encourage.
Connecting across generations
Building relationships, listening to neighbors and making room for every generation to participate.
Young people making a difference
Encouraging service, teamwork and pride in the neighborhoods we share.
Illustrative images representing WCDC’s community development vision; not photographs of completed WCDC programs.
About Wanida CDC
Rooted in community.
Focused on opportunity.
Wanida Community Development Corporation (WCDC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Canton, Ohio, focused on community development and meaningful opportunities for individuals and families.
Our work emphasizes cultural experiences, education, inclusion and community connections. We see the arts as a powerful way to bring neighbors together, encourage dialogue and celebrate the stories that shape our lives.
Leadership & Community Vision
Experience rooted in service.
Community progress grows from relationships, partnerships and a shared commitment to opportunity.
Community Leadership
Vincent E. Watts
Vincent E. Watts brings decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, community development, education and organizational management to the mission of Wanida Community Development Corporation.
Previously President and CEO of the Greater Stark County Urban League, he has worked across community organizations, education and business to help connect people with opportunities and strengthen partnerships throughout Stark County.
His leadership perspective reflects a commitment to cultural enrichment, inclusive community participation and practical pathways for individuals and families to thrive.
Connect with WCDC →
Featured event
FENCES 2027
Meet our community production partner: Leila Green Educators’ Council →
Experience August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play Fences live on stage. A compelling story of family, responsibility, dreams and the choices that shape generations.
Canton Cultural Center
1001 Market Avenue N, Canton, OH 44702
| Saturday, January 9, 2027 | 7:00 PM |
| Sunday, January 10, 2027 | 3:00 PM |
| Friday, January 15, 2027 | 7:00 PM |
| Saturday, January 16, 2027 | 7:00 PM |
| Monday, January 18, 2027 Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 3:00 PM |
General Admission: $20
Purchase Tickets on Zeffy →Ticket purchases are completed on Zeffy. Performance details are subject to organizer updates.
Get involved
Join us in building a stronger community.
Attend FENCES 2027, support our initiatives, or partner with Wanida CDC to expand cultural, educational and community opportunities in Canton and Stark County.
Stay connected
Contact Wanida CDC
General inquiries
For questions about Wanida CDC, community initiatives and partnership opportunities:
FENCES 2027
Interested in sponsorship, tickets or supporting the production?