Founded in 2013 as the Chad Brown Alumni Association (CBAA), which later became recognized as North End Outreach (NEO), the organization is a collective of former residents from the Chad Brown Housing Projects and surrounding neighborhoods. Its members, each having undergone transformative personal journeys, embrace their pasts with humility and openness. Their shared experiences enable them to serve as authentic and relatable leaders within the community.
The concept for NEO/CBAA originated from casual conversations at a local barbershop, where a group of men identified an opportunity to give back to the community that had shaped them. Operating with modesty, the organization does not seek recognition or the spotlight. Instead, its true reward lies in the genuine gratitude expressed by the individuals and organizations it serves.
The mission of NEO/CBAA is centered on the well-being of children and seniors, guided by principles of mentorship, dialogue, and positive action. Over the years, the organization has mentored youth through its Right Way and ALPHA’s mentorship programs, supported local community initiatives, and organized annual events such as the Turkey Drive, Back-to-School celebrations, and the infamous Christmas Party in Chad Brown Housing Authority. Although NEO/CBAA does not engage directly in political activity, it takes pride in collaborating with those who share a commitment to fostering positive change and community development.
Looking toward the future, NEO/CBAA is focused on expanding its outreach efforts, with plans to extend its impact beyond the North End to serve the broader city and state. Through sustained collaboration and community engagement, the organization aims to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of those it serves.