MANSFIELD, Ohio – Deanna West-Torrence passed the torch of executive director at the North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC) to Col. Michael J. Howard, who will begin his term starting Jan. 1, 2015.
Howard has big plans for NECIC.
He listed three goals he hopes to accomplish in the near future as executive director: to continue to improve housing in the north end of Mansfield; to advocate for community organizing; and to continue with the community gardening initiatives headed by Community Garden/Local Foods Program Coordinator Jean Taddie.
Howard noted he intends to maintain the nonprofit’s focus.
“Our focus is the north end. So that’s where we have to start trying to get those smaller successes. And if it morphs into something bigger that other communities want to emulate, then absolutely. It’s all about the community at large,” said Howard.
NECIC’s mission “is to improve the quality of life for North End residents by identifying, supporting, and connecting local and regional assets and advancing community economic development in Mansfield’s North End.” The nonprofit started in 2007 under the direction of Deanna West-Torrence.
One way Howard plans to make that happen is by continuing to be an advocate for community organizing in collaborative efforts. A specific effort will be to immerse himself in the faith-based community.
“One of the most important structures and pillars in communities is the church. We need to try to reinvigorate our commitment to our spiritual selves. That’s an important part, and if you don’t have that part, I just don’t see us having much of a success,” said Howard.
The colonel has served at the 179th Airlift Wing since 1987, first as communications flight commander. Col. Howard is currently the vice wing commander.
He lives in Ontario and has three children with his wife, Taren Howard. He said his time in the Air Force has instilled in him an unshakable work ethic that he plans to operate under while at NECIC.
“The Air Force has its own core values. Integrity is the first and one that I take seriously. I’m going to work with integrity in everything that I do. And then there’s service before self, so this will be my service to the community. I am giving back. And the other is excellence in all we do,” said Howard.
Originally from Youngstown, Howard said a community-oriented lifestyle is one he grew up with. He learned the importance of a connected neighborhood at an early age. Howard has served on a number of boards in the community, and noted he believes in making the community a better place to live.
“The way that I was brought up, it’s important that you give back some of the blessings that have been given to you. And a lot of people have helped me along the way…I think it’s important to do, that communities pull together,” shared Howard.
West-Torrence, who has moved to Greenville, South Carolina, will maintain a position with NECIC as Director of Strategic Development.
For more information on NECIC and to know more about how to donate to the organization, visit their website or call 419-525-3101.
