SPOKANE, Wash. — The Northeast Community Center (NECC) announced the retirement of Executive Director Dave Richardson after nine years at the helm.
During his tenure, Richardson launched The ZONE youth space, started a workforce training program and expanded the center to include a MultiCare Behavioral Health Clinic.
The center was recently selected as Bank of America’s 2025 Neighborhood Builder, receiving a $50,000 grant. The award provides workforce training and executive development for the new executive director and an emerging leader within NECC.
“It’s a launch pad for our new leadership here at Northeast Community Center,” said Jene Ray, the new executive director for NECC.
Ray accepted the check from Bank of America alongside Richardson.
The two have worked together at the NECC for years. Ray used to oversee resident-facing programming and services.
“We’re going to use these funds over the next year for training and development so that we can understand financial sustainability,” Ray said.
Since 2004, Bank of America has invested more than $350 million through the Neighborhood Builders program to local communities. The program has supported over 4,000 community leaders with leadership development and strengthened their local efforts.
“We’re just so proud of the ability to impact local leadership,” said Lauren Murray, a Bank of America representative. “And we know that if you train the leader, that will go so much further than just providing a grant.”
Current priorities at NECC, shaped by resident input, include employment support, workforce housing and childcare advocacy, youth programs, mental health services and addressing basic household needs.
The Northeast Community Center remains a vital resource for the Northeast Spokane community as it approaches its 45th year.
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