About Us
The Northeastern Pennsylvania Organizing Center (NEPAOC) promotes civic engagement through service and volunteerism in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Region. This center is developing as a model for the PA Organizing Network, which consists of connected regional centers across the state of Pennsylvania.
Our overall goals are implementing basic Economic Human Rights in the economy, governance, and social policy of our region. We seek to make concrete improvements in the lives of Pennsylvania residents, and our approach provides a wide-ranging base for the development of a clear role in the formation of public policy.
The NEPAOC now functions as a volunteer based organization that focuses on three main areas of development:
- Service Outreach and Connection We recognize that service based public outreach has been the most effective way to connect with our community. Our NEPA Service Network expanding the relationship between volunteers, civic organizations, service agencies, and many companion networks statewide. Our center refers and supports members of our community facing need. Additionally, we provide meeting and screening space, multimedia training, and logistical support for such organizations. We also sponsor cultural and social events such as art shows, movie screenings, presentations and speakers in order to strengthen relationships between NEPA residents.
- Media Mobilizing Project The NEPAOC and PA Organizing Network have been instrumental in devloping the Media Mobilizing Project (MMP). With locations in NEPA and Philadelphia, the MMP uses electronic media (video, web, etc.) to build a community media infrastructure that supports our movement. This project allows for the distribution of documentaries, news reports, organizational updates, and educational materials in an effective way. The right of free speech means little without the right to be heard. We believe the Media Mobilizing Project (MMP) must connect to, and influence, the economic and social entities which affect everyday life. By sharing our own stories for the purposes of education, outreach, and organizing, we can coalesce the issues facing our community, and build the networks necessary to positively address the challenges we face.
- Civic Engagement The Community Board is our Public Policy vehicle, open to all residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Membership on the Board encourages open dialogue between residents. When we connect residents with each other in this way, we offer them the opportunity to learn how to influence civic, educational, and business interests in the community to the benefit of all.
Please, feel free to contact us for more information.