I am grateful to the Neighborhood Houses’ Board of Directors for this opportunity to assist an organization for whom I have great respect as they prepare for the next phase in their dynamic history. I have known the work of Neighborhood Houses for many years, partly in my former position as a Vice President of Partnerships at ARCHS, where we funded both the early childhood and after school programming. I would like to publicly acknowledge the vision and leadership that Rev. Eugene Bartell ably provided throughout his 12 years as Executive Director and am honored to serve in this interim.

Since my arrival, my respect for the mission of Neighborhood Houses has deepened. It is one thing to observe from afar, but another to be right here and see the positive impact we have on children and their families. I have had the opportunity to meet many of the children of Neighborhood Houses, and it has been a gift to see firsthand what a vital resource we are to the wonderful families of the City of St. Louis. The children and families we serve are beneficiaries of outstanding services that are delivered with care, compassion, humor and skill.

With summer camp in full swing and the next school year just around the corner, I hope you will take great pride in knowing that your continued support provides meaningful assistance to hundreds of children who otherwise would face daunting life challenges. We are grateful to all of those who work in collaboration with us to make our services possible.

I am delighted to be part of the momentum and will cherish my time together with a great staff, dedicated board and supportive agencies and funders as we move Neighborhood Houses forward.

I wish you and your families a good and safe summer.

Laura Lambrix, Ed. D.
Interim Executive Director