ABOUT THE DWA

The Downtown Waxhaw Association (D.W.A) is an accredited program of the North Carolina Main Street and the National Main Street Center™.

We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that champions the growth & success of Downtown Waxhaw and its small business community.

We serve as advocates & a leading resource for downtown, working with key stakeholders to preserve its small-town charm while promoting its economic vitality.

Our values and priorities.

We take pride in our mission to connect people, places, and ideas. By forging strategic partnerships and implementing innovative programs, we bring people together with the places and experiences that have shaped our past and will shape our future.
We believe that you take care of places that you love. We value our cultural heritage and protect our shared history, traditions, and craftsmanship that make Downtown Waxhaw special. We are dedicated to championing the revitalization of downtown, with historic preservation at the heart of our efforts.
We remain focused and committed to our vision for downtown. As steadfast advocates, we champion its growth and vitality, promoting it as a wholesome, welcoming destination for all.
As the cultural and economic center of Waxhaw, downtown is where memories are created, and new ideas are born. We create environments that foster connectivity, collaboration, and innovation, where our community comes together to shape a brighter future.

OUR ORIGINS & ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The Downtown Waxhaw Association was established in 2022 to expand & enhance the Main Street program in Downtown Waxhaw. We are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Downtown Waxhaw.

Expanding the Main Street program not only provides greater support & resources to our small business owners & residents, but also alleviates the burden on local government by sharing the responsibility of strengthening downtown.

It also establishes a streamlined approach to enhance efficiency & effectiveness in working with the entire community - delivering real results that benefit the entire community.

Our organization is led by a nine-member board of directors, which includes the Town Manager, two commissioners, and six community members. This ensures representation of various stakeholders.

As a quasi-public-private partnership, the Town of Waxhaw’s Downtown Director serves as a crucial link between the non-profit board and the municipality.

This partnership structure, embraced by almost half of North Carolina Main Street communities, promotes collaboration and ownership among business owners, volunteers, and the community, fostering a strong sense of ownership & building consensus for downtown's vision.

The mission of the DWA is to be the leading resource to preserve, promote, and bridge the past, present, and future of Downtown Waxhaw.

Downtown Waxhaw, with its small-town charm, is the cultural and economic center of the community. It is the premier destination in Union County to experience genuine craftsmanship, create shared memories, and build economic opportunities.

MEET THE TEAM

DWA STAFF MEMBERS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Ashley moved to Waxhaw in May 2021 from Kansas City, MO, but grew up in Eastern North Carolina. Since 2015, she has dedicated her career to Main Street Programs and historic commercial district revitalization.
Her expertise in downtown renewal and passion for championing small businesses have found an ideal home in Downtown Waxhaw! Driven by the local business community's contagious energy, Ashley is dedicated to creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive.

Ashley lives in the area with her husband, Rob, and dog, Andy. Her hobbies include watching movies, cooking, baking, bartending, and playing board games.

DOWNTOWN COORDINATOR
Alara brings a unique perspective to downtown stewardship as a long-time Waxhaw resident, corporate professional, former local business owner, and mother of two. Her 12-year corporate media and marketing experience provides a solid foundation in strategic brand management, complemented by 5 years as owner of Siela Boutique in Downtown Waxhaw.
Alara's deep roots in Waxhaw fuel her passion for creating a space that truly serves the needs of residents and small businesses. Her experience as a local entrepreneur and former Secretary of the Downtown Waxhaw Association equips her with a comprehensive understanding of the local market and the unique challenges faced by small businesses in the area.
As Business Development Coordinator, she is responsible for strengthening connections between stakeholders, turning shared visions into reality, and establishing effective communication tools.
Alara lives in Waxhaw with her husband Patrick, two children (a CATA senior and a Parkwood Middle School eighth-grader), and two dogs.