North End Community Improvement Collaborative

NECIC: Transforming Mansfield's North End Since 2006

About Us

In 2006, community leaders and residents of Mansfield’s North End came together with a shared mission: to tackle the significant challenges facing their neighborhood, from economic decline to increasing violence. This collective determination laid the groundwork for the creation of the North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC), a community development corporation rooted in resilience, empowerment, and an asset-based approach.

NECIC has consistently focused on harnessing the rich diversity and strengths of the North End. Through comprehensive resident-driven surveys and community feedback, NECIC developed its first Community Economic Development Plan. This has evolved into the 2024 Neighborhood Platform, a comprehensive roadmap that outlines priorities in Land Use, Housing, Economic Development, Education, Community Spaces, Public Infrastructure and Transit, and Health and Safety. This platform guides our mission, ensuring our work aligns with the voices and aspirations of the community.

Learn more about the Neighborhood Platform here.

Our Path to a Thriving Community

Our 2024 Neighborhood Platform identifies 7 key priorities essential for fostering a stronger, more vibrant North End. 

1. Land Use

Promote balanced zoning and redevelopment to enhance livability, ensuring vacant properties are transformed into opportunities for new housing and innovation.

                                           Continue targeted demolitions. Demolitions such as this property at 502 Woodland Avenue improve the look of a neighborhood and make way for new development.

An example of new housing constructed on the North End.

2. Housing

Advocate for affordable, quality housing and targeted demolitions while preventing displacement and gentrification to maintain the North End’s character.

The NECIC Urban Farm at 311 Bowman St

3. Economic Development

Strengthen local businesses, support minority and women-owned enterprises, and foster job creation for a sustainable economy.

2024 Summer Manufacturing Institute Camp organized by NECIC, the Regional Manufacturing Coalition and EPIK

4. Education

Support educational partnerships and initiatives that uplift children and prepare them for lifelong success, focusing on the unique needs of North End students.

5. Public Infrastructure/Transit
Improve streets, sidewalks, and transit access to create a safer, more connected neighborhood, prioritizing projects like the B&O Bike Trail connection.

                                                             Aging sewer systems and broken sidewalks in the North End

Rendering of the proposed Community Impact Center

6. Community Spaces

Develop and maintain spaces that bring residents together, such as parks and community centers, fostering engagement and a sense of belonging.

Since 2021, there have been 21 shootings in Mansfield that have resulted in 24 fatalities. 

7. Health and Safety

Address violence, expand healthcare access, and reduce health disparities to build a community where residents thrive physically and mentally.

Be Part of the Change

Your donation, big or small, plays a vital role in helping NECIC fulfill its mission to "To improve the quality of life and economic landscape of the North End". 

This year, we’re focusing on three main projects- Our NECIC Urban Farm, North End Small Grants Program, and Phase 1 of our Community Impact Center. To learn more check out our featured campaigns below