Melrose Plaza Places Food, Banking, Education, Health Services Under Single Roof

The following post is a paid sponsorship from Melrose Plaza. If your business or organization is interested in sponsorships or advertisements in The Rambler, you can learn more here.

Melrose Plaza is officially open, bringing to life a vision championed by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys for opportunity, wellness and empowerment throughout the Roanoke Valley. 

Located at the corner of Melrose Avenue and 24th Street NW, Melrose Plaza represents a significant investment in neighborhood revitalization, addressing long-standing gaps in access to health services and economic opportunities. With Henrietta's Café and Wellness on Melrose now open, the History Wall drawing visitors, and The Excel Center welcoming its first class of adult students on Aug. 25, the plaza is bustling with activity and purpose. 

While situated in Northwest Roanoke, the plaza welcomes residents from across the region to use its services. Whether you need banking services, want to continue your education or plan to browse the market while learning about local history, you'll find what you're looking for here. 

"We know that improving access to education, health services and economic resources can change the trajectory of a community," said Donna Davis, director of community engagement for Goodwill Industries of the Valleys. "Melrose Plaza brings those opportunities together in one welcoming space designed for everyone." 

Market on Melrose opened last November, providing fresh produce and grocery essentials in an area previously underserved by food retailers. Bank of Botetourt followed in May 2025, opening a full-service branch with free financial coaching. The recent addition of Wellness on Melrose means that residents can now access care that is designed to reduce chronic conditions and increase life expectancy, all close to home. 

Melrose Plaza also houses The Excel Center, Virginia's first adult high school. Run by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, The Excel Center helps adults earn high school diplomas while providing crucial support services like on-site childcare and transportation assistance. This innovative approach to adult education and workforce development has attracted interest from communities statewide. 

Beyond practical services, Melrose Plaza honors the neighborhood's rich history through its newly unveiled History Wall. This permanent exhibit celebrates local leaders and community changemakers whose contributions have shaped Northwest Roanoke, giving visitors a chance to connect with the area's deep roots and ongoing legacy. The area's history will be further celebrated with the future opening of the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, which is returning to Northwest Roanoke through its relocation to Melrose Plaza.  

The plaza stands as proof of what collaborative effort can achieve. Community members, local organizations, city officials, funding partners and businesses came together around a shared conviction: strategic investment in people and places creates lasting change. 

By addressing key factors that influence community health, from education and employment opportunities to social connections and healthcare access, Melrose Plaza demonstrates how thoughtful development can build stronger, more equitable neighborhoods. 

For current hours, services, and more information about Melrose Plaza, visit melroseplazaroanoke.com. Stop by and see what's happening — you're always welcome. 

If your business or organization is interested in sponsorships or advertisements in The Rambler, you can learn more here.