About Us

Mission

The Northeast Neighborhood Association (NENA) serves the residents of York City, PA in the area roughly bounded by these streets: George, Market, Sherman and Arch. NENA strives to improve the quality of life for residents through youth, hunger, and educational initiatives.

DEI Statement:

The Northeast Neighborhood Association, Inc., NENA, is committed to creating an environment that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive; where residents, partners, vendors, and board members are treated with respect and dignity. For the purposes of this statement, Diversity is a range of human differences including but not limited to; race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation/identity, familial status, age, disability and socio-economic status; Equity is a process that ensures all people have the opportunity to contribute, develop, and grow despite historical, structural, legislative, racial, and socio-economic inequities; and Inclusion is valuing, respecting, and encouraging the full participation of each individual in the life and leadership of the organization

We are an organization that celebrates the rich diversity of the Northeast Neighborhood of York, PA. We will not tolerate discrimination, biases, harassment, or bullying of any kind. We will strive to make every person welcome, respected, and valued, in a safe and inclusive environment.

As an organization and Board of Directors, we agree to be guided by these principles and pledge that they will be reflected in our vision, mission, strategic planning, programming, governance, and board composition. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion extends to our staff, our volunteers, our members, and programs we develop and support.

History

NENA was established as a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization in 1996, operating a food pantry located in the Pine Street Center at the corner of East Philadelphia and North Pine Streets. In 2005 – 2006, the Children’s Home of York began occupying this building. At the same time, the local United Methodist Church Conference dissolved the charter of Christ’s Hope Community Church and gifted its building at 216 Chestnut St to the Northeast Neighborhood Association. This property has operated as NENA’s home up through the present. Chrystal Sexton-McEachin, NENA's first director, was a neigbhorhood resident who was instrumental in founding both Christ Hope's Church and the Northeast Neighborhood Association. For more than 20 years, she worked tirelessly for her community. Regretfully, she lost a brave battle with cancer in April 2017.

Staff

Darlene Leonard is the current Director of Community Services. A York native who graduated from the University of Maryland, Darlene worked for 23 years as a case manager for the Community Progress Council in York. She also served for 12 years on the Advisory Council for York County Children, Youth and Families and for 51/2 years on the board for Communities That Care of York County. Dedicated to both her family and her community, Darlene divides her time between NENA and providing childcare for young family members.

Darlene is generally available on Mondays from 9 am – 2 pm and Tuesday through Thursday from 4 – 9 pm. To reach her, please phone Chrystal’s Place at 717-845-5641 and leave a message or send her an email at dleonard@nenayork.org.

Board of Directors

Edwin Sexton, Chair

Marilyn Hake, Co-Chair

Michael Boyd, Secretary/Treasurer

Gladys Achenbach

Ron Benenson

Kathy Brubaker

Regina Carter

Chastity Frederick

Jade Frederick

Elizabeth Lauer

Pat Steidler

Larry Taylor

The official registration and financial information of the Northeast Neighborhood Association, Inc. may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.