3 minute read
Darlene Leonard | The Convener
BY BRITNEY WALKER | COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR
Deeply rooted in faith, family, and compassion for her fellow person, Darlene Leonard has been a shining example of how to lead with love in the York community.
She has a long history of what she refers to as “purpose work” and currently serves as Director of Community Services with the Northeast Neighborhood Association. It’s a role that comes quite naturally as it is an overflow of all the things she already loves doing. “We can always do better, so we have to find an avenue to do better. Every connection is an opportunity to do something better,” she shares.
With about 20 volunteers Darlene runs Chrystal’s Place, a food and clothing pantry named for the legacy of her late sister who served as NENA’s Director for 20 years. The organization’s current space, at 216 Chestnut Street in the City of York, was formerly a church gifted by Asbury Church. In addition to free clothing and food, Chrystal’s Place also provides small appliances and household supplies to families in need throughout the Northeast Neighborhood as well as the County of York.
Averaging 2,500 non-food items a month, and countless food provisions for families, Darlene and her team are making their mark. To help connect neighbors with each other and to community groups, NENA hosts numerous events throughout the year such as an Easter Egg Hunt, an annual block party for National Night Out, as well as a Breast Cancer Awareness Night. There is a so a pro ram o ere in partnership with Goode K-8 nancia iteracy c asses an a host o other family centered activities and resources. NENA also serves as the managing entity for a community garden, located behind Chrystal’s Place, allowing residents to grow fresh produce.
Originally organized by Asbury Church, NENA’s earliest mission was to establish a church presence, increase participation, enhance educational opportunities for children, and to provide food in the community. Darlene and her team continue this legacy daily with a smile.
When asked what she wants her legacy to be, the answer was simply: “When I walk past you, I want you to feel the love of God.” Being born into a family of love, Darlene’s strong foundation allows the love that she has to overflow into our community and make it a better place for all who cross her path.
