NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania (NeighborWorks) recently accepted a contribution from Coterra Energy, in the amount of $266,600 through the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development's Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). This contribution marks the single largest NAP contribution NeighborWorks has ever received and has significantly bolstered our efforts to improve communities across Northeastern Pennsylvania.
The contribution will support the Beautiful Blocks Program for 2024. Beautiful Blocks, which is jointly sponsored by NeighborWorks, the City of Scranton, the City of Carbondale and the City of Pittston, provides matching grants of up to $1,000 to each member of a group of at least five residents to help them make exterior improvements to their homes in their respective municipalities. Grants are awarded annually through a competitive application process.
This contribution is particularly significant as it is funding the entirety of the Beautiful Blocks Pittston program in its first year, enabling us to expand this successful initiative to a new city. Coterra's contribution is also funding neighborhood revitalization work in Carbondale. The funding has been pivotal in completing critical projects such as the demolition of vacant and deteriorating properties, providing grants to homebuyers to help them improve the exterior of their homes and developing the Carbondale Core Neighborhood Plan.
"NeighborWorks is extremely grateful for Coterra's exceptional commitment and partnership," said Shane Powers, President & CEO of NeighborWorks. "This significant contribution underscores the power of collaboration in driving meaningful community development. Coterra's support has enabled us to expand the Beautiful Blocks Program to Pittston and continue vital revitalization work in Carbondale, making a tangible difference in our communities."
Coterra Director of External Affairs George Stark, said, "We at Coterra are proud to support the vital work of NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania through the Neighborhood Assistance Tax Credit Program. NeighborWorks revitalizes neighborhoods where our employees, contractors, and vendors live and creates opportunities for individuals and families to improve their lives through quality housing and financial guidance. This investment not only assists those in need but also enhances the communities we call home."
Altogether, contributions from Coterra and its affiliates were the single largest NAP contribution NeighborWorks has ever received and accounted for the bulk of its total NAP contributions this year. Coterra’s unwavering support underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in community development and highlights the positive impact of corporate contributions on local revitalization projects. NeighborWorks is deeply grateful for Coterra's remarkable generosity and commitment to community development.
Photo Caption: George Stark, Director, External Affairs, Coterra Energy; Shane Powers, President and CEO, NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania; Bill desRosiers, External Affairs Manager, Coterra Energy.
