The Partnership Network (TPN) is a network of organizations that mobilizes the community development network to create the conditions for change and solve complex community challenges at the macro, meso, and micro levels of our communities. 

TPN Member Story #2: NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania

NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania is a non-profit organization with the mission of financial empowerment that promotes homeownership and stable communities in Western Pennsylvania. They offer free counseling, homebuyer education and financial literacy courses designed to help individuals and families achieve their dreams.

Colin Kelley is the Executive Director at NeighborWorks. In the following Q&A, he speaks about their experience participating in TPN.

“It’s a cliché, but we are stronger together than we are alone.”

-Colin Kelley

Q: Why did your organization decide to be a part of The Partnership Network? 

A: Communication, cooperation and trust among organizations in Pittsburgh’s community development sector were severely lacking when Neighborhood Allies first approached NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania to be a part of this effort. Through this lens, the system was broken and TPN offered a path to finding a fix. We jumped in with both feet.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of being in The Partnership Network?

A: The trust among participating agencies and their leadership has experienced a quantum leap forward.

Q: How has The Partnership Network impacted your organization?

A: A greater awareness of TPN members’ community-facing activities and strategic goals has strongly influenced decision-making, both short- and long-range, at NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania. These decisions are based on how we can complement each other’s work, rather than how we can protect our “turf” and preserve our resources.

Q: What would you tell other organizations about the value of The Partnership Network?

A: It’s a cliché, but we are stronger together than we are alone.

Q: What do you hope for The Partnership Network to accomplish in the year ahead?

A: To move from planning to action. The activities of the past two years have been absolutely essential as we built the network of partners. Now it is imperative that we focus on the delivery of coordinated services to the communities and organizations most in need.

For more information on The Partnership Network, visit our website or contact Stephanie Chernay at stephanie@neighborhoodallies.org