Willmore City Community Association (WCCA) has been serving the Willmore City neighborhood since 1976, when it was established as the Willmore City Heritage Association (WCHA) by a group of dedicated residents committed to preserving one of Long Beach's oldest and most historic neighborhoods.

At a time when historic homes across California were disappearing to redevelopment, local advocates recognized the architectural significance and cultural value of the Willmore City neighborhood surrounding Drake Park. They believed the area's historic character deserved to be protected and that preservation could strengthen both the neighborhood and the community that called it home.

In its early years, WCHA focused on historic preservation through neighborhood meetings, educational programs, home tours, museum exhibits, clean-up efforts, and advocacy campaigns. Volunteers encouraged homeowners to restore rather than replace historic properties, helping residents appreciate the rich history and unique architecture that defined Willmore City.

These efforts had a lasting impact. The organization played a pivotal role in the creation of the Drake Park Historic District, the first officially designated historic district in Long Beach. WCHA also successfully advocated for neighborhood improvements, including the installation of pedestrian-friendly acorn streetlights and the preservation and relocation of several historic homes. Its work became a model for historic preservation throughout Long Beach and helped inspire the creation of additional historic districts across the city.

As the neighborhood's needs evolved, so did the organization. Recognizing that a thriving community requires more than preserving its past, the Willmore City Heritage Association expanded its mission and became the Willmore City Community Association (WCCA). While historic preservation remains an important part of its identity, WCCA now focuses on building a stronger, healthier, and more connected community for everyone who lives, works, and visits Willmore City.

Today, WCCA serves as the neighborhood's community-building organization, bringing residents together through grant-funded programs, family events, neighborhood beautification projects, public safety initiatives, youth engagement, volunteer opportunities, and partnerships with local nonprofits, schools, businesses, and government agencies. Signature programs—including free pet wellness clinics, back-to-school celebrations, holiday events, community cleanups, and neighborhood gatherings—reflect the organization's ongoing commitment to improving quality of life while fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Nearly 50 years after its founding, the Willmore City Community Association continues to honor its rich history while embracing the future. Through preservation, advocacy, service, and collaboration, WCCA remains dedicated to strengthening the Willmore City neighborhood and ensuring it remains a vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming community for generations to come.